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Disseminated adenovirus serotype 31 infection in an immunocompromised host
Abstract:
Adenoviruses are ubiquitous organisms but only infrequently have been implicated as a cause of hepatitis and rarely as a cause of fatal disease. A fatal case of disseminated adenovirus serotype 31 infection is described. It occurred in a patient with severe combined immunodeficiency who received a fetal liver transplant and subsequently developed massive hepatic necrosis. To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first reported case of disseminated disease due to serotype 31.
Insights
Disseminated adenovirus serotype 31 infection, though rare, can be fatal in immunocompromised patients. This case highlights a fatal outcome in a patient with severe combined immunodeficiency following a liver transplant.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Adenoviruses are common viruses, but typically cause mild illness.
- Hepatitis is an infrequent complication of adenovirus infection.
- Fatal adenovirus disease is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A patient with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) underwent a fetal liver transplant.
- The patient developed a massive hepatic necrosis.
- Disseminated adenovirus serotype 31 infection was identified as the cause.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of disseminated adenovirus serotype 31 infection.
- The infection led to fatal massive hepatic necrosis in an immunocompromised host.
- Adenovirus serotype 31 can cause severe, disseminated disease.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential pathogenicity of adenovirus serotype 31 in immunocompromised individuals.
- Underscores the importance of considering adenovirus in transplant recipients with unexplained liver failure.
- Suggests a need for further research into adenovirus tropism and virulence in specific patient populations.