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Targeted next-generation sequencing confirms rabies in a patient with unknown exposure: a case report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This report describes a confirmed rabies case with no clear exposure history. A 68-year-old female was hospitalized due to chest tightness and shortness of breath, subsequently developing typical symptoms including agitation, photophobia, and hydrophobia, requiring transfer to the ICU. The family denied any animal bite history, and physical examination revealed only superficial marks on the left knee. Probe-capture targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) detected 279 rabies virus sequences, confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The patient ultimately succumbed to circulatory and respiratory failure after the family withdrew life support. This case demonstrates that probe-capture tNGS can serve as an effective tool for diagnosing rabies in living patient without typical exposure using BALF samples.

Source: Frontiers in Medicine

DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2026.1766261

Authors: Runqi Li, Chenmiao Jin, Zhongqi Zhang, Chen Zhang, Xinlong Chen

Institutions: Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University

Language: English

Topic: Rabies epidemiology and control

Subfield: Virology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801