RSV-associated hospitalization in adults in the USA: A retrospective chart review investigating burden, management strategies, and outcomes

Background and Aims The burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in adults is of growing concern. This study was designed to quantify disease burden, treatment approaches, and outcomes associated with RSV infections in adult subpopulations, from prehospitalization to hospital discharge. Methods A retrospective chart analysis was conducted to collect patient-case data from hospitalized US adults (aged >18 years) with RSV infection during two RSV seasons. Patients were categorized into risk groups: comorbid lung disease, immunocompromised, older adults (aged >= 65 years), and other adults (aged <65 years). Physicians reported diagnosis, treatment choices including respiratory supportive therapy (oxygen and fluid supplementation), and outcome variables using a standardized online case form. Results The majority (277/379; 73%) of patients presented to the emergency room, with a mean age of 60 years. Once hospitalized, the median length of stay was 6.0 days (3.0-9.0), with disease severity having the greatest impact on duration of stay. No significant between-group differences in rates of patients requiring management in intensive care units were found (comorbid lung disease, 28%; immunocompromised, 36%; older adults, 26%; and other adults, 23%). Overall, respiratory supportive therapy was the most commonly used form of treatment. Antibiotics were administered in over half of all risk groups (comorbid lung disease, 61%; immunocompromised, 59%; older adults, 59%; and other adults, 51%). Patients usually required follow-up visits following discharge, with 10%-16% requiring skilled nursing care and approximately 25% requiring assistance from a social worker. Conclusion RSV in adult subpopulations, irrespective of age, is a significant burden to healthcare systems.

Automated summary

This study found that RSV infection in adult subpopulations poses a significant burden to healthcare systems, with disease severity having a significant impact on hospital stay duration. The majority of patients required respiratory supportive therapy, and antibiotics were widely used across all risk groups. There were no significant differences in ICU management rates between risk groups.