Bacteriophage therapy as a treatment option for transplant infections.

Abstract

Since initial description of the successful use of intravenous bacteriophage therapy in the United States in 2017, there is widespread interest in using bacteriophage therapy for multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections. Recent published cases of bacteriophage therapy in transplant candidates and recipients are reviewed highlighting its safety and potential efficacy when used as an adjunct to systemic antibiotics for a variety of clinical indications. An overview of access to bacteriophage therapy in the United States is also provided. The reviewed cases form the basis for ongoing compassionate use of bacteriophage therapy in transplant candidates and recipients with life-threatening MDR infections until data from clinical trials are available to guide therapy.