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Published on: November 6, 2012
Rotavirus enteritis in solid organ transplant recipients: an underestimated problem?
I Stelzmueller1, S Wiesmayr, B R Swenson
1Department of General and Transplant Surgery, Innsbruck University Hospital, Innsbruck, Austria.
Summary
Rotavirus (RV) infection can cause severe diarrhea in solid organ transplant recipients, particularly children. While often self-limiting, RV enteritis can prolong hospitalization due to fluid and electrolyte loss.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Transplantation Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Diarrhea is a significant complication in solid organ transplant recipients, associated with high morbidity and mortality.
- Rotavirus (RV) typically affects young children but can also cause severe diarrhea in immunocompromised adults.
- Investigating RV prevalence and outcomes in transplant patients is crucial for managing post-transplant complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Rotavirus (RV) infections in adult and pediatric solid organ transplant recipients.
- To analyze the clinical outcomes and characteristics of RV enteritis in this vulnerable patient population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis was conducted on solid organ transplant recipients diagnosed with RV-related enteritis.
- The study included patients with a minimum of one year of follow-up, spanning from 2000 to 2004.
- Data from a single center was analyzed to assess RV infection prevalence and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Rotavirus infection was identified in 1.5% (19/1303) of solid organ transplant recipients, with a higher prevalence in liver recipients (14/19).
- Pediatric liver recipients showed the highest infection rate (52%), while adult infections occurred during initial hospitalization or as late-onset cases.
- All RV infections were self-limiting but resulted in prolonged hospital stays due to severe fluid and electrolyte loss.
Conclusions:
- Rotavirus enteritis is a notable infection in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients.
- Adult solid organ transplant recipients are also susceptible to RV infections, necessitating clinical awareness and management strategies.
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