The role of cytomegalovirus serostatus on outcome of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Purpose of review The aim of this review is to discuss recent developments regarding the impact of cytomegalovirus (CMV) serological status of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients and their donors on transplant outcome. Recent findings CMV seropositivity of the recipient is still a negative factor for transplant outcome. The use of a CMV seropositive donor has a negative impact on survival in patients receiving unrelated but not human leukocyte antigen-identical sibling grafts. In CMV seropositive patients, the donor serological status influences outcome in patients receiving unrelated donor grafts after myeloablative but not reduced-intensity conditioning. Early CMV replication reduces the risk for leukemia relapse but does not improve survival. The use of leukocyte depleted blood products is sufficient to prevent primary CMV infection. Summary Despite major advances in management of CMV infections, CMV serologic status remains an important risk factor for transplant-related complications and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.