Transplantation 1989 Aug;48(2):272-4

Cytomegalovirus infection in pediatric liver recipients. A virological surve
and prophylaxis with CMV immune globulin and early DHPG treatment

Dussaix E, Wood C
Laboratoire de Virologie, C.H.U. de BICETRE, Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France.

Abstract
From November 1985 to August 1987, 22 children underwent orthotopic liver
transplantation (OLT). Primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection was observed in 3
of 10 seronegative recipients (30%). It was severe in 2 cases, which were
treated successfully by a combination of DHPG and CMV hyperimmune globulin. From
September 1987 to August 1988, a virologic survey was undertaken. It enabled us
to take prophylactic measures and to make an early diagnosis of CMV infection,
permitting early antiviral treatment. During this period, 26 children received
liver grafts. Nine of 13 seronegative recipients (69, 2%) developed primary CMV
infection. Seven had received immunoprophylaxis and 8 were treated by DHPG. None
had severe disease and all improved rapidly