Pediatric adenovirus pneumonia: clinical practice and current treatment

Graphical abstract In this review, we lay emphasis on the pathogenic mechanism, early recognition and treatment strategies of severe pediatric adenovirus pneumonia. The pathogenic mechanism of adenovirus is divided into three parts, direct damage to the target cells, inflammatory cytokines release and immune evasion of the virus. Indicators including age, clinical manifestations, imaging features and laboratory tests play an essential role in the early identification. Current treatment strategies are comprised of anti-viral drugs, respiratory support and bronchoscopy, continuous blood purification, immuno-regulation therapy and supportive care.