[Rotavirus infection in adults]

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Pathology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Rotavirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis, primarily in children.
• Adult rotavirus infections are less frequently reported but can be severe.

Observation:

• Eight adult patients aged 36-80 years were studied.
• Rotavirus was the primary diagnosis in 3 cases, often with co-existing conditions.

Findings:

• Rotavirus infection presented with acute onset and affected the small bowel's serous and mucous membranes.
• Commonly observed were serous peritonitis and potential systemic generalization to organs like the liver, heart, and kidneys.
• Histological examination showed characteristic nuclear damage, cellular enlargement, and bizarre cell shapes.

Implications:

• Rotavirus should be considered in adult mortality, especially with gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms.
• Understanding these pathological changes aids in diagnosing and managing severe adult rotavirus cases.