Documented 2009 H1N1 Influenza A infection in pediatric liver transplant patients--description and follow-up of 7 patients

Turk J Gastroenterol. 2012 Aug;23(4):366-70. doi: 10.4318/tjg.2012.0350.

Abstract

Background/aims: There is a paucity of data regarding pediatric liver transplant patients from Turkey and less so globally. We report here 7 pediatric cases with documented H1N1 nove Influenza A infection.

Material and methods: 7 pediatric liver transplant patients on immunesuppression, tested positive with PCR for 2009 H1N1 Influenza A, have been analyzed retrospectively. All patients were commenced oseltamivir treatment and 6 patients continued to take their immunosuppressive treatment.

Results: All patients (n=7) survived H1N1 novel Influenza A infection without any sequela. 1 patient has been admitted to Intensive Care Unit and has been discharged without any sequela. There was no graft dysfunction or loss during the infection episode.

Conclusion: 2009 H1N1 Influenza A infection did not cause any mortality among our patients. Oseltamivir treatment may have played a role for improving in our patients' condition. Immunosuppression can be continued in pediatric liver transplant patients with close monitoring of vital signs and graft function.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Infant
  • Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype*
  • Influenza, Human / drug therapy
  • Influenza, Human / immunology
  • Influenza, Human / virology*
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Oseltamivir / therapeutic use
  • Retrospective Studies

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Oseltamivir