Adenovirus

From IDWiki

Background

Microbiology

  • Non-enveloped double-stranded DNA virus
  • Seven species with multiple serotypes

Epidemiology

  • Transmitted by droplets or aerosol, or fecal-oral or via vomitus

Clinical Manifestations

Gastroenteritis

  • Some serotypes are uncommon causes of viral gastroenteritis
  • Incubation period is 10 days
  • Usually no vomiting, but otherwise typical course of gastroenteritis
  • Lasts up to 2 weeks with serotypes 40 and 41

Diagnosis

  • Typically by PCR
  • May see smudge cells on histology (but not specific)

Management

  • Usually treated supportively
  • Only current effective treatment is cidofovir, indicated in severe or life-threatening disease