Incidence and outcomes of cytomegalovirus in pancreas transplantation with steroid-free immunosuppression

High burden of CMV infections after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation-a nationwide cohort study

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections remain a common problem after solid-organ transplantation. We characterized the burden of CMV infections, and adverse events of CMV prophylaxis after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK). We included all SPK patients (n = 236) since 2010 in our country. Immunosuppression was ATG, tacrolimus, mycophenolate, and steroids. Valganciclovir prophylaxis was given to all CMV D+/R- patients for six months, and to seropositive SPK patients for three months since February 2019. CMV DNAemia was monitored with quantitative PCR from plasma. Among D+/R- SPK recipients, post prophylaxis CMV infection was detected in 41/60 (68%) during follow-up. In seropositive SPK recipients with no prophylaxis, CMV infection was detected in 53/95 (56%), vs. 28/78 (36%) in those who received 3 months of prophylaxis (P = 0.01). CMV was symptomatic in 35 (15%) patients, of which 10 required hospitalization. Mean duration of viremia was 28 days (IQR 21-41). Leukopenia was detected in 63 (46%) of the 138 patients with valganciclovir prophylaxis. 7/122 (6%) of the CMV infections detected were defined as refractory to treatment, and three patients had confirmed ganciclovir resistance. SPK recipients experience a high burden of CMV infections despite CMV prophylaxis. Leukopenia is common during valganciclovir prophylaxis.

Ultrasound of pancreatic transplant complications: a primer for radiologists

Pancreatic transplantation is an established treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes patients and select type 2 diabetes patients, with excellent survival rates as graft health is evaluated through regular imaging and early detection of complications. Amongst the various imaging methods that may aid in diagnosis of pancreatic transplant complications, ultrasound is a widely available, quick, portable, and cost-effective technique, often used as the sole method to assess for pancreatic transplant complications. When assessing a patient with a pancreatic transplant, the radiologist should be methodical in assessing the vasculature, the pancreatic parenchyma, and the peripancreatic regions. Complications can be categorised based on time from transplant and type of complications, and include vascular, parenchymal, and enteric/anastomotic complications. Doppler has a major role in the diagnosis of vascular complications including arterial and venous thrombosis, arterial stenosis, pseudoaneurysms, and haematomas. Pancreatic complications include rejections and pancreatitis, and are often diagnosed through a combination of clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings, such as pancreatic heterogeneity or the presence of pancreatic pseudocysts. Enteric/anastomotic complications include leaks and bowel obstructions, and may require cross-sectional imaging in addition to ultrasound. This review covers the most common and high-impact vascular, parenchymal, and enteric/anastomotic complications that should be considered in every radiologist's search pattern when assessing a pancreatic graft, as well as their respective postoperative timeframes.

A comprehensive update of the metabolic and toxicological considerations for immunosuppressive drugs used during pancreas transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Despite significant advancements in immunosuppressive regimens and surgical techniques, the prevalence of adverse events related to immunosuppression remains a major challenge affecting the long-term survival rates of pancreas and kidney allografts.

AREAS COVERED

This article presents a comprehensive review of the literature and knowledge (Jan/2012-Feb/2023) concerning glucose metabolism disorders and nephrotoxicity associated with tacrolimus and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi). Novel signaling pathways potentially implicated in these adverse events are discussed. Furthermore, we extensively examine the findings from clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus, mTORi, and steroid minimization.

EXPERT OPINION

Tacrolimus-based regimens continue to be the standard treatment following pancreas transplants. However, prolonged use of tacrolimus and mTORi may lead to hyperglycemia and nephrotoxicity. Understanding and interpreting experimental data, particularly concerning novel signaling pathways beyond calcineurin-NFAT and mTOR pathways, can offer valuable insights for therapeutic interventions to mitigate hyperglycemia and nephrotoxicity. Additionally, critically analyzing clinical trial results can identify opportunities for personalized safety-based approaches to minimize side effects. It is imperative to conduct randomized-controlled studies to assess the impact of mTORi use and steroid-free protocols on pancreatic allograft survival. Such studies will aid in tailoring treatment strategies for improved transplant outcomes.

Recurrent Cytomegalovirus Infection Controlled by the Introduction of Everolimus in a Simultaneous Pancreas-Kidney Transplantation Recipient: A Case Report

In simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) recipients, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a major complication that has been associated with the use of tacrolimus (TAC)-based immunosuppression. As one of the immunosuppressive drug options, the use of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) results in reduced rates of CMV infection in the field of solid organ transplantation. However, little is known about mTORi usage in pancreas transplantation. We report a case of recurrent CMV infection that was controlled by the introduction of mTORi (everolimus) in addition to a TAC-based immunosuppression regimen in SPK. A 52-year-old man underwent SPK. Graft duodenal perforation occurred on the 13th day of surgery, and graft duodenal resection was performed after long-term abscess drainage treatment. After graft duodenal resection, he was diagnosed with CMV viremia, and valganciclovir was started. However, because of recurrent febrile neutropenia caused by cytopenia as a side effect of valganciclovir, there was a repeated need for granulocyte-colony stimulating factor treatment. Immunosuppressive drug taper adjustment was attempted to control recurrent CMV viremia, and everolimus was introduced with the aim of reducing the dose of TAC and mycophenolate mofetil. This resulted in a continuously negative CMV antigenemia test and a stable general condition. Understanding the characteristics of various immunosuppressive agents and appropriately controlling and managing infectious diseases is crucial for the good postoperative management of patients with SPK.

First World Consensus Conference on pancreas transplantation: Part II - recommendations

The First World Consensus Conference on Pancreas Transplantation provided 49 jury deliberations regarding the impact of pancreas transplantation on the treatment of diabetic patients, and 110 experts' recommendations for the practice of pancreas transplantation. The main message from this consensus conference is that both simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) and pancreas transplantation alone can improve long-term patient survival, and all types of pancreas transplantation dramatically improve the quality of life of recipients. Pancreas transplantation may also improve the course of chronic complications of diabetes, depending on their severity. Therefore, the advantages of pancreas transplantation appear to clearly surpass potential disadvantages. Pancreas after kidney transplantation increases the risk of mortality only in the early period after transplantation, but is associated with improved life expectancy thereafter. Additionally, preemptive SPK, when compared to SPK performed in patients undergoing dialysis, appears to be associated with improved outcomes. Time on dialysis has negative prognostic implications in SPK recipients. Increased long-term survival, improvement in the course of diabetic complications, and amelioration of quality of life justify preferential allocation of kidney grafts to SPK recipients. Audience discussions and live voting are available online at the following URL address: http://mediaeventi.unipi.it/category/1st-world-consensus-conference-of-pancreas-transplantation/246.

Valganciclovir prophylaxis extension from 3 to 6 months in high-risk pancreas-transplant recipients does not impact incidence of cytomegalovirus infection at 12 months

PROBLEM

Incidence and impact of CMV infection in pancreas-transplant recipients (PTRs) in the valganciclovir prophylaxis era has not been completely elucidated.

METHODS

Adult D+/R- PTRs were divided into a current era (1/1/2011-12/31/17; 6-month PPX) and a historic era (1/1/2003-12/31/09; 3-month PPX).

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

effect of prophylaxis extension on the incidence of CMV infection.

SECONDARY OBJECTIVE

impact of extension on valganciclovir-related toxicity (leukopenia) and transplant outcomes.

RESULTS

There were 177 D+/R- PTRs in the study period (historic:98, current:79). Prophylaxis extension resulted in significant reduction of CMV infection from 25.4% to 10.9% at 6 months, (57% reduction, p = .021). However, 1-year rates of CMV infection (historic:31% vs current:36%) and end-organ disease (historic:7.7% vs current:6.9%) were not different (p = .93). Prophylaxis extension significantly increased leukopenia (white blood cell count<3 K/uL) at 6 months (historic:9.5% vs current:28.6%, p = .018). On multivariable analysis prophylaxis extension was not associated with reduced rates of CMV infection (p = .99) or CMV end-organ disease (p = .3). Additionally, there was no significant difference in rejection (p = .2), graft survival (p = .08), death-censored graft survival(p = .07) or patient survival (p = .6).

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylaxis extension in D+/R- PTRs appears to delay time to first CMV but not reduce overall incidence. These findings suggest a hybrid approach, incorporating antiviral withdrawal and protocolized monitoring, may be needed to improve CMV-related outcomes.

Impact of Deceased Donor Cardiac Arrest Time on Postpancreas Transplant Graft Function and Survival

Introduction

Transplantation of pancreas allografts from donors that have experienced preprocurement cardiopulmonary arrest (PPCA) is not common, though use of PPCA grafts is routine in liver and kidney transplantation. This article reviews a large number of PPCA pancreas grafts at a single center and reports posttransplant outcomes including early graft dysfunction, length of hospital stay, rejection, and early and late graft survival.

Methods

Preprocurement cardiopulmonary arrest, arrest time, and donor and recipient pancreatic enzyme levels were collected from electronic and written medical records. The PPCA donors were stratified into 4 groups: none, less than 20 minutes, 20-39 minutes, and 40 minutes or greater. Graft survival was assessed at 7 and 90 days and at 1 year. Long-term graft survival was assessed by Cox regression analysis.

Results

The records of 606 pancreas transplants were reviewed, including 328 (54%) simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplants. Preprocurement cardiopulmonary arrest occurred in 176 donors (29%; median time, 20 minutes). Median peak donor lipase was higher in PPCA donors (40 μ/L vs 29 μ/L, P = 0.02). Posttransplant, peak recipient amylase, and lipase levels were similar (P = 0.63). Prolonged arrest time (>40 minutes) was associated with higher donor peak lipase and lower recipient peak amylase (P = 0.05 for both). Stratified by donor arrest time, there was no difference in 7-day, 90-day, or 1-year graft survival. Cox regression comparing the 4 groups demonstrated no statistical difference in 10-year survival.

Conclusions

These results support transplantation of pancreas allografts from PPCA donors. Prolonged asystole was associated with higher peak donor serum lipase but lower peak recipient serum amylase. There were no differences in allograft survival.

Conversion from tacrolimus-mycophenolate mofetil to tacrolimus-mTOR immunosuppression after kidney-pancreas transplantation reduces the incidence of both BK and CMV viremia

BACKGROUND

We sought to determine whether conversion from tacrolimus/mycophenolate mofetil (TAC-MMF) into tacrolimus/mTOR inhibitor (TAC-mTOR) immunosuppression would reduce the incidences of BK and CMV viremia after kidney/pancreas (KP) transplantation.

METHODS

In this single-center review, the TAC-mTOR cohort (n = 39) was converted at 1 month post-transplant to an mTOR inhibitor and reduced-dose tacrolimus. Outcomes were compared to a cohort of KP recipients (n = 40) maintained on TAC-MMF.

RESULTS

At 3 years post-transplant, KP survivals and incidences of kidney/pancreas rejection were equivalent between mTOR and MMF-treated cohorts. (P = ns). BK viremia-free survival was better for the mTOR vs MMF-treated group (P = .004). In multivariate analysis, MMF vs mTOR immunosuppression was an independent risk factor for BK viremia (hazard ratio 12.27, P = .02). Similarly, mTOR-treated recipients displayed better CMV infection-free survival compared to the MMF-treated cohort (P = .01). MMF vs mTOR immunosuppression (hazard ratio 18.77, P = .001) and older recipient age (hazard ratio 1.13 per year, P = .006) were independent risk factors for CMV viremia. Mean estimated GFR and HgbA1c levels were equivalent between groups at 1, 2, and 3 years post-transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Conversion from TAC/MMF into TAC/mTOR immunosuppression after KP transplantation reduced the incidences of BK and CMV viremia with an equivalent risk of acute rejection and similar renal/pancreas function.

Long-term outcome after pancreas transplantation: a registry analysis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pancreas transplantation provides the only proven method to restore long-term normoglycemia in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Although many studies describe the most important risk factors for short-term survival of a pancreas transplant, more information about factors that distinguish short-term from long-term graft function is needed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Analysis of 21 328 pancreas transplants from the International Pancreas Transplant Registry, performed from 1984 to 2009 (minimum 5-year follow-up), shows a significant improvement in long-term patient survival and pancreas graft function. Total 5-and 10-year pancreas graft function rates are 73 and 56%, respectively, for simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplants; 64 and 38%, respectively, for pancreas after kidney; and 53 and 36%, respectively, for pancreas transplants alone. The most influential period is the first year posttransplant. Recipients who reach this time point with a functioning graft have a much higher probability for excellent long-term graft function. Important factors influencing long-term function were features that described the quality of the deceased donor. Pancreas transplants in younger, high panel reactive antibody, or African-American recipients also showed an increased risk of early graft failure. Anti-T-cell induction therapy had a significant impact on long-term survival in solitary transplants.

SUMMARY

With careful recipient and donor selection and close follow-up in the first year posttransplant, not only good short-term but also long-term pancreas graft function and, therefore, durable metabolic control can be achieved for the diabetic patient.

Burden of cytomegalovirus disease in solid organ transplant recipients: a national matched cohort study in an inpatient setting

BACKGROUND

We investigated the impact of early- (E-CMV) and late onset (L-CMV) cytomegalovirus disease on the probability of graft rejection, graft failure, mortality, and healthcare resource use, following solid organ transplantation (SOT) in France.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of data from the French 'Programme de Médicalisation des Systèmes d'Information' database (2007-2011) was conducted to identify SOT recipients who developed CMV disease in an inpatient setting. Recipients were stratified by time to CMV disease onset: E-CMV (≤3 months), L-CMV-3M (>3-24 months), and L-CMV-6M (>6-24 months). Data were analyzed by comparing recipients with CMV disease or without (controls) in a 1:2 ratio, matched according to age, gender, target organ, and previous/simultaneous occurrence of graft rejection. Graft failure, graft rejection, all-cause in-hospital mortality, and resource utilization (including hospitalization costs) were assessed over 12 months following CMV disease diagnosis.

RESULTS

Among 20 473 SOT recipients, 2430 (11.86%) were reported to have CMV disease within 24 months after transplantation. CMV disease was significantly associated with an increased risk of graft rejection and mortality, as indicated by logistic regression analysis. Odd ratios (ORs) for the risk of graft rejection were E-CMV=1.43, L-CMV-3M=1.50, and L-CMV-6M=1.61 (all P<.05), while ORs for mortality were E-CMV=2.85, L-CMV-3M=4.22, and L-CMV-6M=4.77 (all P<.0001). Only L-CMV was significantly correlated with a higher risk of graft failure: E-CMV=1.18 (P=.1906), L-CMV-3M=1.77 (P=.0013), and L-CMV-6M=3.12 (P<.0001). Hospitalization costs increased by €7078 (range €6270-€22 111), €6523 (range €5328-€10 295), and €6311 (range €5295-€9184) in recipients with E-CMV, L-CMV-3M, and L-CMV-6-M, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study, based on French national data, demonstrates the considerable burden of CMV disease in SOT recipients and highlights the importance of developing new strategies to prevent and manage CMV disease and improve clinical outcomes for SOT patients.