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Human beta-herpesvirus interactions in solid organ transplant recipients
J C Mendez1, D H Dockrell, M J Espy
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|December 20, 2000
Summary
This study investigated beta-herpesviruses (CMV, HHV-6, HHV-7) in liver transplant patients. High viral loads were linked to CMV disease, with ganciclovir therapy effectively reducing viral loads.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Transplant Medicine
Background:
- Beta-herpesviruses, including cytomegalovirus (CMV), human herpesvirus (HHV)-6, and HHV-7, are common in transplant recipients.
- The interplay between these viruses and the development of CMV disease requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate the replication of CMV, HHV-6, and HHV-7 in liver transplant recipients.
- To determine the association between these beta-herpesviruses and CMV disease.
- To evaluate the response to antiviral therapy.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 33 liver transplant recipients without antiviral prophylaxis.
- Detection and quantification of CMV, HHV-6, and HHV-7 DNA.
- Analysis of the association between viral loads and CMV disease.
- Assessment of ganciclovir (Gcv) therapy on viral loads.
Main Results:
- CMV, HHV-6, and HHV-7 DNA were detected in 70%, 33%, and 42% of patients within 8 weeks post-transplant.
- Higher viral loads of CMV, HHV-6, and HHV-7 showed a significant association with CMV disease (P<.001, .022, .001, respectively).
- Ganciclovir therapy effectively reduced the viral loads of all three beta-herpesviruses.
Conclusions:
- CMV disease in liver transplant recipients is associated with the complex interaction of CMV, HHV-6, and HHV-7.
- Intravenous ganciclovir treatment is effective in reducing beta-herpesvirus loads.