The Epstein-Barr virus and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease: interplay of immunosuppression, EBV, and the immune system in disease pathogenesis

Transpl Infect Dis. 2001 Jun;3(2):60-9. doi: 10.1034/j.1399-3062.2001.003002060.x.

Abstract

Transplant patients are at particular risk for developing post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) following administration of immunosuppressive therapy. In many cases the PTLD lesions express Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) latent and lytic genes as well as elevated levels of host cytokines. An outline of the potential contributions of EBV, host cytokines and T cells, and the immunosuppressive cyclosporine A, tacrolimus, and anti-CD3 antibody in the mechanism and pathogenesis of this disease is presented and discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections* / immunology
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections* / physiopathology
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections* / virology
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / immunology
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / pathogenicity*
  • Humans
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders* / immunology
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders* / physiopathology
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders* / virology
  • Organ Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Postoperative Complications*