Common and Rare Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases in Pediatric Transplant Recipients: A Comprehensive
1King's College Hospital, London, UK.
Pediatric Transplantation
|June 3, 2026
Summary
Infectious disease threats in pediatric transplant recipients (PTR) are shifting, with emerging pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 and multidrug-resistant organisms posing significant risks. Enhanced surveillance and vaccination are crucial for managing these evolving challenges in PTR.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Transplant Immunology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Established pathogens like cytomegalovirus and bacterial bloodstream infections remain critical concerns for pediatric transplant recipients (PTR).
- The infectious disease landscape in PTR has significantly evolved, with a growing prevalence of emerging and re-emerging pathogens over the past two decades.
- Factors such as multidrug resistance, novel viral threats (e.g., SARS-CoV-2), declining vaccination rates, and global changes contribute to increased infection risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current evidence on emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in pediatric transplant recipients.
- To synthesize information on bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens affecting this vulnerable population.
- To highlight the changing epidemiology and associated risks in pediatric transplant recipients.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in pediatric transplant recipients.
- Synthesis of current evidence on pathogen prevalence, clinical impact, and risk factors.
- Analysis of diagnostic advancements and global factors influencing infection trends.
Main Results:
- Increasing burden of multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi complicates treatment.
- Emerging viral threats, including SARS-CoV-2, are associated with severe outcomes in immunocompromised children.
- Resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases and emergence of rare pathogens (e.g., arboviruses, polyomaviruses) pose significant risks.
- Advances in diagnostics aid in identifying previously under-recognized infections.
Conclusions:
- Evolving infectious disease trends in PTR necessitate enhanced surveillance, vaccination strategies, and antimicrobial stewardship.
- Individualized prevention and treatment approaches are crucial for managing diverse and emerging pathogens.
- Global factors like climate change and travel expand pathogen distribution, requiring adaptive public health measures.
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