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Adenovirus type 19 keratoconjunctivitis in Canada
Abstract:
We describe an outbreak of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis occurring in Montreal during the winter of 1974. Adenovirus type 19 was the only virus isolated. We confirm the presence of type 19 adenovirus in Canada; it produces severe keratoconjunctivitis. The incubation period, method of spread and clinical findings resemble those seen in outbreaks of type 8 EKC. The prevalence of adenovirus type 19 in the population of Canada is unknown. Although some object to the use of the term EKC for infection caused by adenoviruses other than type 8, we believe that EKC should be regarded as an entity requiring virus isolation and antibody determination to identify the adenovirus type responsible for it.
Insights
An adenovirus type 19 outbreak caused severe epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) in Montreal. This study confirms adenovirus type 19 in Canada, noting its similar symptoms to type 8 EKC.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) is a contagious viral eye infection.
- Outbreaks are often caused by specific adenovirus serotypes.
- Adenovirus type 8 has historically been the primary cause of EKC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an outbreak of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis in Montreal.
- To identify the specific adenovirus serotype responsible for the outbreak.
- To discuss the implications of non-type 8 adenoviruses causing EKC.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of patients during the 1974 Montreal outbreak.
- Virus isolation from affected individuals.
- Serological testing to confirm adenovirus type.
Main Results:
- Adenovirus type 19 was the sole virus isolated during the outbreak.
- The clinical presentation, including incubation period and spread, mimicked type 8 EKC.
- This confirmed the presence and pathogenicity of adenovirus type 19 in Canada.
Conclusions:
- Adenovirus type 19 can cause severe epidemic keratoconjunctivitis.
- The term EKC should encompass infections caused by various adenovirus types, not exclusively type 8.
- Accurate diagnosis requires virus isolation and antibody determination to identify the specific adenovirus type.