Parasitic infections in solid-organ transplant recipients

Curr Opin Organ Transplant. 2011 Dec;16(6):565-75. doi: 10.1097/MOT.0b013e32834cdbb0.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To provide an updated perspective of the most common parasitic infections occurring in solid-organ transplant (SOT) recipients.

Recent findings: Parasitic infections are an emerging problem in SOT programs and represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Transplantation in endemic areas - including medical tourism, international travel and migration - justify the necessity of considering parasitic infections in the differential diagnosis of posttransplant complications. Molecular techniques, such as PCR, may improve the diagnostic accuracy and help during the follow-up.

Summary: Parasitic infections are an uncommon but potentially severe complication in SOT recipients. An increase of donors emigrated from tropical areas and more posttransplant patients traveling to endemic areas have led to a rise in parasitic infections reported among SOT recipients. Transplant physicians should get familiar with parasitic infections and promote adherence to preventive measures in SOT recipients.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiparasitic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Endemic Diseases
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Organ Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Parasitic Diseases / diagnosis
  • Parasitic Diseases / drug therapy
  • Parasitic Diseases / epidemiology
  • Parasitic Diseases / parasitology*
  • Parasitic Diseases / transmission
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Antiparasitic Agents
  • Immunosuppressive Agents