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Infections in renal transplant recipients in Israel
Abstract:
A 5-year retrospective survey of infections following 258 renal transplants in 233 patients is reported from a large medical center in Israel. The most common sites of infection were the urinary tract, the surgical incision, and the lung. We recorded 157 episodes of bacteriuria, 75% during the first month following transplantation. In 24 patients, 25 episodes of bacteremia were documented, with gram-negative bacteria being the most commonly involved organism. Pneumonia was diagnosed in 36 patients and was associated with relatively high mortality. Cytomegalovirus was the most common single organism responsible for infection. Fatal rhinocerebral mucormycosis was observed in three patients and was the most common invasive fungal infection. Other serious opportunistic infections were seen only rarely. Infectious diseases were the most frequent cause of death (51.1%) among these patients.
Insights
This study analyzed 258 renal transplants, finding infections common, especially urinary tract and lung infections. Infectious diseases were the leading cause of death in transplant patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Transplant Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Renal transplantation is a life-saving procedure but carries a significant risk of post-operative infections.
- Understanding infection patterns is crucial for improving patient outcomes and survival rates in renal transplant recipients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze the incidence, types, and outcomes of infections following renal transplantation.
- To identify the most common infectious complications and causative agents in a cohort of renal transplant patients.
Main Methods:
- A 5-year retrospective survey was conducted.
- Data from 233 patients who underwent 258 renal transplants were analyzed.
- Infection sites, types, causative organisms, and mortality rates were recorded.
Main Results:
- The most frequent infection sites were the urinary tract (157 episodes), surgical incision, and lung (36 cases of pneumonia).
- Gram-negative bacteria were the most common cause of 25 bacteremia episodes. Cytomegalovirus was the most frequent single infectious organism.
- Invasive fungal infections, including fatal rhinocerebral mucormycosis, occurred rarely. Infectious diseases caused 51.1% of deaths.
Conclusions:
- Infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality after renal transplantation.
- Urinary tract infections, bacterial infections, and cytomegalovirus are significant concerns.
- Effective infection surveillance and management are critical for renal transplant recipients.