You are in: eMedicine Specialties > Pediatrics: General Medicine > Infectious Disease Rhinovirus InfectionArticle Last Updated: Oct 10, 2007AUTHOR AND EDITOR INFORMATIONAuthor: Robert W Tolan Jr, MD, Chief of Allergy, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Saint Peter's University Hospital; Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine Robert W Tolan, Jr, is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, American Society for Microbiology, American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Infectious Diseases Society of America, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, Phi Beta Kappa, and Physicians for Social Responsibility Coauthor(s): Mai Ngoc Nguyen, MD, Staff Physician, Department of Pediatrics, Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles; James D Korb, MD, Program Director, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Orange County Editors: José Rafael Romero, MD, Director of Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program, Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Combined Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Creighton University/University of Nebraska Medical Center; Mary L Windle, PharmD, Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Editor, eMedicine.com, Inc; Larry I Lutwick, MD, Director, Division of Infectious Diseases, Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Health Care System, Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of New York at Downstate; Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine; Russell W Steele, MD, Professor and Vice Chairman, Department of Pediatrics, Head, Division of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Author and Editor Disclosure Synonyms and related keywords: common cold, nasopharyngitis, rhinovirus infection, RV infection, upper respiratory infection, URI, lower respiratory infection, LRI, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, ICAM-1, nasal discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing, throat irritation, coronaviruses, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus, RSV, adenovirus INTRODUCTIONBackgroundRhinoviruses (RVs) are small (30 nm), nonenveloped viruses that contain a single-strand RNA genome within an icosahedral (20-sided) capsid. RVs belong to the Picornaviridae family, which includes the genera Enterovirus (polioviruses, coxsackieviruses groups A and B, echoviruses, numbered enteroviruses, parechoviruses) and Hepatovirus (hepatitis A virus). Approximately 101 serotypes have been identified. This article focuses on the common cold because it is most frequently associated with RV. Nasopharyngitis, croup, and pneumonia, which are uncommonly caused by RV, are also briefly discussed. RV plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of otitis media and asthma exacerbations. Although incidence and prevalence are high, most cases are mild and self-limited. PathophysiologyRV can be transmitted by aerosol or direct contact. The primary site of inoculation is the nasal mucosa, although the conjunctiva may be involved to a lesser extent. RV attaches to respiratory epithelium and locally spreads. The major human RV receptor is intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). The natural response of the human defense system to injury involves ICAM-1, which aids the binding between endothelial cells and leukocytes. RV takes advantage of the ICAM-1 by using it as a receptor for attachment. In addition, RV uses ICAM-1 for subsequent viral uncoating during cell invasion. Some RV serotypes also up-regulate ICAM-1 expression on human epithelial cells to increase susceptibility to infection. The optimal temperature for RV replication is 33-35°C. RV does not efficiently replicate at body temperature. This may explain why RV replicates well in the nasal passages and upper tracheobronchial tree but less well in the lower respiratory tract. The incubation period is approximately 2-3 days. Viremia is uncommon. RV is shed in large amounts, with as many as 1 million infectious virions present per mL of nasal washings. Viral shedding can occur a few days before cold symptoms are recognized by the patient, peaks on days 2-7 of the illness, and may last as long as 3-4 weeks. A local inflammatory response to the virus in the respiratory tract can lead to nasal discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing, and throat irritation. Damage to the nasal epithelium does not occur, and inflammation is mediated by the production of cytokines and other mediators. Histamine concentrations in nasal secretions do not increase. By days 3-5 of the illness, nasal discharge can become mucopurulent from polymorphonuclear leukocytes that have migrated to the infection site in response to chemoattractants such as interleukin-8. Nasal mucociliary transport is markedly reduced during the illness and may be impaired for weeks. Both secretory immunoglobulin A and serum antibodies are involved in resolving the illness and protecting from reinfection. Coronaviruses, reinfections with parainfluenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are the most important of many other viruses that can cause common colds. Other viruses (eg, adenoviruses, influenza viruses) also can cause common colds but are more likely to cause acute nasopharyngitis and more severe respiratory infections. Mycoplasma pneumoniae can occasionally present with common cold symptoms before developing into more extensive respiratory disease. Other pathogens include Coccidioides immitis, Histoplasma capsulatum, Bordetella pertussis, Chlamydia psittaci, and Coxiella burnetii. Recent clinical studies indicate sinus involvement in common colds. Abnormalities on CT scan findings (eg, opacification, air-fluid levels, mucosal thickening) are present in adults with common colds that resolve over 1-2 weeks without antibiotic therapy. Despite what is reported in folklore, no good clinical evidence reports that colds are acquired by exposure to cold weather, getting wet, or becoming chilled. FrequencyUnited StatesCommon colds are most frequent from September to April in temperate climates. RV infections, which are present throughout the year, account for the initial increase in cold incidence during the fall and a second incidence peak at the end of the spring season. Colds that occur from October through March are caused by the successive appearance of numerous viruses, including parainfluenza, coronavirus, RSV, and influenza virus. Adenoviral infections occur at a constant rate throughout the season. Several studies demonstrate the incidence of the common cold to be highest in preschool and elementary school-aged children. An average of 3-8 colds per year is observed in this age group, with an even higher incidence in children who attend daycare and preschool. Because of the numerous viral agents involved and the many serotypes of several viruses (especially RV), younger children having new colds each month during the winter season is not unusual. Adults and adolescents typically have 2-4 colds per year. InternationalA seasonal increase in incidence during the winter months is observed worldwide. Mortality/MorbidityThe most common manifestation of RV, the common cold, is mild and self-limited. However, severe respiratory disease, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia, can rarely occur in infants. RaceNative Americans and Eskimos are more likely to develop the common cold and appear to have more frequent complications such as otitis media. These findings may be explained as much by environmental conditions (eg, poverty, overcrowding) as by ethnicity. AgeBecause antibodies to viral serotypes develop over time, the highest incidence is found in infants and young children. In addition, young children are more likely to have the frequent, close, personal contact necessary to transmit RV. Contrary to the experience of adults, children may also be more contagious due to having higher virus concentrations in secretions and longer duration of viral shedding. CLINICALHistoryRhinoviruses (RVs) cause or predispose to various upper respiratory infections (URIs) and lower respiratory infections (LRI), which are less common.
PhysicalPhysical characteristics of the common cold include the following:
CausesFactors that increase infection risk and severity are as follows:
DIFFERENTIALSAfebrile Pneumonia Syndrome Allergic Rhinitis Bronchiolitis Bronchitis, Acute and Chronic Human Metapneumovirus Influenza Parainfluenza Virus Infections Pertussis Pneumonia Respiratory Distress Syndrome Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection Sinusitis
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| Drug Name | Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) |
|---|---|
| Description | One of few NSAIDs indicated for reduction of fever. |
| Adult Dose | 200-400 mg PO q4-6h while symptoms persist, not to exceed 3.2 g/d |
| Pediatric Dose | 5-10 mg/kg/dose PO q6-8h, not to exceed 40 mg/kg/d or 2.4 g/d |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity; aspirin; active GI bleeding and ulcer disease |
| Interactions | Coadministration with aspirin increases risk of inducing serious NSAID-related adverse effects; probenecid may increase concentrations and, possibly, toxicity of NSAIDs; may decrease effect of hydralazine, captopril, and beta-blockers; may decrease diuretic effects of furosemide and thiazides; may increase PT when taking anticoagulants (instruct patients to watch for signs of bleeding); may increase risk of methotrexate toxicity; phenytoin levels may be increased when concurrently administered |
| Pregnancy | C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus |
| Precautions | Category D in third trimester of pregnancy; caution in congestive heart failure, hypertension, and decreased renal and hepatic function; caution in anticoagulation abnormalities or during anticoagulant therapy; caution in infants and young children; do not use in neonates secondary to CNS effects |
| Drug Name | Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Feverall, Tempra) |
|---|---|
| Description | Reduces fever by directly acting on hypothalamic heat-regulating centers, which increases dissipation of body heat via vasodilation and sweating. |
| Adult Dose | 325-650 mg PO q4-6h or 1000 mg tid/qid, not to exceed 4 g/d |
| Pediatric Dose | 10-15 mg/kg/dose PO/PR q4-6h, not to exceed 2.6 g/d |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity; known G-6-PD deficiency |
| Interactions | Rifampin can reduce acetaminophen analgesic effects; coadministration with barbiturates, carbamazepine, hydantoins, and isoniazid may increase hepatotoxicity |
| Pregnancy | B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals |
| Precautions | Contained in many OTC products, and combined use with these products may result in cumulative doses exceeding recommended maximum dose; caution parents regarding varying concentrations of OTC products |
These agents relieve runny nose, watery eyes, or other allergylike symptoms. They act by competitive inhibition of histamine at H1 receptor. This mediates wheal and flare reactions, bronchial constriction, mucous secretions, smooth muscle contraction, edema, hypotension, CNS depression, and cardiac arrhythmias.
| Drug Name | Brompheniramine (Dimetapp, Dimetane) |
|---|---|
| Description | Alkylamine antihistamine primarily used for treating allergic symptoms. |
| Adult Dose | Regular release: 4 mg PO q4-6h SR: 8 mg PO q8-12h; 12 mg PO q12h |
| Pediatric Dose | <6 years: 0.5 mg/kg/d PO divided q6-8h, not to exceed 6-8 mg/d 6-12 years: 2-4 mg/dose PO q6-8h, not to exceed 12-16 mg/d >12 years: Administer as in adults |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity; narrow-angle glaucoma; bladder-neck obstruction; concurrent use of MAOIs |
| Interactions | Potentiates effect of CNS depressants; MAOIs, sympathomimetics; propranolol |
| Pregnancy | B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals |
| Precautions | High blood pressure; heart disease; diabetes; thyroid disease; asthma; glaucoma |
These agents relieve congestion of nasal passages or sinuses.
| Drug Name | Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) |
|---|---|
| Description | Stimulates vasoconstriction by directly activating alpha-adrenergic receptors of respiratory mucosa. Also induces bronchial relaxation and increases heart rate and contractility by stimulating beta-adrenergic receptors. |
| Adult Dose | 60 mg q4-6h or 120 mg SR q12h, not to exceed 240 mg/d |
| Pediatric Dose | 6-12 years: 4 mg/kg/d PO divided q6h >12 years: 30-60 mg/dose PO q6-8h, not to exceed 240 mg/d |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity; severe anemia; postural hypertension or hypotension; closed-angle glaucoma; head trauma; cerebral hemorrhage |
| Interactions | Propranolol, MAOIs, and sympathomimetic agents may increase toxicity; methyldopa and reserpine may reduce effects |
| Pregnancy | B - Fetal risk not confirmed in studies in humans but has been shown in some studies in animals |
| Precautions | Hyperthyroidism; diabetes mellitus; prostatic hypertrophy; mild-to-moderate hypertension; arrhythmia; hyperglycemia |
| Drug Name | Phenylephrine nasal (Neo-Synephrine) |
|---|---|
| Description | Strong postsynaptic alpha-receptor stimulant with little beta-adrenergic activity; produces vasoconstriction of arterioles, which decreases congestion. |
| Adult Dose | 2-3 gtt or 1-2 sprays intranasally of 0.5% solution q4h |
| Pediatric Dose | 6-12 months: 1-2 gtt intranasally of 0.16% solution q3h prn 1-6 years: 2-3 gtt intranasally of 0.125% solution q4h prn 6-12 years: 2-3 gtt intranasally or 1-2 sprays of 0.25% solution q4h prn >12 years: 2-3 gtt intranasally or 1-2 sprays of 0.5% solution q4h |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity; pheochromocytoma and severe hypertension; acute pancreatitis; hepatitis; myocardial disease; severe coronary disease; peripheral or mesenteric vascular thrombosis |
| Interactions | Bretylium may potentiate action of vasopressors on adrenergic receptors, possibly resulting in arrhythmias; MAOIs may significantly enhance adrenergic effects, and pressor response may be increased 2- to 3-fold; guanethidine may increase pressor response of direct-acting vasopressors, possibly resulting in severe hypertension |
| Pregnancy | C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus |
| Precautions | Arrhythmia; hyperthyroidism; hyperglycemia |
These agents centrally or peripherally act (or combination of both) on cough reflex. Central-acting agents increase threshold of cough center in brain to incoming stimuli, whereas those acting peripherally decrease sensitivity of receptors in respiratory tract.
| Drug Name | Dextromethorphan (Robitussin, Delsym) |
|---|---|
| Description | Antitussive and/or expectorant that comes as single entity or in various cough and cold preparations in various combinations. |
| Adult Dose | Regular release: 10-30 mg PO q4-8h, not to exceed 120 mg/d SR: 60 mg PO bid |
| Pediatric Dose | 1-3 months: 0.5-1 mg PO q6-8h 3-6 months: 1-2 mg PO q6-8h 7 months to 1 year: 2-4 mg PO q6-8h 2-6 years: 2.5-7.5 mg PO q4-8h, not to exceed 30 mg/d 6-12 years: 5-10 mg PO q4-6h, not to exceed 60 mg/d >12 years: Administer as in adults |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity |
| Interactions | May decrease hypotensive effects of guanethidine; MAOIs significantly may enhance adrenergic effects |
| Pregnancy | C - Fetal risk revealed in studies in animals but not established or not studied in humans; may use if benefits outweigh risk to fetus |
| Precautions | High blood pressure or tachycardia; thyroid disorders; diabetes mellitus |
| Drug Name | Codeine |
|---|---|
| Description | For symptomatic relief of cough. Helpful for pain of intercostal muscle strain associated with cough. Binds to opiate receptors in CNS, causing inhibition of ascending pain pathways, altering perception and response to pain. |
| Adult Dose | 10-20 mg/dose PO q4-6h prn for cough, not to exceed 120 mg/d |
| Pediatric Dose | 1-1.5 mg/kg/d PO divided q4-6h prn |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity; children <2 y |
| Interactions | CNS depressants; TCAs may potentiate codeine effects; phenothiazine may antagonize analgesic effect; dextromethorphan may enhance analgesic effect |
| Pregnancy | D - Fetal risk shown in humans; use only if benefits outweigh risk to fetus |
| Precautions | Hypersensitivity reactions to other phenanthrene-derivative opioid agonists; respiratory diseases; severe liver and/or renal insufficiency |
These agents may decrease severity and duration (large doses not recommended for children).
| Drug Name | Ascorbic acid (Vita-C) |
|---|---|
| Description | Effect on cold severity and duration is still controversial. Vitamin C comes in various formulations. |
| Adult Dose | Dietary supplement: 50-200 mg/d PO Prevention and treatment of cold: 1-3 g/d PO |
| Pediatric Dose | Dietary supplement: 35-100 mg/d PO |
| Contraindications | Documented hypersensitivity; pregnancy, if large doses administered |
| Interactions | Decreases effects of warfarin and fluphenazine; increases aspirin levels |
| Pregnancy | A - Fetal risk not revealed in controlled studies in humans |
| Precautions | Prolonged high doses may cause renal calculi, especially in patients with diabetes |
Article Last Updated: Oct 10, 2007