Can Vaccine Prevent Herpes Zoster After Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation?

An investigational varicella zoster virus vaccine reduced the incidence of post-transplant herpes zoster.

Patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCTs) experience impairment of cellular immunity leading to high rates of herpes zoster (HZ). Prolonged treatment with antiviral medications is commonly used to prevent HZ, but optimal duration is poorly defined (Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2009; 15:1143, and Antiviral Res 2017; 140:10). In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind, manufacturer-sponsored study, investigators assessed the efficacy of an investigational irradiation-inactivated varicella zoster virus vaccine.

Adult participants received four doses of vaccine (n=560) or placebo (n=564). The initial dose was given prior to autologous HSCT and subsequent doses within 90 days post-transplant. The primary endpoint was t…

Reviewing Author

Daniel Kaul, MD

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNobelpharma; Pfizer

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Transplantation (Program Committee)

Daniel Kaul, MD

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNobelpharma; Pfizer

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Transplantation (Program Committee)

Can Vaccine Prevent Herpes Zoster After Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation?

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Reviewing Author