Parasites After Hematopoietic Stem Cell or Solid Organ Transplantation

Parasitic infections in the setting of transplantation, although uncommon, are being increasingly recognized. They may represent a significant threat for a successful outcome. Extensive human travel and immigration, and climatic changes are re-shaping the epidemiology of parasitic infections, allowing for their emergence in unexpected settings. Transplant physicians should get familiar with parasitic infections and promote adherence to preventive measures in transplant recipients. Parasitic diseases in the transplant recipient may result from recrudescence of dormant or unrecognized parasitic infections in the potential transplant recipient after starting immunosuppression, or from de novo acquisition either from transmission of an infected graft or infected blood products, or by naturally occurring infection. Thorough knowledge of clinical manifestations and diagnostic methods for parasitic disease allows for early diagnosis, implementation of preventive measures, or for adequate monitoring to detect reactivation and initiation of timely pre-emptive treatment.