Prevention and Treatment of Cytomegalovirus Infections in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients

Abstract

Despite advances in prevention and treatment, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease remain an expected problem in solid organ transplant recipients. Because of the effect of immunosuppressing medications, CMV primary, secondary, and reactivated infection requires antiviral medications to prevent serious direct and indirect effects of the virus. Side effects and drug resistance, however, often limit the capacity of traditional antiviral therapies. This article updates the clinician on current and promising approaches to the management and control of CMV in the solid organ transplant recipient.

Keywords: CMV; CMV prophylaxis; CMV treatment; Cytomegalovirus; Herpesvirus infection; Solid organ transplantation.