Susceptibility of solid organ transplant recipients to viral pathogens with zoonotic potential: A mini-review

Braz J Infect Dis. 2024 Mar-Apr;28(2):103742. doi: 10.1016/j.bjid.2024.103742. Epub 2024 Apr 23.

Abstract

A substantial number of zoonotic diseases are caused by viral pathogens, representing a significant menace to public health, particularly to susceptible populations, such as pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Individuals who have undergone solid organ transplantation frequently experience immunosuppression, to prevent organ rejection, and, thus are more prone to opportunistic infections. Furthermore, the reactivation of dormant viruses can threaten transplant recipients and organ viability. This mini-review examines the up-to-date literature covering potential zoonotic and organ rejection-relevant viruses in solid organ transplant recipients. A comprehensive list of viruses with zoonotic potential is highlighted and the most important clinical outcomes in patients undergoing transplantation are described. Moreover, this mini-review calls attention to complex multifactorial events predisposing viral coinfections and the need for continuous health surveillance and research to understand better viral pathogens' transmission and pathophysiology dynamics in transplanted individuals.

Keywords: Clinical outcomes; Immunosuppression; Solid organ transplantation; Transplantation failure; Virus; Zoonosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Susceptibility
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host*
  • Organ Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Risk Factors
  • Transplant Recipients*
  • Viral Zoonoses / transmission
  • Viral Zoonoses / virology
  • Virus Diseases / transmission
  • Virus Diseases / virology
  • Zoonoses / transmission
  • Zoonoses / virology