Renal transplantation and predisposition to opportunistic infections.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Infections represent a significant source of morbidity and mortality after kidney transplantation in children. We review recent advances in epidemiology, assessment, prevention and treatment for several different infections.

RECENT FINDINGS: Infections, such as bacterial urinary tract infection or opportunistic viral infection remain common, may be increasing and represent a large proportion of hospitalization. Extended antiviral agent use reduces the incidence of cytomegalovirus disease but its efficacy to reduce Epstein-Barr virus disease remains controversial. Human herpesvirus-6 and hepatitis E virus represent new infections to keep in mind. Ureteral stenting increases the rate of early UTI. Several new vaccines are now available, but rates of complete vaccination pretransplant are low.

SUMMARY: Infections remain a critical posttransplant issue associated with significant medical burdens. Emerging data on associated risk factors, assessment of and treatment for infections provide clinicians with new knowledge.