Abstract
After allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), immune reconstitution occurs gradually. The risk for infections and specific pathogens during this period is related to the extent and type of immune deficiency. The presence of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) increases the risk for infections with encapsulated bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae. Persistent defects in cell-mediated and humoral immunity in the months to years following HSCT increase the risk for viral infections (e.g., cytomegalovirus and respiratory viruses). Long-term HSCT survivors also have an increased risk for fungal pneumonia (e.g., Aspergillus spp., Pneumocystis jirovecii). Therefore, prophylaxis and preemptive treatment of opportunistic infections is of critical importance in the setting of chronic GVHD and ongoing immunosuppressive therapy to prevent morbidity and mortality. As the immune system recovers, it is also important to re-immunize against childhood illnesses and to receive the seasonal influenza vaccine.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | Blood and Marrow Transplantation Long Term Management |
Subtitle of host publication | Prevention and Complications |
Publisher | Wiley Blackwell |
Pages | 106-115 |
Number of pages | 10 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781118473306 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781118473405 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 9 2013 |
Keywords
- Allogeneic
- Graft-versus-host disease
- Hematopoietic stem cell transplant
- Late infection
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)