Adenovirus infection is a risk factor for recurrent intussusception in pediatric patients

Background: Human adenoviruses are the most common pathogens to be isolated from cases of pediatric intussusception. However, the specific clinical characteristics of pediatric intussusception associated with adenovirus infection are poorly known. Methods: We reviewed the medical records of pediatric patients (≤18 years of age) with intussusception treated between January 2014 and December 2020. We enrolled patients with febrile episodes, 27 with and 29 without adenovirus infections (the latter serving as control group). The demographic data, clinical characteristics, and the diagnoses and management strategies were evaluated. Results: The adenovirus group exhibited a significantly longer febrile duration (4.3 ± 1.9 vs. 3.3 ± 1.1 days, p = 0.020) than the control group, with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.098 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.223–21.254, p = 0.025). The recurrence rates were 48.1% and 13.8% in the two groups (OR 5.804; 95% CI: 1.585–21.245, p = 0.008). Most adenoviruses were non-enteric (85.2%). Conclusion: Adenovirus-related intussusception is associated with a longer febrile period and a higher rate of intussusception recurrence. It is recommended that patients suspected of adenovirus-related intussusception should be observed for longer than others prior to discharge.