Immuno-virological Characterization of Severe H1N1v Influenza Infection in Bronchoalveolar Lavage

Immuno-virological Characterization of Severe H1N1v Influenza Infection in Bronchoalveolar Lavage in Patients Requiring Mechanical Ventilation in Intensive Care Unit

The influenza A/H1N1v pandemic virus causes severe pneumonia that can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome and death even in healthy young individuals. The respective roles of viral replication, bacterial infection and immune alterations of the host during such severe influenza H1N1v infection need to be clarified in order to optimize patients care. In this context, we aim to study immune and virological parameters in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid during severe influenza A/H1N1v infection with pulmonary involvement in intensive care unit. Results will be correlated to bacterial or viral pulmonary co-infections and to peripheral blood immune and virological parameters.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Suspected influenza A/H1N1 infection
• Diffuse bilateral pneumonia <96h with acute lung injury or respiratory distress syndrome
• Invasive or non-invasive ventilation in intensive care unit
• Age > 13

Exclusion Criteria:

• Other cause identified of acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome
• Contraindicated bronchoalveolar lavage