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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

An In vitro Model to Study Immune Responses of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
09:01

An In vitro Model to Study Immune Responses of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection

Published on: December 10, 2013

Human rhinovirus causes severe infection in preterm infants

Renée O van Piggelen1, Anton M van Loon, Tanette G Krediet

  • 1Department of Neonatology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands.

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|November 26, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Severe human rhinovirus (HRV) infection poses a significant risk to preterm infants, often necessitating respiratory support. This study highlights HRV as a cause of severe respiratory distress in neonatal intensive care unit populations.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Virology

Background:

  • Human rhinovirus (HRV) is a common respiratory pathogen.
  • Severe HRV infections are increasingly recognized in vulnerable populations.
  • Preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) may be at higher risk for severe outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical presentation and outcomes of severe human rhinovirus infections in a cohort of infants.
  • To identify risk factors and common clinical features associated with severe HRV infection in neonates.
  • To emphasize the potential severity of HRV disease in preterm infants.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case series of 11 infants with severe HRV infection.
  • Diagnosis confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on nasopharyngeal aspirates.
  • Clinical data including gestational age, birth weight, respiratory support, and radiologic findings were collected.

Main Results:

  • Eleven infants, predominantly preterm (82%), experienced severe HRV infection.
  • The majority of infections (78%) occurred within the NICU setting.
  • All infants presented with respiratory distress requiring a median of 6 days of respiratory support.
  • Radiographic findings included perihilar streakiness, atelectasis, focal consolidation, and hyperinflation.

Conclusions:

  • Human rhinovirus (HRV) can cause severe respiratory illness in preterm infants.
  • Preterm infants, particularly those in the NICU, are susceptible to severe HRV infections.
  • Prompt diagnosis and respiratory support are crucial for managing severe HRV cases in neonates.

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