[Underestimated infection - on the question of the human adenovirus pathogenicity factors.]

Human adenoviruses cause different organ infections of varying severity, from asymptomatic to severe cases with lethal outcome, that are registered everywhere. Detailed and focused study of factors predisposing to a severe course of infection is required. The literature contains information indicating the association of severe adenoviral respiratory diseases with certain types of adenovirus, primarily type 7. This review highlights the possible causes of increased pathogenicity of some types of adenovirus and their association with severe forms of infection. Pathogenicity factors include the ability of adenovirus to bind the specific cellular receptors, the formation of subviral particles, the interaction with blood proteins, in particular the coagulation factor X, as well as the features of the early genes E1A, E1B, E3, E4. In addition, the severity of the disease may be affected by the presence or absence of pre-existing antibodies specific to certain types of adenoviruses. Chronic diseases or immunosuppression also increase the risk of severe adenovirus infection. The information presented in this review may elucidate the pathogenesis of adenovirus infection, and help to develop new features for prevention and treatment.