A Qualitative Study of Cytomegalovirus Awareness and Experience in Kidney Transplant Recipients

To assess the experiences of CMV among kidney transplant recipients in a single transplant centre, focusing on their awareness of CMV, the impact of the disease on their quality of life, and their perceived effectiveness of anti-CMV therapy.

We carried out semistructured interviews with 50 adult recipients who had undergone kidney transplantation within the last two years in our centre. Participants were divided into those who had experienced CMV (CMV group, n = 25) and those who had not (non-CMV group, n = 25). Data were collected and analysed using inductive qualitative methods, with embedded quantitative descriptive analysis.

Awareness of CMV was low, particularly among those who had not experienced the virus. 32% (n = 8) of the non-CMV group were aware of CMV, compared to 88% (n = 22) in the CMV group (p < 0.001). Most CMV-affected participants (78%) reported no symptoms, and the impact on mood and social life was minimal. CMV treatments were rated highly effective, with a preference for pre-emptive management. There was a strong consensus on the need for better patient education about CMV, with suggestions for more direct communication through healthcare professionals.

This study is the first to provide a comprehensive evaluation of CMV awareness and management from the perspective of kidney transplant recipients in the UK. We highlight a significant gap in CMV awareness among kidney transplant recipients, emphasizing the need for improved educational efforts. Enhanced patient education, particularly through multimedia patient educational tools, could bridge the knowledge gap and ensure better management of CMV in this population. These insights are vital for shaping future patient care strategies and could significantly impact clinical practice, particularly in post-transplant care.