Varicella-Zoster Virus-Induced Hepatitis in a Liver Transplant Recipient: A Case Report
S Acar1, G Gencdal2, H Kirimlioglu3
1Department of Gastroenterology and Organ Transplantation Center, Sakarya University School of Medicine, Sakarya, Turkey.
Transplantation Proceedings
|April 15, 2019
Summary
Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection, though rare after liver transplants, can cause severe hepatitis. Prompt antiviral treatment is crucial for recovery in immunocompromised patients.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Transplantation Immunology
Background:
- Solid organ transplantation (SOT) recipients face significant mortality and morbidity from infections.
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections are uncommon in SOT patients but pose serious risks.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old male liver transplant (LT) recipient developed acute hepatitis and shingles 7 months post-transplant.
- Elevated liver function tests prompted investigation into the cause of hepatic dysfunction.
Findings:
- VZV infection was diagnosed as the cause of hepatitis in the LT recipient.
- Antiviral therapy led to normalization of liver function tests and resolution of symptoms.
Implications:
- VZV-induced hepatitis is a rare but potentially fatal complication in immunocompromised individuals.
- Early diagnosis and prompt antiviral treatment are essential for managing VZV hepatitis in transplant patients.
- Highlights the importance of monitoring for opportunistic infections in SOT recipients.
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