Our Summary

This research paper discusses the issue of infections after organ transplants. In 2017, there were 34,770 organ transplants performed in the U.S. Although these surgeries are generally successful, the medication used to prevent the body from rejecting the new organ can sometimes weaken the immune system. This can leave the patient more vulnerable to certain types of infections. These are known as opportunistic infections, and they usually occur between a month and a year after the transplant. The paper specifically looks at these kinds of infections in people who have had an organ transplant.

FAQs

  1. How many organ transplants were performed in the U.S. in 2017?
  2. What kind of infections are organ transplant patients more vulnerable to?
  3. When do opportunistic infections usually occur after an organ transplant?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about organ transplant is to closely follow the prescribed medication regimen to prevent rejection of the new organ and to reduce the risk of infections. It is important to take all medications as directed, attend all follow-up appointments, and report any signs of infection, such as fever, redness, swelling, or pain, to your healthcare provider immediately. It is also important to practice good hygiene, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid contact with sick individuals to help prevent infections after organ transplant.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for organ transplant are those who have end-stage organ failure and have exhausted all other treatment options. This includes individuals with conditions such as chronic kidney disease, liver failure, heart failure, lung disease, and certain types of cancer.

Specific criteria for organ transplant eligibility may vary depending on the type of organ being transplanted and the individual’s overall health status. However, in general, patients must be in good enough health to undergo surgery and able to comply with the post-transplant medication regimen and follow-up care.

It is important for patients undergoing organ transplant to be aware of the risks associated with the surgery, including the potential for infections. Patients should work closely with their healthcare team to monitor for signs of infection and take steps to prevent them, such as practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with sick individuals, and getting recommended vaccinations.

Overall, organ transplant can be a life-saving treatment for individuals with end-stage organ failure, but it is important for patients to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimize them.

Timeline

Before the organ transplant:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a medical condition that requires an organ transplant.
  2. Patient undergoes extensive medical evaluations to determine if they are a suitable candidate for a transplant.
  3. Patient is placed on a waiting list for an organ donor.
  4. Patient receives notification that a suitable organ donor has been found.
  5. Patient undergoes the transplant surgery.

After the organ transplant:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for signs of rejection or complications.
  2. Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues to be monitored by medical professionals.
  3. Patient is prescribed immunosuppressant medication to prevent rejection of the new organ.
  4. Patient is educated on the importance of taking medication as prescribed and monitoring for signs of infection.
  5. Patient is advised to avoid certain activities and environments to reduce the risk of infection.
  6. Patient undergoes regular follow-up appointments with their medical team to monitor their progress.
  7. Patient may experience opportunistic infections between one month and one year after the transplant due to the weakened immune system.
  8. Patient may require additional treatment for these infections, including antibiotics or antiviral medication.
  9. Patient continues to be monitored for the rest of their life to ensure the success of the organ transplant and to manage any potential complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What precautions can I take to prevent infections after my organ transplant?
  2. What signs or symptoms of infection should I watch out for?
  3. How often will I need to see my doctor for check-ups and monitoring of potential infections?
  4. Are there any specific vaccines I should receive before or after the transplant to prevent infections?
  5. What medications will I be taking to prevent rejection of the new organ, and how might they affect my risk of infections?
  6. How can I maintain a healthy lifestyle to support my immune system post-transplant?
  7. Are there any specific dietary restrictions or recommendations to help prevent infections?
  8. How can I reduce my risk of exposure to infections in my daily life, such as avoiding certain activities or environments?
  9. What should I do if I suspect I have an infection after my transplant?
  10. Are there any additional resources or support groups available for transplant patients dealing with infections?

Reference

Authors: Kumar R, Ison MG. Journal: Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2019 Dec;33(4):1143-1157. doi: 10.1016/j.idc.2019.05.008. PMID: 31668195