Interstitial pneumonitis associated with human herpesvirus-6 infection after marrow transplantation

Lancet. 1991 Jul 20;338(8760):147-9. doi: 10.1016/0140-6736(91)90137-e.

Abstract

Severe interstitial pneumonitis in 2 marrow-transplant recipients was associated with human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) infection. The virus was repeatedly detected in respiratory specimens from 1 patient, and HHV-6-infected cells were shown in lung tissue from both patients by immunohistochemical staining. The infected cells were primarily intra-alveolar macrophages, although infected lymphocytes were seen. HHV-6 should be considered as a cause of unexplained lung disease in marrow-transplant recipients and other immunocompromised patients.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone Marrow Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid / microbiology
  • Female
  • Herpesviridae Infections / etiology*
  • Herpesviridae Infections / pathology
  • Herpesvirus 6, Human*
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Prospective Studies
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis / etiology*
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis / pathology