from Robin K. Avery writing in Cytomegaloviruses: From Molecular Pathogenesis to Intervention:
Heart and lung transplantation can be lifesaving therapies for end-stage organ disease in some patients. Despite advances in antiviral prevention, cytomegalovirus infection is still an important issue in post-transplant management and may contribute to survival-limiting dysfunction of the transplanted organ. This paper reviews the clinical presentations and risk factors for CMV infection in thoracic transplant recipients, as well as the direct and indirect effects of CMV. Recent studies on CMV-specific immunity and allograft dysfunction have shed further light on the differential benefits of prophylaxis and pre-emptive strategies for CMV prevention, as well as the potential benefits of an extended duration of prophylaxis. Finally, the development of newer anti-CMV agents holds promise for therapeutic management in the future.
Further reading: Cytomegaloviruses: From Molecular Pathogenesis to Intervention