Transplantationstechnologien und Forschung

Ganciclovir Resistant Cytomegalovirus in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: An Update

Abstract

Chandandeep Takkar, Ann K Gamilla-Crudo and Pradeep V Kadambi

Ganciclovir-resistant cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is an emerging problem in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. Treatments such as foscarnet and cidofovir are fraught with serious side effects that may limit their use in this condition. The aim of this paper is to elucidate the mechanisms on how resistance occurs, when to suspect it clinically and what special tests are necessary to diagnose it. Based on recent literature, the paper also brings to light two medications, maribavir and leflunomide, which have been described to have anti-CMV activity.