Usefulness of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in adenovirus 7-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND: Direct metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of clinical samples is an effective method for the molecular diagnosis of infection. However, its role in the diagnosis of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) of an unknown infectious etiology remains unclear. CASE SUMMARY: A 33-year-old man was admitted to our center for a cough and febrile sensation. Shortly after admission, the patient was diagnosed with ARDS and treated in the intensive care unit. Subsequently, chest computed tomography features suggested an infection. mNGS was performed and the results were indicative of an infection caused by adenovirus type 7. The patient recovered after receiving appropriate treatment. CONCLUSION: mNGS is a promising tool for the diagnosis of ARDS caused by infectious agents. However, further studies are required to develop strategies for incorporating mNGS into the current diagnostic process for the disease.