Adenovirus

Background

Microbiology

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

Epidemiology

• Transmitted by droplets or aerosol

Clinical Manifestations

• Common cause of upper respiratory infections (colds) in immunocompetent people
• Can also cause pharyngitis, pharyngoconjunctival fever, epidemic keratoconjunctivitis, acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, hepatitis, urethritis or genital ulcers (sexually-transmitted)
• In cellular immunodeficiency or neonates, can cause severe disease
  • Disseminated disease
  • Hemorrhagic cystitis in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients and children

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