Tong LX, Worswick SD. Viral infections in acute graft-versus-host disease: a review of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
J Am Acad Dermatol 2015;
72:696-702. [PMID:
25582535 DOI:
10.1016/j.jaad.2014.12.002]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
While immunosuppressive therapy for acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) advances, viral reactivation has been found to be an increasingly common complication in these patients. Dermatologists may often be consulted on inpatient services for evaluation.
OBJECTIVE
We investigated the literature for the role of viral infections in aGVHD and review the current evidence regarding management.
METHODS
Articles in the public domain regarding aGVHD, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, varicella zoster virus, hepatitis viruses, parvovirus B19, and respiratory viruses were included.
RESULTS
Dermatologic findings vary between different viral antigens, and some infections may be a marker for the development of aGVHD or worsen prognosis.
LIMITATIONS
The heterogeneous cohorts of the studies reviewed often preclude direct comparison between results.
CONCLUSION
The relationship between viral reactivation and aGVHD may be bidirectional and is worthy of further exploration. Additional studies are needed to determine appropriate prophylaxis and treatment.
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