Title : A case of possible CMV pneumonia after liver transplantation and management of CMV infection

Abstract:

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection remains a leading cause of illness and death after liver transplantation (LT). According to current international guidelines, the two most effective strategies to prevent post-transplant CMV infection are antiviral prophylaxis and pre-emptive therapy. CMV-IgG serology is the standard tool for pre-transplant screening of both donors and recipients.

Because the clinical manifestations of CMV infection and disease are highly variable, clinicians must maintain a high level of suspicion, particularly during the first year after transplantation or in the setting of intensified immunosuppression. Optimizing outcomes depends on tailoring preventive and therapeutic strategies to each patient, balancing the risks of infection and disease with the degree of immunosuppression required.

Despite preventive measures, CMV disease can still develop in up to 50% of high-risk patients. The purpose of my presentation is to highlight the importance of CMV infection consultations both before and after liver transplantation. To illustrate this point, I will discuss a case of suspected CMV pneumonia following liver transplantation.