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

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.