Disseminated adenovirus infection with respiratory failure in pediatric liver transplant recipients: Impact of intravenous cidofovir and inhaled nitric oxide

Abstract

Adenoviruses (AdV) are opportunistic pathogens that can lead to severe infections and respiratory failure (acute respiratory distress syndrome, ARDS) with high mortality in immunosuppressed patients. Cidofovir (CDV) has been used in adenoviral disease in bone marrow transplant recipients. Two pediatric liver transplant recipients with disseminated adenoviral disease and ARDS were treated with reduction of immunosuppression, CDV, and inhaled nitric oxide (iNO). CDV 1 mg/kg was given three times per week intravenously with intravenous hydration and oral probenecid. Viral suppression and clinical improvement was achieved. AdV hepatitis did not occur, and graft function was preserved, although acute rejection occurred in both patients. Adverse effects were mild and transient not requiring dose modification. Severe hypoxemia was reversed with iNO 10-20 p.p.m. CDV treatment of AdV infections in organ transplant recipients and other immunocompromised patients should be further investigated in prospective studies.