A cluster of donor-derived Cryptococcus neoformans infection affecting lung, liver, and kidney transplant recipients: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Donor-derived infections (DDIs) are a very rare but potentially devastating complication of solid organ transplantation. Here we present a cluster of proven donor-derived cryptococcal infection in the kidney, liver, and lung recipients from a single donor. Remarkably, the onset of illness in the kidney and liver recipients occurred more than 8-12 weeks after transplantation, which is beyond the incubation period previously reported for donor-derived cryptococcosis. DDI should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of transplant recipients admitted with febrile illness, even when presenting beyond the first month post-transplant. Communication between reference laboratories, transplant centers, and organ procurement organizations is critical to improve outcomes.

Keywords: Cryptococcus; donor-derived infection; solid organ transplant.