DNA viral infections complicating lung transplantation

Abstract

DNA viruses with potential to cause complications after lung transplantation include the human Herpesviridae family consisting of cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1, -2), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), human herpesvirus 6, 7, and 8 (HHV-6, -7, -8), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV); the Polyomaviridae family consisting of BK virus and JC virus; and the Adenoviridae family consisting of more than 50 adenovirus subtypes. This is a diverse group of viruses with equally diverse immediate and long-term impacts on allograft function and clinical outcomes following lung transplantation. This article discusses the individual pathogens, their epidemiology and clinical manifestations, as well as treatment and preventive strategies in this era of antiviral treatment regimens.