Management of infection in the post-cardiac-transplant patient

In reviewing our post-transplant experience with infection in 192 cardiac transplant patients, we have noticed a pattern. During the first month following transplantation, the patient seldom has an opportunistic infection, but is in danger of nosocomial infection (84 episodes in 57 patients). These include wound infection, and infections of the lungs, blood, and urinary tract. After the first month, and for the duration of the first year following transplantation, nosocomial infections become less common and opportunistic infections dominate (176 episodes in 111 patients). Although viruses are the most common opportunistic pathogens (100 infections in 111 patients), bacteria, fungi, and parasites are the most serious threats, especially when they affect the lungs. We relate our experience in prophylaxis, diagnosis, and treatment throughout the first year following transplant.