Herpes viruses in transplant recipients: HSV, VZV, human herpes viruses, and EBV

Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2010 Jun;24(2):373-93. doi: 10.1016/j.idc.2010.01.003.

Abstract

The herpes viruses are responsible for a wide range of diseases in patients following transplant, resulting from direct viral effects and indirect effects, including tumor promotion. Effective treatments and prophylaxis exist for the neurotropic herpes viruses HSV-1, HSV-2, varicella zoster virus, and possibly HHV-6. Antivirals seem to be less effective at prevention of the tumor-promoting effects of Epstein-Barr virus and HHV-8. Reduction in immunosuppression is the cornerstone to treatment of many diseases associated with herpes virus infections.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Herpesviridae Infections / epidemiology*
  • Herpesviridae Infections / mortality
  • Herpesviridae Infections / prevention & control
  • Herpesviridae Infections / virology*
  • Herpesvirus 1, Human / isolation & purification
  • Herpesvirus 2, Human / isolation & purification
  • Herpesvirus 3, Human / isolation & purification
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / isolation & purification
  • Herpesvirus 6, Human / isolation & purification
  • Herpesvirus 7, Human / isolation & purification
  • Herpesvirus 8, Human / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Transplantation*

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents