Infection in Kidney Transplantation
Though EBV only affects around 1% of kidney transplant patients, the impact of this virus can be devastating for these individuals. EBV is strongly associated with the development of posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD), which includes multiple disorders involving inappropriate B cell transformation. Patients who are R− and have increased levels of immunosuppression are at greater risk for PTLD. Diagnostic testing for PTLD varies depending on the location of the lesions. While evidence for EBV prophylaxis is lacking, antiviral agents such as acyclovir or valganciclovir may be used.18 The treatment of PTLD is also variable, and further research is needed; treatment should be initiated and monitored by the appropriate specialists.
Epstein-barr Virus
Though EBV only affects around 1% of kidney transplant patients, the impact of this virus can be devastating for these individuals. EBV is strongly associated with the development of posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD), which includes multiple disorders involving inappropriate B cell transformation. Patients who are R− and have increased levels of immunosuppression are at greater risk for PTLD. Diagnostic testing for PTLD varies depending on the location of the lesions. While evidence for EBV prophylaxis is lacking, antiviral agents such as acyclovir or valganciclovir may be used.18 The treatment of PTLD is also variable, and further research is needed; treatment should be initiated and monitored by the appropriate specialists.