InfectionBacterial Infections
Pneumonia (lung infection) may occur. To help prevent pneumonia, recipients should faithfully follow the exercise program given to them by their physical therapist. Any phlegm or blood brought up from the lungs should be immediately reported to the patient's nurse, transplant coordinator, or local physician. A specific type of pneumonia, Pneumocystis carinii, can be very dangerous and may occur in people with suppressed immune systems, such as patients after transplant. Bactrim or Septra (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) may be prescribed to prevent this infection.
Urinary tract infections are another common problem, and patients should notify their nurse or transplant coordinator if they experience burning or pain while urinating or a frequent need to urinate.
Any time the incision becomes red, swollen, or is draining pus or fluid, patients should notify their nurse or transplant coordinator.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections may occur in the mouth, throat, or throughout the body in the blood; the greatest risk is in the first 3 months after transplant. Nystatin liquid, a liquid that can be swished around in the mouth and then swallowed, is commonly prescribed for some fungal infections.
For women with vaginal yeast infections, Monistat vaginal suppositories are prescribed.
Viral Infections
Viral infections, such as herpes, may occur after a liver transplant. This virus causes inflammation of the skin with collections of small blisters. One type of herpes infection is herpes simplex or a "cold sore". This infection may occur in the mouth or the vagina. Another type is herpes zoster or "shingles". This is the same virus that causes chicken pox, and it appears along the distribution of a nerve, often in the face, chest, or abdomen. Liver transplant recipients are prescribed acyclovir (Zovirax) after transplant to prevent herpes infections.
Another serious viral infection is caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV). CMV infections can occur in the liver, lungs (pneumonitis), eyes (retinitis), and rarely, the brain (encephalitis). During the transplant evaluation, the recipient's blood is tested for antibodies for CMV to see if he or she has been previously exposed to the virus. The liver donor has also been tested. Based on both of these tests, the recipient is categorized as being at 1) high risk, 2) moderate risk, or 3) low risk for CMV infection. Based upon the identified level of risk, medication dosage and duration will vary.
Source:www.theuniversityhospital.com
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
