Fulminant Toxoplasmosis in a Heart Transplant Recipient

Authors: Hermanns B.¹; Brunn A.²; Schwarz E.R.³; Sachweh J.S.⁴; Seipelt I.³; Schrder J.M.²; Vogel U.⁵; Schoendube F.A.⁴; Buettner R.¹

Source: Pathology Research and Practice, Volume 197, Number 3, March 2001 , pp. 211-215(5)

Publisher: Urban & Fischer

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $29.27 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

Toxoplasma gondii infections in heart transplant recipients emerge in most cases as newly acquired infections of the immunocompromised sero-negative patient from an exogenous source, usually the donor organ. We report on a 64-year-old heart transplant recipient who developed pneumonitis, myocarditis, and hyperacute encephalitis three weeks after transplantation. Histopathological examination of an endomyocardial biopsy revealed fulminant T. gondii infection. Although appropriate chemotherapy was administered immediately, the patient died the next day. Our case demonstrates that if a histological diagnosis is not rendered in time, fulminant toxoplasmosis may lead to a fatal outcome. In conclusion, a general screening of the donors and recipients for opportunistic infections, including toxoplasmosis, and an appropriate prophylaxis should always be considered.

Keywords: Toxoplasmosis; Heart transplantation; Endomyocardial biopsy; Polymerase chain reaction; Chemoprophylaxis

Language: English

Document Type: Miscellaneous

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1078/0344-0338-00036

Affiliations: 1: Institute of Pathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany 2: Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany 3: Medical Clinic I Cardiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany 4: Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany 5: Institute of Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Germany

Publication date: 2001-03-01