Risk Factors Associated With Early Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Results From a Multinational Matched Case-Control Study

Novel intervention based on an individualized bundle of care to decrease infection in kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Infection remains a relevant complication after kidney transplantation (KT). A well-established strategy in modern medicine is the application of bundles of evidence-based practice in clinical settings. The objective of this study is to explore the application of a personalized bundle of measures aimed to reduce the incidence of infection in the first 12 months after KT.

METHODS

A single-center prospective cohort of 148 patients undergoing KT between February 2018 and September 2019 that received an individualized infection prevention strategy was compared to a preintervention cohort (n = 159). The bundle comprised a review of the patient's immunization history, infection risk by country of origin, screening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), antimicrobial prophylaxis, and immunological assessment. Individualized recommendations were accordingly provided at a scheduled visit at day +30 after transplantation.

RESULTS

The intervention cohort showed a higher compliance rate with the recommended vaccine schedule, screening for geographically restricted infections and LTBI, and intravenous immunoglobulin and vitamin D supplementation (p values <.001). The 1-year incidence rate of infection was lower in the intervention cohort (42.6% vs. 57.9%; p value = .037), as was the rate of infection-related hospitalization (17.6% vs. 32.1%; p value = .003) and the incidence of severe bacterial infection. There were no differences in graft rejection or mortality rates between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A multifaceted intervention, including a bundle of evidence-based practices, enhanced compliance with recommended preventive measures and was correlated with a reduction in the 12-month incidence of infection after KT.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in renal transplant recipients: A single-center experience

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the clinical features, early diagnostic methods, and therapeutic approaches for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients after renal transplantation (RT).

METHODS

We retrospectively examined 22 patients who were diagnosed with IPA post-RT and treated at our institution between 2005 and 2024.

RESULTS

Patients had an average age of 46.4 ± 9.4 years, with a predominance of men (72.7 %). The incidence of IPA after RT was 1.29 %. The median time of IPA onset after transplantation was 12 months. Fever was the predominant symptom (72.7 %), followed by cough and expectoration (31.8 %) and hemoptysis (13.6 %). Frequent computed tomography findings included consolidations (68.2 %) and cavities (45.5 %) with halo signs, multiple nodules, and air crescent signs. Neutropenia was noted in five patients, including one case of agranulocytosis. Impaired renal function was observed in 59.1 % of the cases. Serum 1,3-β-D-glucan and galactomannan (GM) assays were positive in 45.5 % of patients, with bronchoalveolar lavage fluid GM tests confirming IPA in 83.3 % of those tested. Next-generation sequencing confirmed Aspergillus infection in 11 patients. Ultimately, 68.2 % of the patients recovered, whereas 31.8 % succumbed to the infection, with the deceased demonstrating a significantly high rate of complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with IPA had high mortality rates. The symptoms of IPA after RT are usually nonspecific, making diagnosis very difficult. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid GM testing and next-generation sequencing proved relatively helpful as detection methods for IPA. Antifungal treatments should be initiated as soon as possible to avoid complications.

Risk Factors for Early Fungal Disease in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Invasive fungal infections are associated with high morbidity in solid organ transplant recipients. Risk factor modification may help with preventative efforts. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors for the development of fungal infections within the first year following solid organ transplant.

METHODS

We searched for eligible articles through February 3, 2023. Studies published after January 1, 2001, that pertained to risk factors for development of invasive fungal infections in solid organ transplant were reviewed for inclusion. Of 3087 articles screened, 58 were included. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model to evaluate individual risk factors for the primary outcome of any invasive fungal infections and invasive candidiasis or invasive aspergillosis (when possible) within 1 y posttransplant.

RESULTS

We found 3 variables with a high certainty of evidence and strong associations (relative effect estimate ≥ 2) to any early invasive fungal infections across all solid organ transplant groups: reoperation (odds ratio [OR], 2.92; confidence interval [CI], 1.79-4.75), posttransplant renal replacement therapy (OR, 2.91; CI, 1.87-4.51), and cytomegalovirus disease (OR, 2.97; CI, 1.78-4.94). Both posttransplant renal replacement therapy (OR, 3.36; CI, 1.78-6.34) and posttransplant cytomegalovirus disease (OR, 2.81; CI, 1.47-5.36) increased the odds of early posttransplant invasive aspergillosis. No individual variables could be pooled across groups for invasive candidiasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Several common risk factors exist for the development of any invasive fungal infections in solid organ transplant recipients. Additional risk factors for invasive candidiasis and aspergillosis may be unique to the pathogen, transplanted organ, or both.

Age difference of patients with and without invasive aspergillosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Invasive Aspergillosis (IA) is a life-threatening fungal disease with significant mortality rates. Timely diagnosis and treatment greatly enhance patient outcomes. This study aimed to explore the association between patient age and the development of IA, as well as the potential implications for risk stratification strategies.

METHODS

We searched National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) databases for publications until October 2023 containing age characteristics of patients with and without IA. A random-effects model with the application of inverse-variance weighting was used to pool reported estimates from each study, and meta-regression and subgroup analyses were utilized to assess sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

A systematic review was conducted, resulting in the inclusion of 55 retrospective observational studies with a total of 13,983 patients. Meta-analysis revealed that, on average, patients with IA were approximately two and a half years older (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.84-3.31 years; I2 = 26.1%) than those without the disease (p < 0.0001). No significant moderators could explain the observed heterogeneity in age difference. However, subgroup analysis revealed that age differences were more pronounced within particular patient groups compared to others. For example, patients with and without IA who had primary severe lung infections exhibited a greater difference in mean age than other patient cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research, such as individual patient data meta-analysis, is necessary to better understand the potential relationship between increasing age and the likelihood of IA. Improved risk stratification strategies based on patient age could potentially enhance the early detection and treatment of IA, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Isavuconazole for the Treatment of Invasive Mold Disease in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Multicenter Study on Efficacy and Safety in Real-life Clinical Practice

BACKGROUND

Isavuconazole has theoretical advantages over other mold-active triazoles for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis after solid organ transplantation (SOT). The available clinical experience, nevertheless, is scarce.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study including all adult SOT recipients with proven or probable invasive mold disease (IMD) that received isavuconazole for ≥24 h as first-line or salvage therapy at 10 Spanish centers between September 2017 and November 2021. The primary efficacy outcome was clinical response (complete or partial resolution of attributable symptoms and findings) by weeks 6 and 12. Safety outcomes included the rates of treatment-emergent adverse events and premature isavuconazole discontinuation.

RESULTS

We included 81 SOT recipients that received isavuconazole for a median of 58.0 days because of invasive aspergillosis (n = 71) or mucormycosis (n = 10). Isavuconazole was used as first-line (72.8%) or salvage therapy due because of previous treatment-emergent toxicity (11.1%) or refractory IMD (7.4%). Combination therapy was common (37.0%), mainly with an echinocandin or liposomal amphotericin B. Clinical response by weeks 6 and 12 was achieved in 53.1% and 54.3% of patients, respectively, and was more likely when isavuconazole was administered as first-line single-agent therapy. At least 1 treatment-emergent adverse event occurred in 17.3% of patients, and 6.2% required premature discontinuation. Daily tacrolimus dose was reduced in two-thirds of patients by a median of 50.0%, although tacrolimus levels remained stable throughout the first month of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Isavuconazole is a safe therapeutic option for IMD in SOT recipients, with efficacy comparable to other patient groups.

Invasive Aspergillosis after Renal Transplantation

Over 95,000 renal transplantation procedures were completed in 2021. Invasive aspergillosis (IA) affects about 1 in 250 to 1 in 43 renal transplant recipients. About 50% of cases occur in the first 6 months after transplantation; the median time of onset is nearly 3 years. Major risk factors for IA include old age, diabetes mellitus (especially if prior diabetic nephropathy), delayed graft function, acute graft rejection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cytomegalovirus disease, and neutropenia. Hospital construction, demolition activities, and residential refurbishments also increase the risk. Parenchymal pulmonary infection is the most common (~75%), and bronchial, sinus, cerebral, and disseminated disease are less common. Typical pulmonary features of fever, dyspnea, cough, and hemoptysis are seen in most patients, but 20% have non-specific general features of illness. Non-specific infiltrates and pulmonary nodules are the commonest radiological features, with bilateral disease carrying a worse prognosis. Bronchoscopy for direct microscopy, fungal culture, and Aspergillus antigen are the fastest means of establishing the diagnosis; a positive serum Aspergillus antigen presages a worse outcome. Standard therapy includes voriconazole, isavuconazole, or posaconazole, with great attention necessary to assess likely drug-drug interactions. Liposomal amphotericin B and echinocandins are less effective. A reduction in or stopping immunosuppression needs careful consideration, given the overall mortality of IA in renal-transplanted patients; continuing corticosteroid after the diagnosis of IA increases mortality by 2.5 times. Surgical resection or the addition of a gamma interferon should also be considered.

Post-transplantation cutaneous and renal Aspergillus infection

A renal transplant recipient aged 68 years experienced multiple complications after an initial good graft function from a deceased donor transplant. Late in the first week, the patient was oliguric with hematuria; the graft failed in week 2 after the development of a hematoma from a rupture of a renal artery aneurysm. He had a recurrent bleed from the internal iliac graft site and subsequently developed painful dark patches on his leg, distal to where the transplant had been. Histology from the explanted graft and skin biopsies demonstrated Aspergillus flavus; this was also grown in the culture of the external iliac artery tissue. Systemic aspergillosis is rare but well recognized, especially in the immunocompromised. Presentations include mycotic aneurysms and secondary cutaneous aspergillosis from hematogenous spread. Diagnosis requires confirmation by histology or direct culture, but a high β-glucan concentration and positive galactomannan antigen can suggest invasive fungal infection in the early stages of the disease. Cases should be managed with systemic antifungals and involvement of local microbiology services; unfortunately, the prognosis is poor.

Cohort profile: The Swiss Transplant Cohort Study (STCS): A nationwide longitudinal cohort study of all solid organ recipients in Switzerland

PURPOSE

The Swiss Transplant Cohort Study (STCS) is a prospective multicentre cohort study which started to actively enrol study participants in May 2008. It takes advantage of combining data from all transplant programmes in one unique system to perform comprehensive nationwide reporting and to promote translational and clinical post-transplant outcome research in the framework of Swiss transplantation medicine.

PARTICIPANTS

Over 5500 solid organ transplant recipients have been enrolled in all six Swiss transplant centres by end of 2019, around three-quarter of them for kidney and liver transplants. Ninety-three per cent of all transplanted recipients have consented to study participation, almost all of them (99%) contributed to bio-sampling. The STCS genomic data set includes around 3000 patients.

FINDINGS TO DATE

Detailed clinical and laboratory data in high granularity as well as patient-reported outcomes from transplant recipients and activities in Switzerland are available in the last decade. Interdisciplinary contributions in diverse fields of transplantation medicine such as infectious diseases, genomics, oncology, immunology and psychosocial science have resulted in approximately 70 scientific papers getting published in peer-review journals so far.

FUTURE PLANS

The STCS will deepen its efforts in personalised medicine and digital epidemiology, and will also focus on allocation research and the use of causal inference methods to make complex matters in transplant medicine more understandable and transparent.

Invasive aspergillosis in solid organ transplantation: Diagnostic challenges and differences in outcome in a Spanish national cohort (Diaspersot study)

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) can be problematic in solid organ transplantation (SOT). The prognosis greatly varies according to the type of transplant, and the impact of prophylaxis is not well defined.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Diaspersot cohort analyses the impact of IA in SOT in Spain during the last 10 years. Proven and probable/putative IA was included.

RESULTS

We analysed 126 cases of IA. The incidences of IA were as follows: 6.5%, 2.9%, 1.8% and 0.6% for lung, heart, liver and kidney transplantation, respectively. EORTC/MSG criteria confirmed only 49.7% of episodes. Tree-in-bud sign or ground-glass infiltrates were present in 56.3% of patients, while serum galactomannan (optical density index >0.5) was positive in 50.6%. A total of 41.3% received combined antifungal therapy. Overall mortality at 3 months was significantly lower (p < 0.001) in lung transplant recipients (14.8%) than in all other transplants [globally: 48.6%; kidney 52.0%, liver 58.3%, heart 31.2%, and combined 42.9%]. Fifty-four percent of episodes occurred despite the receipt of antifungal prophylaxis, and in 10%, IA occurred during prophylaxis (breakthrough infection), with both nebulised amphotericin (in lung transplant recipients) and candins (in the rest).

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive aspergillosis diagnostic criteria, applied to SOT patients, may differ from those established for haematological patients. IA in lung transplants has a higher incidence, but is associated with a better prognosis than other transplants. Combination therapy is frequently used for IA in SOT. Prophylactic measures require optimisation of its use within this population.

Does Post-Transplant Cytomegalovirus Increase the Risk of Invasive Aspergillosis in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and invasive aspergillosis (IA) cause high morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. There are conflicting data with respect to the impact of CMV on IA development in SOT recipients. Methods: A literature search was conducted from existence through to 2 April 2021 using MEDLINE, Embase, and ISI Web of Science databases. This review contained observational studies including cross-sectional, prospective cohort, retrospective cohort, and case-control studies that reported SOT recipients with post-transplant CMV (exposure) and without post-transplant CMV (non-exposure) who developed or did not develop subsequent IA. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled effect estimate. Results: A total of 16 studies were included for systematic review and meta-analysis. There were 5437 SOT patients included in the study, with 449 SOT recipients developing post-transplant IA. Post-transplant CMV significantly increased the risk of subsequent IA with pORs of 3.31 (2.34, 4.69), I² = 30%. Subgroup analyses showed that CMV increased the risk of IA development regardless of the study period (before and after 2003), types of organ transplantation (intra-thoracic and intra-abdominal transplantation), and timing after transplant (early vs. late IA development). Further analyses by CMV definitions showed CMV disease/syndrome increased the risk of IA development, but asymptomatic CMV viremia/infection did not increase the risk of IA. Conclusions: Post-transplant CMV, particularly CMV disease/syndrome, significantly increased the risks of IA, which highlights the importance of CMV prevention strategies in SOT recipients. Further studies are needed to understand the impact of programmatic fungal surveillance or antifungal prophylaxis to prevent this fungal-after-viral phenomenon.

Comparing the diagnostic value of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid galactomannan, serum galactomannanan, and serum 1,3-β-d-glucan in non-neutropenic respiratory disease patients with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis

The incidence of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is increasing higher in non-neutropenic patients. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Galactomannan (GM), serum GM, and 1,3-β-d-glucan (BDG) in non-neutropenic respiratory disease patients with IPA.A total of 333 non-neutropenic patients suspected IPA were recruited from Xiamen University Zhong Shan hospital between January 2016 and February 2019. One, 33, and 92 cases were diagnosed with proven, and possible IPA.BALF and serum GM were both elevated in the possible IPA group and the probable/proven IPA group (p < 0.001). BALF and serum GM showed a fair correlation in the possible IPA group (r = 0.286, p = 0.008), and moderate correlation in the probable/proven IPA group (r = 0.466, p = 0.005). When the cutoff value was 0.5, the sensitivity and negative likelihood ratio of BALF GM were superior to serum GM (78.3% vs 47.8%, 96.7% vs 91.6%). The specificity and positive likelihood ratio of BALF GM were slightly weaker than serum GM (91.8% vs 95.4%, 56.7% vs 85.0%). When the cutoff value was 1.0, the sensitivity and negative predictive value of BALF GM were better than serum GM (73.9% vs 26.1%, 94.5% vs 88.8%), and the specificity of were equivalent (99.2%). The optimal cutoff value of BALF GM was 0.6, wherein the sensitivity reached 78.3% and the specificity reached 95.4%. Given the extremely low sensitivity of serum BDG at different cutoff values (≥10 μg/mL = 5.3%, ≥20 μg/mL = 2.1%), it cannot be used as a preferred biomarker.The diagnostic performance of BALF GM was superior to other biomarkers and the optimal cutoff value was 0.6.

Invasive aspergillosis in solid organ transplant patients: diagnosis, prophylaxis, treatment, and assessment of response

BACKGROUND

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a rare complication in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. Although IA has significant implications on graft and patient survival, data on diagnosis and management of this infection in SOT recipients are still limited.

METHODS

Discussion of current practices and limitations in the diagnosis, prophylaxis, and treatment of IA and proposal of means of assessing treatment response in SOT recipients.

RESULTS

Liver, lung, heart or kidney transplant recipients have common as well as different risk factors to the development of IA, thus each category needs a separate evaluation. Diagnosis of IA in SOT recipients requires a high degree of awareness, because established diagnostic tools may not provide the same sensitivity and specificity observed in the neutropenic population. IA treatment relies primarily on mold-active triazoles, but potential interactions with immunosuppressants and other concomitant therapies need special attention.

CONCLUSIONS

Criteria to assess response have not been sufficiently evaluated in the SOT population and CT lesion dynamics, and serologic markers may be influenced by the underlying disease and type and severity of immunosuppression. There is a need for well-orchestrated efforts to study IA diagnosis and management in SOT recipients and to develop comprehensive guidelines for this population.

Factors associated with coinfections in invasive aspergillosis: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To describe the coinfections in invasive aspergillosis (IA), to identify factors associated with coinfections, and to evaluate the impact of coinfection on mortality.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a monocentric retrospective study of consecutive putative, probable, or proven IA that occurred between 1997 and 2017. All coinfections, with an onset within 7 days before or after the first sign of aspergillosis, were identified. Factors associated with coinfections and mortality were analysed by multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

Among the 690 patients with IA included in the study, the median age was 57 years (range 7 days to 90 years). A coinfection was diagnosed in 272/690 patients (39.4%, 95%CI 35.8-43.2). The location of this coinfection was pulmonary only in 131/272 patients (48%), bloodstream only in 66/272 patients (24%) and other/multiple sites in 75/272 patients (28%). Coinfections were bacterial (110/272 patients, 40%), viral (58/272, 21%), fungal (57/272, 21%), parasitic (5/272, 2%) or due to multiple types of pathogens (42/272, 15%). Factors associated with a coinfection in adjusted analysis were: allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (OR 2.3 (1.2-4.4)), other haematological malignancies (OR 2.1 (1.2-3.8)), other underlying diseases (OR 4.3 (1.4-13.6)), lymphopenia (OR 1.7 (1.1-2.5)), C-reactive protein >180 mg/L (OR 1.9 (1.2-3.0)), fever (OR 2.4 (1.5-4.1)), tracheal intubation (OR 2.6 (1.5-4.7)), isolation of two or more different Aspergillus species (OR 2.7 (1.1-6.3)), and the presence of non-nodular lesions on chest computed tomography (OR 2.2 (1.3-3.7) and OR 2.2 (1.2-4.0)). Coinfections were independently associated with a higher mortality at week 12 (adjusted HR 1.5 (1.1-1.9), p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Coinfections are frequent in IA patients and are associated with higher mortality.

Risk factors for the development of invasive aspergillosis after kidney transplantation: Systematic review and meta-analysis

To investigate risk factors for invasive aspergillosis (IA) after kidney transplantation (KT), we conducted a systematic search in PubMed and EMBASE to identify studies published until June 2020. We included case-control or cohort design studies comprising KT recipients with a diagnosis of IA, defined according to the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Invasive Fungal Infections Cooperative Group criteria, and assessed risk factors for the development of IA. Random-effect models meta-analysis served to pool data. We identified eleven case-control studies (319 IA cases and 835 controls). There was an increased risk of IA among recipients with underlying chronic lung diseases (odds ratio [OR] = 7.26; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05-50.06) and among those with diabetic nephropathy (OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.10-2.48). Requiring posttransplant hemodialysis (OR = 3.69; 95% CI = 2.13-6.37) or surgical reintervention (OR = 6.28; 95% CI = 1.67-23.66) were also associated with an increased risk. Moreover, a positive link was identified between IA and posttransplant bacterial infection (OR = 7.51; 95% CI = 4.37-12.91), respiratory tract viral infection (OR = 7.75; 95% CI = 1.60-37.57), cytomegalovirus infection or disease (OR = 2.67; 95% CI = 1.12-6.32), and acute graft rejection (OR = 3.01; 95% CI = 1.78-5.09). In contrast, receiving a kidney from a living donor was associated with a reduced risk (OR = 0.65; 95% CI = 0.46-0.93). KT recipients that accumulate several of these conditions should be closely monitored and a low threshold of suspicion for IA should be maintained. Future studies should explore the benefit of mold-active prophylaxis to this subgroup of KT recipients at highest risk.

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis associated with COVID-19 in a kidney transplant recipient

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) might increase the risk of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Although several case reports and small series have been reported in the general population, scarce information is available regarding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated IPA in the setting of solid organ transplantation. We describe a case of a kidney transplant recipient with severe COVID-19 that was subsequently diagnosed with probable IPA on the basis of the repeated isolation of Aspergillus fumigatus in sputum cultures, repeatedly increased serum (1 → 3)-β-d-glucan levels, and enlarging cavitary nodules in the CT scan. The evolution was favorable after initiation of isavuconazole and nebulized liposomal amphotericin B combination therapy and the withdrawal of immunosuppression.

Predictors of Adverse Events and Determinants of the Voriconazole Trough Concentration in Kidney Transplantation Recipients

Voriconazole is the mainstay for the treatment of invasive fungal infections in patients who underwent a kidney transplant. Variant CYP2C19 alleles, hepatic function, and concomitant medications are directly involved in the metabolism of voriconazole. However, the drug is also associated with numerous adverse events. The purpose of this study was to identify predictors of adverse events using binary logistic regression and to measure its trough concentration using multiple linear modeling. We conducted a prospective analysis of 93 kidney recipients cotreated with voriconazole and recorded 213 trough concentrations of it. Predictors of the adverse events were voriconazole trough concentration with the odds ratios (OR) of 2.614 (P = 0.016), cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19), and hemoglobin (OR 0.181, P = 0.005). The predictive power of these three factors was 91.30%. We also found that CYP2C19 phenotypes, hemoglobin, platelet count, and concomitant use of ilaprazole had quantitative relationships with voriconazole trough concentration. The fit coefficient of this regression equation was R²  = 0.336, demonstrating that the model explained 33.60% of interindividual variability in the disposition of voriconazole. In conclusion, predictors of adverse events are CYP2C19 phenotypes, hemoglobin, and voriconazole trough concentration. Determinants of the voriconazole trough concentration were CYP2C19 phenotypes, platelet count, hemoglobin, concomitant use of ilaprazole. If we consider these factors during voriconazole use, we are likely to maximize the treatment effect and minimize adverse events.

Risk factors for development and mortality of invasive pulmonary Aspergillosis in kidney transplantation recipients

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a high mortality opportunistic infection among kidney transplant recipients. This study assessed the risk factors and outcomes of IPA after KT. A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary-care referral hospital in Korea. Electronic medical records of patients diagnosed with IPA after KT between February 1995 and March 2015 were reviewed. The control patients comprised two patients who received KT before and after each IPA case. Twenty-six cases were diagnosed with IPA among 1963 recipients at a median of 58 years old. The most common cause of end-stage renal disease was diabetic nephropathy. The median time to diagnosis was 161 days. Delayed graft function was associated with the development of IPA. The overall 12-week mortality rate of IPA was 57.5%. Serum GM level ≥ 2 and BAL GM level ≥ 5 were associated with 12-week mortality in the Kaplan-Meier survival analyses. Approximately half of IPA in KT recipients developed during the late posttransplant period (> 6 months), especially after treatment for acute rejection. Careful monitoring for IPA is required in patients with delayed graft function, DM, and who received rejection therapy. Higher serum and BAL GM were associated with 12-week mortality.

Incidence and outcomes of invasive fungal infection among solid organ transplant recipients: A population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Invasive fungal infection (IFI) in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The long-term probability of post-transplant IFI is poorly understood.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based cohort study using linked administrative healthcare databases from Ontario, Canada, to determine the incidence rate; 1-, 5-, and 10-year cumulative probabilities of IFI; and post-IFI all-cause mortality in SOT recipients from 2002 to 2016. We also determined post-IFI, death-censored renal allograft failure.

RESULTS

We included 9326 SOT recipients (median follow-up: 5.35 years). Overall, the incidence of IFI was 8.3 per 1000 person-years. The 1-year cumulative probability of IFI was 7.4% for lung, 5.4% for heart, 1.8% for liver, 1.2% for kidney-pancreas, and 1.1% for kidney-only allograft recipients. Lung transplant recipients had the highest incidence rate and 10-year probability of IFI: 43.0 per 1000 person-years and 26.4%, respectively. The 1-year all-cause mortality rate after IFI was 34.3%. IFI significantly increased the risk of mortality in SOT recipients over the entire follow-up period (hazard ratio: 6.50, 95% CI: 5.69-7.42). The 1-year probability of death-censored renal allograft failure after IFI was 9.8%.

CONCLUSION

Long-term cumulative probability of IFI varies widely among SOT recipients. Lung transplantation was associated with the highest incidence of IFI with considerable 1-year all-cause mortality.

Invasive fungal disease and cytomegalovirus infection: is there an association?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections occur frequently, either concomitantly or sequentially in immune-compromised hosts. Although there is extensive knowledge of the risk factors for these infections as single entities, the inter-relationship between opportunistic fungii and CMV has not been comprehensively explored.

RECENT FINDINGS

Both solid organ and stem cell transplant recipients who develop CMV invasive organ disease are at an increased risk of developing IFD, particularly aspergillosis and Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). Moreover, CMV viremia and recipient CMV serostatus also increased the risk of both early and late-onset IFD. Treatment-related factors, such as ganciclovir-induced neutropenia and host genetic Toll-like receptor (TLR) polymorphisms are likely to be contributory. Less is known about the relationship between CMV and IFD outside transplantation, such as in patients with hematological cancers or other chronic immunosuppressive conditions. Finally, few studies report on the relationship between CMV-specific treatments or the viral/antigen kinetics and its influence on IFD management.

SUMMARY

CMV infection is associated with increased risk of IFD in posttransplant recipients because of a number of overlapping and virus-specific risk factors. Better understanding of how CMV virus, its related treatment, CMV-induced immunosuppression and host genetic factors impact on IFD is warranted.

Invasive mould infections in solid organ transplant patients: modifiers and indicators of disease and treatment response

PURPOSE

Invasive mould infections, in particular invasive aspergillosis (IA), are comparatively frequent complications of immunosuppression in patients undergoing solid organ transplantation (SOT). Guidelines provide recommendations as to the procedures to be carried out to diagnose and treat IA, but only limited advice for SOT recipients.

METHODS

Literature review and expert consensus summarising the existing evidence related to prophylaxis, diagnosis, treatment and assessment of response to IA and infections by Mucorales in SOT patients RESULTS: Response to therapy should be assessed early and at regular intervals. No indications of improvement should lead to a prompt change of the antifungal treatment, to account for possible infections by Mucorales or other moulds such as Scedosporium. Imaging techniques, especially CT scan and possibly angiography carried out at regular intervals during early and long-term follow-up and coupled with a careful clinical diagnostic workout, should be evaluated as diagnostic tools and outcome predictors, and standardised to improve therapy monitoring. The role of biomarkers such as the galactomannan test and PCR, as well as selected inflammation parameters, has not yet been definitively assessed in the SOT population and needs to be studied further. The therapeutic workup should consider a reduction of immunosuppressive therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The role of immunosuppression and immune tolerance mechanisms in the response to invasive fungal infection treatment is an important factor in the SOT population and should not be underestimated. The choice of the antifungal should consider not only their toxicity but also their effects on the immune system, two features that are intertwined.

Diagnosis and management of asymptomatic bacteriuria in kidney transplant recipients: a survey of current practice in Europe

Background

Asymptomatic bacteriuria is frequent in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). However, there is no consensus on diagnosis or management. We conducted a European survey to explore current practice related to the diagnosis and management of asymptomatic bacteriuria in adult KTRs.

Methods

A panel of experts from the European Renal Association-European Dialysis Transplant Association/Developing Education Science and Care for Renal Transplantation in European States working group and the European Study Group for Infections in Compromised Hosts of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases designed this cross-sectional, questionnaire-based, self-administered survey. Invitations to participate were e-mailed to European physicians involved in the care of KTRs.

Results

Two hundred and forty-four participants from 138 institutions in 25 countries answered the survey (response rate 30%). Most participants [72% (176/244)] said they always screen for asymptomatic bacteriuria in KTRs. Six per cent (15/240) reported never treating asymptomatic bacteriuria with antibiotics. When antimicrobial treatment was used, 24% of the participants (53/224) said they would start with empirical antibiotics. For an episode of asymptomatic bacteriuria caused by a fully susceptible microorganism and despite no contraindications, a majority of participants (121/223) said they would use a fluoroquinolone (n = 56), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (n = 38) or oral cephalosporins (n = 27).

Conclusions

Screening for and treating asymptomatic bacteriuria are common in KTRs despite uncertainties around the benefits and harms. In an era of antimicrobial resistance, further studies are needed to address the diagnosis and management of asymptomatic bacteriuria in these patients.

Is hospital-acquired pneumonia different in transplant recipients?

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) are serious complications in transplant patients. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence regarding nosocomial pneumonia in transplant recipients, including HAP in non-ventilated patients and VAP, and to identify future directions for improvement.A comprehensive literature search in the PubMed/MEDLINE database was performed. Articles written in English and published between 1990 and November 2018 were included. HAP/VAP in transplant patients usually occurs early post-transplant, particularly during neutropenia in haematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. Bacteria are the leading cause of nosocomial pneumonia for both immunocompetent and transplant recipients, being Gram negative organisms, and especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa, highly prevalent. Multidrug-resistant bacteria are of special concern. Pneumonia in the transplant setting may be caused by opportunistic pathogens, and the differential diagnosis needs to be extended to other non-infectious complications. The most relevant opportunistic pathogens are Aspergillus fumigatus, Pneumocystis jirovecii and cytomegalovirus. Nevertheless, they are an exceptional cause of nosocomial pneumonia, and usually occur in severely immunosuppressed patients not receiving antimicrobial prophylaxis. Performing bronchoalveolar lavage may improve the rate of aetiological diagnosis, leading to a change in therapeutic management and improved outcomes. The optimal length of antibiotic therapy for bacterial HAP/VAP has not been well defined, but it should perhaps be longer than in the general population. Mortality associated with HAP/VAP is high. HAP/VAP in transplant patients is frequent and is associated with increased mortality. There is room for improvement in gaining knowledge about the management of HAP/VAP in this population.

Use of echinocandin prophylaxis in solid organ transplantation

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are a major threat to patients undergoing solid organ transplantation (SOT). Owing to improvements in surgical techniques, immunosuppression therapy and antifungal prophylaxis, the incidence of IFIs has been decreasing in recent years. However, IFI-associated morbidity and mortality remain significant. Invasive candidiasis (IC) and aspergillosis (IA) are the main IFIs after SOT. Risk factors for IC and IA continue to evolve, and thus strategies for their prevention should be constantly updated and targeted to both individual patient risk factors and local epidemiology. In this review, we discuss the current epidemiology and risk factors for IFIs in SOT recipients in the context of actual approaches to antifungal prophylaxis, including experience with the use of echinocandins, after SOT.

Management of Infection in Patients With Kidney Transplant

With the pervasive nature of chronic kidney disease, kidney transplantation is likely to continue to increase in the coming years. There are many infectious risks related to kidney transplant, including reactivation of latent infections, surgical complications, infectious risks related to immunosuppression, and nosocomial and community-acquired infections. These are described classically via timeline with early infections (first month), middle (1 to 6 months), and late (after 6 months). Kidney transplant patients may suffer from infections secondary to a vast array of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Certain infections, particularly viral infections such as cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and BK virus, may portend acute and chronic implications of the infection and its subsequent impact on graft function. Critical care physicians and nephrologists caring for patients with a renal transplant must understand the broad array of possible infections, atypical presentations, and nuanced implications for appropriate evaluation and subsequent therapy, combined with the need for possible prophylaxis and/or suppression. Multidisciplinary teams, including transplant physicians and infectious diseases physicians, are encouraged strongly.

Highlights in solid transplant infectious diseases 2015-2017

Solid organ transplant recipients have an increased risk of developing infections due to the lifelong treatment with immunosuppressive drugs. Herein we review recent (2015-2017) and relevant published advances in the field of bacterial, viral and fungal-infections in this population. We also address the most up-to-date immunological assays that can predict the risk of infection. Finally, we review current guidelines and how they improve the usual clinical care.

Epidemiology, risk factors and outcomes of invasive aspergillosis in solid organ transplant recipients in the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

There is lack of recent multicenter epidemiological data on invasive aspergillosis (IA) among solid organ transplant recipient (SOTr) in the mold-acting antifungal era. We describe the epidemiology and outcomes of IA in a contemporary cohort of SOTr using the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study.

METHODS

All consecutive SOTr with proven or probable IA between 01.05.2008 and 31.12.2014 were included. A case-control study to identify IA predictors was performed: 1-case was matched with 3-controls based on SOT type, transplant center, and time post-SOT.

RESULTS

Among 2868 SOTr, 70 (2.4%) patients were diagnosed with proven (N: 30/70, 42.9%) or probable (N: 40/70, 57.1%) IA. The incidence of IA was 8.3%, 7.1%, 2.6%, 1.3%, and 1.2% in lung, heart, combined, kidney, and liver transplant recipients, respectively, Galactomannan immunoassay was positive in 1/3 of patients tested. Only 33/63 (52.4%) of patients presented with typical pulmonary radiographic findings. Predictors of IA included: renal insufficiency, re-operation, and bacterial and viral infections. 12-week mortality was higher in liver (85.7%, 6/7) compared to other (15.9%, 10/63; P < .001) SOTr.

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive aspergillosis remains a rare complication post-SOT, with atypical radiographic presentations and low positivity rates of biomarkers posing significant diagnostic challenges. Although overall mortality has decreased in SOTr, it remains high in liver SOTr.

Diagnosis and management of Aspergillus diseases: executive summary of the 2017 ESCMID-ECMM-ERS guideline

The European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, the European Confederation of Medical Mycology and the European Respiratory Society Joint Clinical Guidelines focus on diagnosis and management of aspergillosis. Of the numerous recommendations, a few are summarized here. Chest computed tomography as well as bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in patients with suspicion of pulmonary invasive aspergillosis (IA) are strongly recommended. For diagnosis, direct microscopy, preferably using optical brighteners, histopathology and culture are strongly recommended. Serum and BAL galactomannan measures are recommended as markers for the diagnosis of IA. PCR should be considered in conjunction with other diagnostic tests. Pathogen identification to species complex level is strongly recommended for all clinically relevant Aspergillus isolates; antifungal susceptibility testing should be performed in patients with invasive disease in regions with resistance found in contemporary surveillance programmes. Isavuconazole and voriconazole are the preferred agents for first-line treatment of pulmonary IA, whereas liposomal amphotericin B is moderately supported. Combinations of antifungals as primary treatment options are not recommended. Therapeutic drug monitoring is strongly recommended for patients receiving posaconazole suspension or any form of voriconazole for IA treatment, and in refractory disease, where a personalized approach considering reversal of predisposing factors, switching drug class and surgical intervention is also strongly recommended. Primary prophylaxis with posaconazole is strongly recommended in patients with acute myelogenous leukaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome receiving induction chemotherapy. Secondary prophylaxis is strongly recommended in high-risk patients. We strongly recommend treatment duration based on clinical improvement, degree of immunosuppression and response on imaging.

Impact of CYP2C19 Genotype and Liver Function on Voriconazole Pharmacokinetics in Renal Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Invasive fungal infection (IFI) is one of the leading causes of early death after renal transplantation. Voriconazole (VRC) is the first-line drug of IFI. Because of the large inter- and intraindividual variability in VRC plasma concentrations and the narrow therapeutic window for treating patients with IFIs, it is crucial to study the factors which could influence pharmacokinetic variability. We performed a population pharmacokinetics (PPK) study of VRC for personalized medicine.

METHODS

A total of 125 trough concentrations (Cmin) from 56 patients were evaluated, retrospectively. Nonlinear mixed effect model was used to describe a PPK model that was internally validated by bootstrap method. Potential covariates included demographic characteristics, physiological and pathological data, concomitant medications, and CYP2C19 genotype.

RESULTS

A 1-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination was fit to characterize the VRC pharmacokinetics in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) had a significant influence on clearance (CL) while CYP2C19 genotype had a major impact on the volume of distribution (V). The parameters of CL and V were 4.76 L/h and 22.47 L, respectively. The final model was V (L) = 22.47 × [1 + 2.21 × (EM = 1)] × [1 + 4.67 × (IM = 1)] × [1 + 3.30 × (PM = 1)] × exp (0.96); CL (L/h) = 4.76 × (AST/33)^(-0.23) × exp (0.14). VRC Cmin in intermediate metabolizers was significantly higher than in extensive metabolizers.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver function and CYP2C19 polymorphism are major determinants of VRC pharmacokinetic variability in RTRs. Genotypes and clinical biomarkers can determine the initial scheme. Subsequently, therapeutic drug monitoring can optimize clinical efficacy and minimize toxicity. Hence, this is a feasible way to facilitate personalized medicine in RTRs. In addition, it is the first report about PPK of VRC in RTRs.

Risk factors for health care-associated infection in hospitalized adults: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Health care-associated infections (HAIs) are a public health problem that increase health care costs. This article aimed to systematically review the literature and meta-analyze studies investigating risk factors (RFs) independently associated with HAIs in hospitalized adults.

METHODS

Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, and LILACS) were searched to identify studies from 2009-2016. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) or odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and compared across the groups. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

RESULTS

Of 867 studies, 65 met the criteria for review, and the data of 18 were summarized in the meta-analysis. The major RFs independently associated with HAIs were diabetes mellitus (RR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.27-2.44), immunosuppression (RR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.04-1.47), body temperature (MD, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.41-0.83), surgery time in minutes (MD, 34.53; 95% CI, 22.17-46.89), reoperation (RR, 7.94; 95% CI, 5.49-11.48), cephalosporin exposure (RR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.30-2.42), days of exposure to central venous catheter (MD, 5.20; 95% CI, 4.91-5.48), intensive care unit (ICU) admission (RR, 3.76; 95% CI, 1.79-7.92), ICU stay in days (MD, 21.30; 95% CI, 19.81-22.79), and mechanical ventilation (OR, 12.95; 95% CI, 6.28-26.73).

CONCLUSIONS

Identifying RFs that contribute to develop HAIs may support the implementation of strategies for their prevention, therefore maximizing patient safety.

Monitoring of clinical strains and environmental fungal aerocontamination to prevent invasive aspergillosis infections in hospital during large deconstruction work: a protocol study

INTRODUCTION

Monitoring fungal aerocontamination is an essential measure to prevent severe invasive aspergillosis (IA) infections in hospitals. One central block among 32 blocks of Edouard Herriot Hospital (EHH) was entirely demolished in 2015, while care activities continued in surrounding blocks. The main objective was to undertake broad environmental monitoring and clinical surveillance of IA cases to document fungal dispersion during major deconstruction work and to assess clinical risk.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A daily environmental survey of fungal loads was conducted in eight wards located near the demolition site. Air was collected inside and outside selected wards by agar impact samplers. Daily spore concentrations were monitored continuously by volumetric samplers at a flow rate of 10 L.min^-1. Daily temperature, wind direction and speed as well as relative humidity were recorded by the French meteorological station Meteociel. Aspergillus fumigatus strains stored will be genotyped by multiple-locus, variable-number, tandem-repeat analysis. Antifungal susceptibility will be assessed by E-test strips on Roswell Park Memorial Institute medium supplemented with agar. Ascertaining the adequacy of current environmental monitoring techniques in hospital is of growing importance, considering the rising impact of fungal infections and of curative antifungal costs. The present study could improve the daily management of IA risk during major deconstruction work and generate new data to ameliorate and redefine current guidelines.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was approved by the clinical research and ethics committees of EHH.

Diagnostic Value of Galactomannan Antigen Test in Serum and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Samples from Patients with Nonneutropenic Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis

The objective of this study was to compare the diagnostic value of galactomannan (GM) detection in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum samples from nonneutropenic patients with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) and determine the optimal BALF GM cutoff value for pulmonary aspergillosis. GM detection in BALF and serum samples was performed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 128 patients with clinically suspected nonneutropenic pulmonary aspergillosis between June 2014 and June 2016. On the basis of the clinical and pathological diagnoses, 8 patients were excluded because their diagnosis was uncertain. The remaining 120 patients were diagnosed with either IPA (n = 37), community-acquired pneumonia (CAP; n = 59), noninfectious diseases (n = 19), or tuberculosis (n = 5). At a cutoff optical density index (ODI) value of ≥0.5, the sensitivity of BALF GM detection was much higher than that of serum GM detection (75.68% versus 37.84%; P = 0.001), but there was no significant difference between their specificities (80.72% versus 87.14%; P = 0.286). At a cutoff value of ≥1.0, the sensitivity of BALF GM detection was still much higher than that of serum GM detection (64.86% versus 24.32%; P < 0.001), and their specificities were similar (90.36% versus 95.71%; P = 0.202). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that when the BALF GM detection cutoff value was 0.7, its diagnostic value for pulmonary aspergillosis was optimized, and the sensitivity and specificity reached 72.97% and 89.16%, respectively. BALF GM detection was valuable for the diagnosis of IPA in nonneutropenic patients, and its diagnostic value was superior to that of serum GM detection. The optimal BALF GM cutoff value was 0.7.