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Cytomegalovirus infection after intestinal transplantation in children

J Bueno1, M Green, S Kocoshis

  • 1University of Pittsburgh, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.

Insights

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease is common in pediatric intestinal transplant recipients, especially D+/R- cases, but treatment is effective. CMV infection did not impact long-term survival or graft success in these children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric transplantation
  • Infectious diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a significant concern in pediatric intestinal transplantation.
  • Understanding CMV disease epidemiology and risk factors is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease in pediatric intestinal transplant recipients.
  • To identify risk factors associated with CMV disease in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 41 pediatric intestinal transplant recipients from 1990 to 1995.
  • Stratification of cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease by donor (D) and recipient (R) serological status (D+/R-, D+/R+, D-/R+, D-/R-).
  • Assessment of treatment efficacy, mortality, graft survival, and associated risk factors, including steroid use.

Main Results:

  • Sixteen episodes of cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease occurred in 10 children (24.4%).
  • The D+/R- group experienced more extensive and persistent CMV disease.
  • Treatment resolved CMV disease in 93.3% of episodes; no CMV-attributable deaths occurred.
  • Cumulative steroid dose and history of steroid recycles were associated with CMV disease.
  • Patient and graft survival rates were similar across CMV disease status and D/R subgroups.

Conclusions:

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease in pediatric intestinal transplant recipients leads to substantial morbidity but does not increase mortality or graft loss.
  • High-risk D+/R- patients require careful monitoring, but outcomes remain favorable with effective treatment.
  • Steroid exposure is a significant risk factor for CMV disease development in this cohort.

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