Research from L. Fuks et al broadens understanding of herpes zoster virus

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March 2nd, 2009

   2009 MAR 2 -- "Although herpes zoster is a common complication of lung transplantation, the epidemiologic data are limited. The aims of the present study were to determine the incidence and clinical manifestations of herpes zoster in a large cohort of lung transplant recipients and to identify risk factors associated with its development," scientists in Israel report.

   "The files of all adult patients who underwent lung transplantation at a major tertiary medical center from January 2001 to December 2007 were reviewed. Data were extracted on background, transplant-related, and posttransplantation factors. The occurrence and clinical characteristics of all episodes of herpes zoster were recorded. Of the 198 lung transplant recipients, 23 had a herpes zoster infection, of whom 18 had herpes in a single dermatome. Disseminated cutaneous infection was documented in 4 cases (17%) and visceral involvement in 1. The median duration of follow-up was 34 months (range, 1 to 85 months). There were no recurrent infections. Postherpetic neuralgia was detected in 26% of cases. Antiviral prophylaxis, primarily for cytomegalovirus, was effective (during treatment) against herpes zoster. The incidence of herpes zoster was higher in patients treated with rabbit antithymocyte globulin. The occurrence of herpes zoster peaks between 12 and 36 months after lung transplantation. Additional immunosuppression may increase the risk," wrote L. Fuks and colleagues.

   The researchers concluded: "Further studies on preventive strategies against herpes zoster in this population are warranted."

   Fuks and colleagues published their study in Annals of Thoracic Surgery (Herpes Zoster After Lung Transplantation: Incidence, Timing, and Outcome. Annals of Thoracic Surgery, 2009;87(2):423-426).

   For additional information, contact M.R. Kramer, Rabin Med Center, Pulmology Institute, Beilinson Campus, IL-49100 Petah Tiqwa, Israel.

   The publisher's contact information for the journal Annals of Thoracic Surgery is: Elsevier Science Inc., 360 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010-1710, USA.

   Keywords: Israel, Herpes Zoster Virus, Herpesvirus, Lung Transplant, Organ Transplant, Surgery, Transplantation, Virology.

   This article was prepared by Hematology Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Hematology Week via NewsRx.com.

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