Limitations of EBV-PCR monitoring to detect EBV associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder

Pediatr Transplant. 2003 Jun;7(3):223-7. doi: 10.1034/j.1399-3046.2003.00080.x.

Abstract

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) represents a significant threat to the survival of pediatric transplant recipients. Epstein-Barr (EBV) viral load monitoring using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been reported to have a variable sensitively with relatively higher specificity as in an indicator of the development of PTLD. We report two cases of pathologically confirmed PTLD in children who failed to develop sustained increases in their EBV-PCR determined viral loads. We suggest that clinicians should be aware of the potential for false-negative results of EBV-PCR in pediatric transplant recipients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Infant
  • Kidney Transplantation*
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Male
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Viral Load

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents