Human Metapneumovirus Infection in Adults as the Differential Diagnosis of COVID-19

Abstract

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory tract virus identified 18 years prior to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. Both viruses cause acute respiratory failure characterised by a rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs with clinical symptoms similar to those reported for other viral respiratory lung infections. HMPV, more generally known as childhood viral infection, causes mild and self-limiting infections in the majority of adults, but clinical courses can be complicated in risky groups and associated morbidity and mortality are considerable. Moreover, adults are not regularly screened for HMPV and the prevalence of adult HMPV infections in Turkey is unknown, with previous reports in the paediatric population. This should always be kept in mind during the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic, particularly when neurological complications are added to respiratory findings. In our study, two adult cases of HMPV pneumonia and encephalitis have been recorded.

Rational Use of COVID-19 Virological Tests in Intensive Care Unit

“…The factors contributing to a false-negative result should be clearly understood (Table 1) and should repeat the test within 24-48 h. [20] In cases when the second test is likewise negative, a non-COVID-19 diagnosis should be ruled out. [21] Antibody testing can help patients with a strong suspicion of COVID-19. The question of transmission risk and the safe period of self-isolation is raised by persistently or intermittently PCR-positive persons.…”