Infections in Pediatric Kidney Transplant Recipients

Infections after kidney transplant in children remain a significant problem. Infections can be viral (Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and BK virus), bacterial (urinary tract infections, wound infections, and pneumonia), or fungal (candidiasis and Pneumocystis jirovecii, formerly Pneumocystis carinii); all can have a significant negative impact on graft survival. Infections are typically defined as early (0-30 days posttransplant), intermediate (1-6 months posttransplant), or late (> 6 months posttransplant) depending on how far after transplant they occur. Here, we will review some of the common infections in children postkidney transplant.