Preventing Cytomegalovirus Infection After Lung Transplantation

CMV infection occurred significantly less often with 12 months of valganciclovir prophylaxis than with 3 months.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most common opportunistic infection in allograft lung recipients, and its occurrence indicates a poor prognosis. In an industry-funded, multicenter, prospective, double-blind study, researchers examined whether extending anti-CMV prophylaxis from the conventional 3 months to 12 months would decrease the incidence and severity of CMV infection.

First-time lung recipients at risk for CMV infection (based on positive serologic status of donor or recipient) received open-label intravenous ganciclovir for ≤2 weeks, followed by open-label oral valganciclovir for 3 months. The 136 patients who completed this phase were randomized to receive oral valganciclovir or placebo for an additional 9 months.

CMV end-orga…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter