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Kemme S, Canniff JD, Garth KM, Li S, Mysore K, Weinberg A, Feldman AG. Detection of Viral RNA and DNA and Immune Response Following Administration of Live Attenuated Measles and Varicella Vaccines in Children with Chronic Liver Disease. Am J Transplant 2024:S1600-6135(24)00384-8. [PMID: 38901562 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2024.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Infections preventable by live virus vaccines are surging in the setting of decreased herd immunity. Many children with chronic liver diseases (CLD) are unimmunized and at increased risk for infection due to guidelines recommending against live vaccines within 4 weeks pre-transplant. This prospective study of 21 children with CLD and 13 healthy controls defined the timing of measles and varicella RNA- and DNA-emia following vaccination and compared immune responses to measles and varicella vaccines in both groups. Measles RNA and varicella DNA real-time PCR were measured weekly following vaccination; measles RNA was undetectable in all by 14 days post-vaccination, but varicella DNA, which can be managed with antivirals, was detected in one child in the CLD group at 21 days and one control at 28 days post-vaccination. Humoral or cell-mediated vaccine response was 100% to measles and 94% to varicella in the CLD group post-vaccination, while it was 100% to both vaccines in controls. Our pilot study suggests that both live vaccines can be safely and effectively administered up to 14-days prior to transplantation in children with CLD. We anticipate this will improve vaccination rates and thus decrease rates of vaccine preventable infections in vulnerable children with CLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kemme
- D. Brent Polk Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. Monroe Carrell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. Nashville, TN.
| | - Jennifer D Canniff
- Department of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Pathology. Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado. Aurora, CO.
| | - Krystle M Garth
- Department of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Pathology. Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado. Aurora, CO.
| | - Shaobing Li
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases. Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado School of Medicine. Aurora, CO.
| | - Krupa Mysore
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. Department of Pediatrics. Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.
| | - Adriana Weinberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Pathology. Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO.
| | - Amy G Feldman
- Digestive Health Institute, Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado. Aurora, CO.
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Laue T, Junge N, Leiskau C, Mutschler F, Ohlendorf J, Baumann U. Diminished measles immunity after paediatric liver transplantation-A retrospective, single-centre, cross-sectional analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296653. [PMID: 38315673 PMCID: PMC10843477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation in childhood has an excellent long-term outcome, but is associated with a long-term risk of infection. Measles is a vaccine-preventable infection, with case series describing severe courses with graft rejection, mechanical ventilation and even death in liver transplant recipients. Since about 30% of liver transplanted children receive liver transplants in their first year of life, not all have reached the recommended age for live vaccinations. On the contrary, live vaccines are contraindicated after transplantation. In addition, vaccination response is poorer in individuals with liver disease compared to healthy children. This retrospective, single-centre, cross-sectional study examines measles immunity in paediatric liver transplant recipients before and after transplantation. Vaccination records of 239 patients, followed up at Hannover Medical School between January 2021 and December 2022 were analysed. Twenty eight children were excluded due to stem cell transplantation, regular immunoglobulin substitution or measles vaccination after transplantation. More than 55% of all 211 children analysed and 75% of all those vaccinated at least once are measles seropositive after transplantation-48% after one and 84% after two vaccinations-which is less than in healthy individuals. Interestingly, 26% of unvaccinated children also showed measles antibodies and about 5-15% of vaccinated patients who were seronegative at the time of transplantation were seropositive afterwards, both possibly through infection. In multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression, the number of vaccinations (HR 4.30 [95% CI 2.09-8.83], p<0.001), seropositivity before transplantation (HR 2.38 [95% CI 1.07-5.30], p = 0.034) and higher age at time of first vaccination (HR 11.5 [95% CI 6.92-19.1], p<0.001) are independently associated with measles immunity after transplantation. In contrast, older age at testing is inversely associated (HR 0.09 [95% CI 0.06-0.15], p<0.001), indicating a loss of immunity. Vaccination in the first year of life does not pose a risk of non-immunity. The underlying liver disease influences the level of measles titres of twice-vaccinated patients; those with acute liver failure being the lowest compared to children with metabolic disease. In summary, vaccine response is poorer in children with liver disease. Liver transplant candidates should be vaccinated before transplantation even if this is earlier in the first year of life. Checking measles IgG and re-vaccinating seronegative patients may help to achieve immunity after transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Laue
- Division for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Paediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Norman Junge
- Division for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Paediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christoph Leiskau
- Paediatric Gastroenterology, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Frauke Mutschler
- Division for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Paediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Johanna Ohlendorf
- Division for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Paediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Baumann
- Division for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Paediatric Kidney, Liver, and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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3
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Keutler A, Lainka E, Posovszky C. Live-attenuated vaccination for measles, mumps, and rubella in pediatric liver transplantation. Pediatr Transplant 2024; 28:e14687. [PMID: 38317348 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections are a serious short- and long-term problem after pediatric organ transplantation. In immunocompromised patients, they can lead to transplant rejection or a severe course with a sometimes fatal outcome. Vaccination is an appropriate means of reducing morbidity and mortality caused by vaccine-preventable diseases. Unfortunately, due to the disease or its course, it is not always possible to establish adequate vaccine protection against live-attenuated viral vaccines (LAVVs) prior to transplantation. LAVVs such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are still contraindicated in solid organ transplant recipients receiving immunosuppressive therapy (IST), thus creating a dilemma. AIM This review discusses whether, when, and how live-attenuated MMR vaccines can be administered effectively and safely to pediatric liver transplant recipients based on the available data. MATERIAL AND METHODS We searched PubMed for literature on live-attenuated MMR vaccination in pediatric liver transplantation (LT). RESULTS Nine prospective observational studies and three retrospective case series were identified in which at least 833 doses of measles vaccine were administered to 716 liver transplant children receiving IST. In these selected patients, MMR vaccination was well tolerated and no serious adverse reactions to the vaccine were observed. In addition, an immune response to the vaccine was demonstrated in patients receiving IST. CONCLUSION Due to inadequate vaccine protection in this high-risk group, maximum efforts must be made to ensure full immunization. MMR vaccination could also be considered for unprotected patients after LT receiving IST following an individual risk assessment, as severe harm from live vaccines after liver transplantation has been reported only very rarely. To this end, it is important to establish standardized and simple criteria for the selection of suitable patients and the administration of the MMR vaccine to ensure safe use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Keutler
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Elke Lainka
- University Children's Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Carsten Posovszky
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Gastroenterology and Nutrition, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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4
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Viganò M, Beretta M, Lepore M, Abete R, Benatti SV, Grassini MV, Camagni S, Chiodini G, Vargiu S, Vittori C, Iachini M, Terzi A, Neri F, Pinelli D, Casotti V, Di Marco F, Ruggenenti P, Rizzi M, Colledan M, Fagiuoli S. Vaccination Recommendations in Solid Organ Transplant Adult Candidates and Recipients. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1611. [PMID: 37897013 PMCID: PMC10611006 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11101611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Prevention of infections is crucial in solid organ transplant (SOT) candidates and recipients. These patients are exposed to an increased infectious risk due to previous organ insufficiency and to pharmacologic immunosuppression. Besides infectious-related morbidity and mortality, this vulnerable group of patients is also exposed to the risk of acute decompensation and organ rejection or failure in the pre- and post-transplant period, respectively, since antimicrobial treatments are less effective than in the immunocompetent patients. Vaccination represents a major preventive measure against specific infectious risks in this population but as responses to vaccines are reduced, especially in the early post-transplant period or after treatment for rejection, an optimal vaccination status should be obtained prior to transplantation whenever possible. This review reports the currently available data on the indications and protocols of vaccination in SOT adult candidates and recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Viganò
- Gastroenterology Hepatology and Transplantation Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy (S.F.)
| | - Marta Beretta
- Pulmonary Medicine Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.M.)
| | - Marta Lepore
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.L.); (P.R.)
| | - Raffaele Abete
- Cardiology Division, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy (C.V.)
| | - Simone Vasilij Benatti
- Infectious Diseases Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (S.V.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Grassini
- Gastroenterology Hepatology and Transplantation Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy (S.F.)
- Section of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, PROMISE, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefania Camagni
- Department of Organ Failure and Transplantation, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (S.C.); (F.N.); (D.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Greta Chiodini
- Pulmonary Medicine Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.M.)
| | - Simone Vargiu
- Pulmonary Medicine Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.M.)
| | - Claudia Vittori
- Cardiology Division, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy (C.V.)
| | - Marco Iachini
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.L.); (P.R.)
| | - Amedeo Terzi
- Cardiothoracic Department, ASST Papa Giovanni XXII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy;
| | - Flavia Neri
- Department of Organ Failure and Transplantation, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (S.C.); (F.N.); (D.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Domenico Pinelli
- Department of Organ Failure and Transplantation, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (S.C.); (F.N.); (D.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Valeria Casotti
- Pediatric Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Transplantation Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy;
| | - Fabiano Di Marco
- Pulmonary Medicine Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.M.)
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20158 Milan, Italy
| | - Piero Ruggenenti
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (M.L.); (P.R.)
- Department of Renal Medicine, Clinical Research Centre for Rare Diseases “Aldo e Cele Daccò”, Institute of Pharmacologic Research “Mario Negri IRCCS”, Ranica, 24020 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Marco Rizzi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (S.V.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Michele Colledan
- Department of Organ Failure and Transplantation, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy; (S.C.); (F.N.); (D.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Stefano Fagiuoli
- Gastroenterology Hepatology and Transplantation Unit, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy (S.F.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Milan Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
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Velagala VR, Velagala NR, Singh A, Kumar T, Thakre S, Lamture Y. Immunological Nuances and Complications of Pediatric Organ Transplant: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e46309. [PMID: 37916238 PMCID: PMC10616683 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ transplantation is considered an exaggerated immune state in which the body reacts in an elaborate cascade of reactions against the lifesaving graft transplanted. Unrepairable organ damage is the main indication for a pediatric patient to undergo a transplant. The host and the donor must fulfill the criteria for a successful transplant to have as few side effects as possible. There has been much-needed research in the domain of surgery of organ transplantation, thereby extending into the pediatric age group. This article elaborates on the post-transplant management, the immuno-biochemistry aspect, and its post-surgery treatment. The post-surgery period requires great emphasis as morbidity and mortality are highest. There is much to understand about managing transplant patients to avoid complications such as infections, hypertension, or side effects of immunosuppressive drugs. The treating clinician faces the challenges of managing the dose and frequency of immuno-suppressive medicines to prevent complications in the patients. If the dose is inadequate, there are chances of graft rejection. If the immuno-suppression is prolonged, there may be chances of infections in the patient. This article aims to summarize the mechanism of graft rejection and put forth the need for further research about creating a universal protocol for managing a patient's immune system post-transplant. The authors hope this protocol will help the clinician better understand the patient's current state and help in appropriately using immuno-suppressive drugs. It calls upon the need for a reliable and easily repeatable battery of investigations that will help solve this dilemma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek R Velagala
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Namrata R Velagala
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Arihant Singh
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Tanishq Kumar
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Swedaj Thakre
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Yashwant Lamture
- Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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6
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Statler VA, Fox T, Ardura MI. Spotting a potential threat: Measles among pediatric solid organ transplantation recipients. Pediatr Transplant 2023; 27:e14502. [PMID: 36919399 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-vaccination rates worldwide have led to the re-emergence of vaccine-preventable infections, including measles. Immunocompromised patients, including pediatric solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, are at risk for measles because of suboptimal vaccination, reduced or waning vaccine immunity, lifelong immunosuppression, and global re-emergence of measles. OBJECTIVES To review published cases of measles in pediatric SOT recipients to heighten awareness of its clinical manifestations, summarize diagnostic and treatment strategies, and identify opportunities to optimize prevention. METHODS We conducted a literature review of published natural measles infections in SOT recipients ≤21 years of age, summarizing management and outcomes. We describe measles epidemiology, recommended diagnostics, treatment, and highlight prevention strategies. RESULTS There are seven published reports of measles infection in 12 pediatric SOT recipients, the majority of whom were unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated. Subjects had atypical or severe clinical presentations, including lack of rash and complications, most frequently with encephalitis and pneumonitis, resulting in 33% mortality. Updated recommendations on testing and vaccination are provided. Treatment options beyond supportive care and vitamin A are limited, with no approved antivirals. CONCLUSION While measles is infrequently reported in pediatric SOT recipients, morbidity and mortality remain significant. A high index of suspicion is warranted in susceptible SOT recipients with clinically compatible illness or exposure. Providers must recognize this risk, educate families, and be aware of both classic and atypical presentations of measles to rapidly identify, isolate, and diagnose measles in pediatric SOT recipients. Continued efforts to optimize measles vaccination both pre- and post-SOT are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Statler
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Norton Children's and University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Thomas Fox
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Monica I Ardura
- Department of Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases & Host Defense, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Critical Care and Mechanical Ventilation Practices Surrounding Liver Transplantation in Children: A Multicenter Collaborative. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2023; 24:102-111. [PMID: 36278882 DOI: 10.1097/pcc.0000000000003101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to determine which characteristics and management approaches were associated with postoperative invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and with a prolonged course of IMV in children post liver transplant as well as describing the utilization of critical care resources. DESIGN Retrospective, multicenter, cohort study of children who underwent an isolated liver transplantation between January 2017 and December 2018. SETTING Twelve U.S., pediatric, liver transplant centers. PATIENTS Three hundred thirty children post liver transplant admitted to the ICU. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Six patients died in our cohort. The median length of PICU stay was 4.5 days (interquartile range [IQR], 2.9-8.2 d). Most patients were initially monitored with arterial catheters (96%), central venous pressures (95%), and liver ultrasound (93%). Anticoagulation (80%), blood product administration (52.4%), and vasoactive agents (23.0%) were commonly used therapies in the first 7 days. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.9 [0.86-0.95]), open fascia (aOR 7.0 [95% CI, 2.6-18.9]), large center size (aOR 4.3 [95% CI 2.2-8.3]), and higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease/Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease scores (aOR 1.04 [95% CI, 1.01-1.06]) were associated with postoperative IMV. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, postoperative day 0 peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) (aOR 1.2 [95% CI, 1.1-1.3]), large center size (aOR 2.9 [95% CI, 1.6-5.4]), and age (aOR 0.89 [95% CI, 0.85-0.95]) were associated with length of IMV greater than 24 hours. Length of IMV greater than 24 hours was associated with bleeding complications ( p = 0.03), infections ( p = 0.03), graft loss ( p = 0.02), and reoperation ( p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Younger age, preoperative hospitalization, large center size, and open fascia are associated with use of IMV, and younger age, large center size, and postoperative day 0 PIP are associated with prolonged IMV on multivariable analysis. Longer IMV is associated with negative outcomes, making it an important clinical marker.
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Liman AYJ, Wozniak LJ, de St Maurice A, Dunkel GL, Wanlass EM, Venick RS, McDiarmid SV. Low post-transplant measles and varicella titers among pediatric liver transplant recipients: A 10-year single-center study. Pediatr Transplant 2022; 26:e14322. [PMID: 35582739 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccine preventable illnesses are important sources of morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs in pediatric LT recipients. Our aim was to measure the seroprevalence of antibodies to measles and VZV in this population. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of 44 patients who received LT before age 18 at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital from January 2008 to December 2017. RESULTS Median age at transplantation was 2.5 years (IQR 1.2-7.7). Post-transplant measles antibodies were present in 17 of 37 patients (46%); risk factors for seronegativity included younger age at transplant (p = .02) and greater time from transplant to testing (p = .04). Post-transplant VZV antibodies were present in 17 of 39 patients (44%); risk factors for seronegativity included greater time from transplant to testing (p = .04). 6 of 16 patients (38%) who tested positive for pre-transplant VZV antibodies tested negative after transplantation. Fourteen of 20 patients (70%) with at least 1 documented dose of the MMR vaccine tested positive for post-transplant measles antibodies. Ten of 20 of patients (50%) with at least 1 documented dose of the VZV vaccine tested positive for post-transplant VZV antibodies. We also describe 10 patients who received post-transplant measles and VZV vaccines without documented complications. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that pediatric LT patients are at greater risk of contracting measles and VZV despite vaccination status, and that prevalence of measles and VZV antibodies decreases as time from transplantation increases. This should weigh into the institutional risk-benefit assessment when deciding whether or not to administer LAVs to these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Y J Liman
- Department of Pediatrics, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Laura J Wozniak
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Annabelle de St Maurice
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Gregory L Dunkel
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Emy M Wanlass
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robert S Venick
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sue V McDiarmid
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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9
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Newman AM, Posch LC, Gianchetti L, Rand EB, Mohammad S, Downes KJ, Muller WJ. Live virus vaccination following pediatric liver transplantation: Outcomes from two academic children's hospitals. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:1201-1212. [PMID: 34967134 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.16937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric liver transplant (LT) recipients are often transplanted at a young age, precluding them from receiving live virus vaccinations (LVV) such as varicella (VZV) vaccine and measles, mumps and rubella. This places them at profound risk for vaccine preventable illness. We sought to detail safety of vaccination. This was a retrospective cohort study of pediatric LT recipients at two children's hospitals. Among 204 LT recipients included in the study, 97 received at least one LVV after LT. Six patients who did not receive LVV after transplant had evidence of vaccine-preventable infection following vaccination (one disseminated VZV disease, five VZV-related rash), while one patient who received LVV after transplant developed a diffuse VZV-related rash. Rejection rates were the same between those that did and did not receive a live virus vaccine post-transplant. There were no serious adverse events caused by vaccination post-transplant. LVV following LT was safe at our two institutions, although there exist limitations in our study due to its retrospective study design. Larger scale studies should be performed to evaluate the effectiveness of LVV in relation to immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Newman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Leila C Posch
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lauren Gianchetti
- Center for Pediatric Clinical Effectiveness (CPCE), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Rand
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Saeed Mohammad
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kevin J Downes
- Center for Pediatric Clinical Effectiveness (CPCE), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - William J Muller
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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10
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Gumm AJ, Lerret S, Zeman M, Rueter J, Huppler AR, Khan Z, Telega G, Vitola B. Quality improvement project to improve vaccinations in the pediatric liver transplant population. Pediatr Transplant 2021; 25:e14076. [PMID: 34185930 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A quality improvement approach was used to increase pediatric liver transplant recipient live and inactive vaccination rates by assessing titers and recommending vaccinations. METHODS A new screening and immunization process for both live and inactive vaccines was discussed with families at their annual visit. Antibody titers for varicella, measles, mumps, rubella, Haemophilus influenzae type B, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B were obtained. Specific criteria were developed for live virus vaccination candidacy. Vaccines were recommended based on patient titers and vaccination candidacy criteria. Surveillance for adverse effects to live vaccines was performed. Repeat titers were obtained approximately 1-month post-vaccine administration. RESULTS After PDSA cycle 1, 99% (71/72) of pediatric liver transplant patients had titers obtained. Live vaccines were recommended for 32 patients and 16 (50%) were vaccinated. Inactive vaccines were recommended to 64 patients, and 31 (48%) were vaccinated. Eight of 13 (62%) patients with follow-up titers achieved immunity for inactive vaccines. Zero patients had an adverse reaction to any live vaccine. Ten of 12 (83%) patients with follow-up titers achieved immunity from live vaccines. The most common barriers to receive live vaccines included not scheduling appointment with primary care provider (n = 3) and "non-vaccinators" (n = 3). CONCLUSIONS Administering live and inactive vaccines to select pediatric liver transplant patients appears to be safe and effective in our studied population. For PDSA cycle 2, we will continue our current practice and consider offering vaccines in transplant clinic, since this was a barrier to vaccination identified during PDSA cycle 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis J Gumm
- Divisions of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Stacee Lerret
- Divisions of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Matthew Zeman
- Divisions of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Janelle Rueter
- Divisions of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Anna R Huppler
- Divisions of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Zahida Khan
- Divisions of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Grzegorz Telega
- Divisions of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Bernadette Vitola
- Divisions of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Kemme S, Kohut TJ, Boster JM, Diamond T, Rand EB, Feldman AG. Live Vaccines in Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients: "To Give or Not to Give". Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2021; 18:204-210. [PMID: 34745579 PMCID: PMC8549714 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Content available: Author Audio Recording.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kemme
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and NutritionDigestive Health InstituteChildren’s Hospital ColoradoUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAnschutz Medical CampusAuroraCO
| | - Taisa J. Kohut
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and NutritionThe Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPA
| | - Julia M. Boster
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and NutritionDigestive Health InstituteChildren’s Hospital ColoradoUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAnschutz Medical CampusAuroraCO
| | - Tamir Diamond
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and NutritionThe Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPA
| | - Elizabeth B. Rand
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and NutritionThe Children's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPA
| | - Amy G. Feldman
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and NutritionDigestive Health InstituteChildren’s Hospital ColoradoUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAnschutz Medical CampusAuroraCO
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