Recurrent Cytomegalovirus Infection Controlled by the Introduction of Everolimus in a Simultaneous Pancreas-Kidney Transplantation Recipient: A Case Report

Abstract

In simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) recipients, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a major complication that has been associated with the use of tacrolimus (TAC)-based immunosuppression. As one of the immunosuppressive drug options, the use of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) results in reduced rates of CMV infection in the field of solid organ transplantation. However, little is known about mTORi usage in pancreas transplantation. We report a case of recurrent CMV infection that was controlled by the introduction of mTORi (everolimus) in addition to a TAC-based immunosuppression regimen in SPK. A 52-year-old man underwent SPK. Graft duodenal perforation occurred on the 13th day of surgery, and graft duodenal resection was performed after long-term abscess drainage treatment. After graft duodenal resection, he was diagnosed with CMV viremia, and valganciclovir was started. However, because of recurrent febrile neutropenia caused by cytopenia as a side effect of valganciclovir, there was a repeated need for granulocyte-colony stimulating factor treatment. Immunosuppressive drug taper adjustment was attempted to control recurrent CMV viremia, and everolimus was introduced with the aim of reducing the dose of TAC and mycophenolate mofetil. This resulted in a continuously negative CMV antigenemia test and a stable general condition. Understanding the characteristics of various immunosuppressive agents and appropriately controlling and managing infectious diseases is crucial for the good postoperative management of patients with SPK.