Abstract
Viral infections remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality following renal transplantation. The pediatric cohort is at high risk of developing virus-related complications due to immunological naiveté and the increased alloreactivity risk that requires maintaining a heavily immunosuppressive environment. Although cytomegalovirus is the most common opportunistic pathogen seen in transplant recipients, numerous other viruses may affect clinical outcome. Recent technological advances and novel antiviral therapy have allowed implementation of viral and immunological monitoring protocols and adoption of prophylactic or preemptive treatment approaches in high-risk groups. These strategies have led to improved viral infection management in the immunocompromised host, with significant impact on outcome.We review the major viral infections seen following kidney transplantation and discuss strategies for preventing and managing these pathogens.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 705-717 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Pediatric Nephrology |
Volume | 27 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - May 2012 |
Keywords
- Cellular immunity
- Cytomegalovirus
- Kidney transplantation
- Polyomavirus BK Epstein-Barr virus
- Quantitative DNA assays
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Nephrology
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health