Long-Term Infectious Complications of Kidney Transplantation

Infections remain a common complication of solid-organ transplantation. Most infections in the first month after transplant are typically health care?associated infections, whereas late infections, beyond 6?12 months, are community-acquired infections. Opportunistic infections most frequently present in the first 12 months post-transplant and can be modulated on prior exposures and use of prophylaxis. In this review, we summarize the current epidemiology of postkidney transplant infections with a focus on key viral (BK polyomavirus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and norovirus), bacterial (urinary tract infections and Clostridioides difficile colitis), and fungal infections. Current guidelines for safe living post-transplant are also summarized. Literature supporting prophylaxis and vaccination is also provided.

Automated summary

Infections after solid-organ transplantation are common, with healthcare-associated infections typically occurring in the first month post-transplant and community-acquired infections beyond 6-12 months. Opportunistic infections are most common in the first 12 months post-transplant. The review focuses on key viral, bacterial, and fungal infections, along with guidelines for safe living post-transplant. Literature supporting prophylaxis and vaccination is also provided.