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Preiksaitis J, Allen U, Bollard CM, Dharnidharka VR, Dulek DE, Green M, Martinez OM, Metes DM, Michaels MG, Smets F, Chinnock RE, Comoli P, Danziger-Isakov L, Dipchand AI, Esquivel CO, Ferry JA, Gross TG, Hayashi RJ, Höcker B, L'Huillier AG, Marks SD, Mazariegos GV, Squires J, Swerdlow SH, Trappe RU, Visner G, Webber SA, Wilkinson JD, Maecker-Kolhoff B. The IPTA Nashville Consensus Conference on Post-Transplant lymphoproliferative disorders after solid organ transplantation in children: III - Consensus guidelines for Epstein-Barr virus load and other biomarker monitoring. Pediatr Transplant 2024; 28:e14471. [PMID: 37294621 DOI: 10.1111/petr.14471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The International Pediatric Transplant Association convened an expert consensus conference to assess current evidence and develop recommendations for various aspects of care relating to post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders after solid organ transplantation in children. In this report from the Viral Load and Biomarker Monitoring Working Group, we reviewed the existing literature regarding the role of Epstein-Barr viral load and other biomarkers in peripheral blood for predicting the development of PTLD, for PTLD diagnosis, and for monitoring of response to treatment. Key recommendations from the group highlighted the strong recommendation for use of the term EBV DNAemia instead of "viremia" to describe EBV DNA levels in peripheral blood as well as concerns with comparison of EBV DNAemia measurement results performed at different institutions even when tests are calibrated using the WHO international standard. The working group concluded that either whole blood or plasma could be used as matrices for EBV DNA measurement; optimal specimen type may be clinical context dependent. Whole blood testing has some advantages for surveillance to inform pre-emptive interventions while plasma testing may be preferred in the setting of clinical symptoms and treatment monitoring. However, EBV DNAemia testing alone was not recommended for PTLD diagnosis. Quantitative EBV DNAemia surveillance to identify patients at risk for PTLD and to inform pre-emptive interventions in patients who are EBV seronegative pre-transplant was recommended. In contrast, with the exception of intestinal transplant recipients or those with recent primary EBV infection prior to SOT, surveillance was not recommended in pediatric SOT recipients EBV seropositive pre-transplant. Implications of viral load kinetic parameters including peak load and viral set point on pre-emptive PTLD prevention monitoring algorithms were discussed. Use of additional markers, including measurements of EBV specific cell mediated immunity was discussed but not recommended though the importance of obtaining additional data from prospective multicenter studies was highlighted as a key research priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jutta Preiksaitis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Upton Allen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and the Transplant and Regenerative Medicine Center, Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Catherine M Bollard
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Hospital, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Vikas R Dharnidharka
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Hypertension & Pheresis, Washington University School of Medicine & St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Daniel E Dulek
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michael Green
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Olivia M Martinez
- Department of Surgery and Program in Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Diana M Metes
- Departments of Surgery and Immunology, Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Marian G Michaels
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Françoise Smets
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Patrizia Comoli
- Cell Factory & Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lara Danziger-Isakov
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Anne I Dipchand
- Labatt Family Heart Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Judith A Ferry
- Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas G Gross
- Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Robert J Hayashi
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, St. Louis Children's Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Britta Höcker
- University Children's Hospital, Pediatrics I, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arnaud G L'Huillier
- Faculty of Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit and Laboratory of Virology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephen D Marks
- Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, University College London, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - George Vincent Mazariegos
- Department of Surgery, Hillman Center for Pediatric Transplantation, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James Squires
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Steven H Swerdlow
- Division of Hematopathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ralf U Trappe
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, DIAKO Ev. Diakonie-Krankenhaus Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II: Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Centre Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Gary Visner
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Steven A Webber
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - James D Wilkinson
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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2
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Zaffiri L, Chambers ET. Screening and Management of PTLD. Transplantation 2023; 107:2316-2328. [PMID: 36949032 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) represents a heterogeneous group of lymphoproliferative diseases occurring in the setting of immunosuppression following hematopoietic stem cells transplant and solid organ transplantation. Despite its overall low incidence, PTLD is a serious complication following transplantation, with a mortality rate as high as 50% in transplant recipients. Therefore, it is important to establish for each transplant recipient a personalized risk evaluation for the development of PTLD based on the determination of Epstein-Barr virus serostatus and viral load following the initiation of immunosuppression. Due to the dynamic progression of PTLD, reflected in the diverse pathological features, different therapeutic approaches have been used to treat this disorder. Moreover, new therapeutic strategies based on the administration of virus-specific cytotoxic T cells have been developed. In this review, we summarize the available data on screening and treatment to suggest a strategy to identify transplant recipients at a higher risk for PTLD development and to review the current therapeutic options for PTLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Zaffiri
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
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3
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Atallah-Yunes SA, Salman O, Robertson MJ. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder: Update on treatment and novel therapies. Br J Haematol 2023; 201:383-395. [PMID: 36946218 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is rare and heterogeneous lymphoid proliferations that occur as a result of immunosuppression following solid organ transplant (SOT) and haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) with the majority being driven by EBV. Although some histologies are similar to lymphoid neoplasms seen in immunocompetent patients, treatment of PTLD may be different due to difference in pathobiology and higher risk of treatment complications. The most common treatment approach in SOT PTLD after failing immunosuppression reduction (RIS) takes into consideration a risk-stratified sequential algorithm with rituximab +/- chemotherapy based on phase 2 studies. In HSCT PTLD, RIS alone and chemotherapy are usually ineffective making rituximab +/- RIS as the gold standard of frontline treatment. In this review, we give an update on the treatment of PTLD beyond RIS. We highlight the most recent studies that attempted to incorporate more aggressive chemotherapy regimens and novel treatments into the traditional risk-stratified sequential approach. We also discuss the role of EBV-cytotoxic T lymphocytes in treatment of EBV-driven PTLD. Other novel agents with potential role in PTLD will be discussed in addition to the challenges that could arise with chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suheil Albert Atallah-Yunes
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology - Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Omar Salman
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology - Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Michael J Robertson
- Lymphoma Program, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology - Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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4
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Allen UD, Preiksaitis JK. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders, Epstein-Barr virus infection, and disease in solid organ transplantation: Guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation Infectious Diseases Community of Practice. Clin Transplant 2019; 33:e13652. [PMID: 31230381 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.13652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PTLD with the response-dependent sequential use of RIS, rituximab, and cytotoxic chemotherapy is recommended. Evidence gaps requiring future research and alternate treatment strategies including immunotherapy are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upton D Allen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jutta K Preiksaitis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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5
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Strunz PP, Schmalzing M, Heidemeier A, Rasche L, Einsele H, Kortüm KM. Response to daratumumab in rituximab-resistant EBV-associated PTLD following allogenic stem cell transplantation from an EBV seronegative donor. Leuk Lymphoma 2019; 60:3573-3576. [DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1636981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick-Pascal Strunz
- Universitatsklinikum Wurzburg, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Marc Schmalzing
- Universitatsklinikum Wurzburg, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Anke Heidemeier
- Universitatsklinikum Würzburg, Radiologie, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Leo Rasche
- Universitatsklinikum Wurzburg, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Universitatsklinikum Wurzburg, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Wurzburg, Germany
| | - K. Martin Kortüm
- Universitatsklinikum Wurzburg, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Wurzburg, Germany
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Lytic EBV infection investigated by detection of Soluble Epstein-Barr virus ZEBRA in the serum of patients with PTLD. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10479. [PMID: 28874674 PMCID: PMC5585268 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09798-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The ZEBRA protein (encoded by the BZLF1 gene), is the major transcription factor of EBV, expressed upon EBV lytic cycle activation. Several studies highlighted the critical role of EBV lytic infection as a risk factor for lymphoproliferative disorders like post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD). Here, we use an antigen-capture ELISA assay specifically designed to detecting the circulating soluble ZEBRA (sZEBRA) in serum samples (threshold value determined at 40ng/mL). We retrospectively investigated a population of 66 transplanted patients comprising 35 PTLD. All the samples from a control population (30 EBV-seronegative subjects and 25 immunocompetent individuals with EBV serological reactivation), classified as sZEBRA < 40ng/mL were assigned as negative. At PTLD diagnosis, EBV genome (quantified by qPCR with EBV DNA>200 copies/mL) and sZEBRA were detectable in 51% and 60% of cases, respectively. In the patients who developed a pathologically-confirmed PTLD, the mean sZEBRA value in cases, was 399 ng/mL +/− 141 versus 53ng/mL +/− 7 in patients who did not (p < 0,001). This is the first report relating to the detection of the circulating ZEBRA in serum specimens, as well as the first analysis dealing with the lytic cycle of EBV in PTLD patients with this new biomarker.
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7
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Petrara MR, Giunco S, Serraino D, Dolcetti R, De Rossi A. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders: from epidemiology to pathogenesis-driven treatment. Cancer Lett 2015; 369:37-44. [PMID: 26279520 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLDs) represent the most severe complication of both solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is the main driver of PTLD, particularly those occurring early after transplantation. EBV-driven malignancies are associated with selective expression of latent viral proteins, but uncontrolled lytic replication may favor early phases of cell transformation. Besides immunodepression, persistent immune activation and chronic inflammation play an important role in both virus reactivation and expansion of EBV-infected B cells. EBV-induced immortalization requires the expression of telomerase. TERT, the rate-limiting component of the telomerase complex, is central in the switch from the lytic to the latent viral program, and TERT inhibition induces the EBV lytic cycle and cell death. Immunotherapy and combination of EBV lytic cycle inducers with antiviral drugs are promising strategies to improve the treatment of PTLD patients. This review is aimed at providing an update on the intriguing association between EBV and PTLD, mainly focusing on cases arising after kidney and liver transplantation, which account for the vast majority of transplants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Raffaella Petrara
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO)-IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano (PN), Italy; Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Giunco
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Diego Serraino
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO)-IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano (PN), Italy
| | - Riccardo Dolcetti
- Cancer Bio-Immunotherapy Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO)-IRCCS, National Cancer Institute, Aviano (PN), Italy
| | - Anita De Rossi
- Section of Oncology and Immunology, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Viral Oncology Unit, Istituto Oncologico Veneto (IOV)-IRCCS, Padova, Italy.
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8
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Cattoir L, Van Hende V, De Paepe P, Padalko E. Epstein-Barr virus serology and PCR: conflicting results in an immunocompetent host. A case report and review of literature. Acta Clin Belg 2014; 69:262-6. [PMID: 24916751 DOI: 10.1179/2295333714y.0000000037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We present the case of a 27-year-old immunocompetent man who progressively developed a generalized lymphadenopathy and B symptoms. Results of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) serology were suggestive for a past infection, but the EBV viral load in whole blood was high. Also, core needle biopsy of the largest lymph node showed an image which could fit an EBV-driven reactive lymphoproliferation. Despite the absence of an immune disorder, all medical evidence points to an EBV-driven lymphoproliferative proces. In immunocompetent patients, it seems extremely uncommon to detect a high EBV viral load in the absence of serological evidence of an acute EBV infection or reactivation. We reviewed literature on this topic and on the selection of the appropriate sample type for EBV PCR, as this is known to be a critical point. Serological testing for the diagnosis of EBV infection is the gold standard in immunocompetent patients. Measuring EBV viral load is only recommended when dealing with immunocompromised patients. Although extremely rare, this case report shows that there is a place for EBV PCR in certain situations in immunocompetent patients. Besides, there is still no consensus regarding the specimen of choice for the determination of the EBV viral load. The preferred specimen type seems to depend on the patient's underlying condition.
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9
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van der Velden WJFM, Mori T, Stevens WBC, de Haan AFJ, Stelma FF, Blijlevens NMA, Donnelly JP. Reduced PTLD-related mortality in patients experiencing EBV infection following allo-SCT after the introduction of a protocol incorporating pre-emptive rituximab. Bone Marrow Transplant 2013; 48:1465-71. [PMID: 23749107 DOI: 10.1038/bmt.2013.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 04/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The mortality associated with post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) induced by EBV infection can be reduced by monitoring EBV by polymerase-chain-reaction and rituximab given pre-emptively. We performed a retrospective analysis of the risk factors for the occurrence of EBV infection/disease and EBV-related mortality among 273 consecutive recipients of a T-cell-depleted allo-SCT during two periods: (a) before the implementation of a comprehensive protocol (2006-2008) and (b) afterwards (2009-2011). EBV infection was detected in 61 (22%) cases, and 28 cases were considered to have had EBV disease. Treatment with antithymocyte globulin was the most important risk factor (odds ratio (OR) 2.4; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3-4.2, P=0.001). After implementation of the protocol, in patients experiencing EBV infection, pre-emptive therapy was started more often and sooner (median 3 vs 6 days, P=0.002). Moreover, there were fewer cases of monomorphic PTLD (4/33 (12%) vs 11/28 (39%), P=0.01), and the EBV-related mortality was lower for patients experiencing EBV infection (2/33 (6%) vs 8/28 (29%), OR 0.2; 95% CI 0.05-0.9, P=0.03). The EBV protocol proved feasible and resulted in faster initiation of pre-emptive therapy, the diagnosis in an earlier stage of EBV disease, and decreased EBV-related mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- W J F M van der Velden
- 1] Department of Haematology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands [2] Nijmegen Institute for Infection, Inflammation and Immunity (N4i), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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10
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Allen UD, Preiksaitis JK. Epstein-Barr virus and posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder in solid organ transplantation. Am J Transplant 2013; 13 Suppl 4:107-20. [PMID: 23465004 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.12104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- U D Allen
- Department of Pediatrics, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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11
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Greijer AE, Stevens SJ, Verkuijlen SA, Juwana H, Fleig SC, Verschuuren EA, Hepkema BG, Cornelissen JJ, Brooimans RA, Verdonck LF, Middeldorp JM. Variable EBV DNA load distributions and heterogeneous EBV mRNA expression patterns in the circulation of solid organ versus stem cell transplant recipients. Clin Dev Immunol 2012; 2012:543085. [PMID: 23346186 PMCID: PMC3546457 DOI: 10.1155/2012/543085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2012] [Revised: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) driven post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is a heterogeneous and potentially life-threatening condition. Early identification of aberrant EBV activity may prevent progression to B-cell lymphoma. We measured EBV DNA load and RNA profiles in plasma and cellular blood compartments of stem cell transplant (SCT; n = 5), solid organ transplant recipients (SOT; n = 15), and SOT having chronic elevated EBV-DNA load (n = 12). In SCT, EBV DNA was heterogeneously distributed, either in plasma or leukocytes or both. In SOT, EBV DNA load was always cell associated, predominantly in B cells, but occasionally in T cells (CD4 and CD8) or monocytes. All SCT with cell-associated EBV DNA showed BARTs and EBNA1 expression, while LMP1 and LMP2 mRNA was found in 1 and 3 cases, respectively. In SOT, expression of BARTs was detected in all leukocyte samples. LMP2 and EBNA1 mRNA was found in 5/15 and 2/15, respectively, but LMP1 mRNA in only 1, coinciding with severe PTLD and high EBV DNA. CONCLUSION EBV DNA is differently distributed between white cells and plasma in SOT versus SCT. EBV RNA profiling in blood is feasible and may have added value for understanding pathogenic virus activity in patients with elevated EBV-DNA.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- B-Lymphocytes/immunology
- B-Lymphocytes/virology
- Child
- DNA, Viral/blood
- DNA, Viral/genetics
- DNA, Viral/immunology
- Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/blood
- Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/immunology
- Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/virology
- Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens/genetics
- Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens/immunology
- Female
- Herpesvirus 4, Human/genetics
- Herpesvirus 4, Human/immunology
- Humans
- Leukocytes/immunology
- Leukocytes/virology
- Lymphoproliferative Disorders/blood
- Lymphoproliferative Disorders/immunology
- Lymphoproliferative Disorders/virology
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Monocytes/immunology
- Monocytes/virology
- RNA, Messenger/biosynthesis
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/immunology
- RNA, Viral/biosynthesis
- RNA, Viral/genetics
- RNA, Viral/immunology
- Stem Cell Transplantation
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/virology
- Viral Load
- Viral Matrix Proteins/genetics
- Viral Matrix Proteins/immunology
- Viral Proteins/genetics
- Viral Proteins/immunology
- Young Adult
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Affiliation(s)
- A. E. Greijer
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S. J. Stevens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Hospital Maastricht, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - S. A. Verkuijlen
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H. Juwana
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S. C. Fleig
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E. A. Verschuuren
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, University Medical Centre Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - B. G. Hepkema
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J. J. Cornelissen
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R. A. Brooimans
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - L. F. Verdonck
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J. M. Middeldorp
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Bollard CM. Improving T-cell therapy for epstein-barr virus lymphoproliferative disorders. J Clin Oncol 2012; 31:5-7. [PMID: 23169505 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2012.43.5784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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13
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Nakai H, Kawamura Y, Sugata K, Sugiyama H, Enomoto Y, Asano Y, Ihira M, Ohashi M, Kato T, Yoshikawa T. Host factors associated with the kinetics of Epstein-Barr virus DNA load in patients with primary Epstein-Barr virus infection. Microbiol Immunol 2012; 56:93-8. [PMID: 22150751 DOI: 10.1111/j.1348-0421.2011.00410.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to elucidate the kinetics of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA load in serially collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with primary EBV infection, and to determine the correlated host factors. Blood samples were collected from 24 patients with primary EBV infection. EBV DNA copy numbers were measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Based on the kinetics of EBV DNA load, the 24 patients were divided into two groups: rapid regression and slow regression. Eighteen of the 24 patients (75%) were included in the slow regression and 6 (25%) in the rapid regression group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in clinical features and laboratory findings. However, acute phase (3 to 10 days after the onset of the illness) serum samples from six children in the slow regression and four in the rapid regression group revealed significantly higher serum interleukin (IL)-1β (P= 0.018), IL-12 (P= 0.009), tumor necrosis factor-α (P= 0.019), interferon-inducible protein 10, and monokine induced by interferon γ concentrations in the rapid regression than the slow regression group. On the other hand, sera from six children in the slow regression and four in the rapid regression group in the convalescent phase (14 to 21 days after the onset of the illness) showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups in these biomarker concentrations. Based on this, it was concluded that the kinetics of EBV DNA load can be divided to two different patterns after primary EBV infection, and immune response might be associated with viral clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Nakai
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
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14
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Volfova P, Lengerova M, Winterova J, Racil Z, Dvorakova D, Mayer J. Monitoring of Epstein–Barr virus load in patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Infection 2012; 40:583-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s15010-012-0262-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Jones K, Nourse JP, Keane C, Crooks P, Gottlieb D, Ritchie DS, Gill D, Gandhi MK. Tumor-specific but not nonspecific cell-free circulating DNA can be used to monitor disease response in lymphoma. Am J Hematol 2012; 87:258-65. [PMID: 22213215 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.22252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2011] [Revised: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 11/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Recently, nontumor specific circulating DNA was shown to be elevated in a broad range of lymphomas, implicating a role as a potential biomarker. Epstein-Barr virus' (EBV) presence within a proportion of lymphomas implies EBV-DNA has potential as a lymphoma-specific disease response biomarker. However, application would be restricted to EBV-associated lymphomas. Neither detailed comparison has been performed of lymphoma-specific versus nonspecific DNA as disease response biomarkers nor have the kinetics of circulating DNA during treatment been established, and the optimal methodology remains unknown. We prospectively evaluated DNA levels and clinical response of 63 lymphoma patients. DNA was measured in paired serum, plasma, and cell samples at five predetermined time-points taken prior, during and following treatment. Both cell-free (c-f) circulating EBV-DNA (in EBV-associated lymphoma) and nonspecific c-f DNA levels (in all lymphomas) were elevated and discriminatory at presentation compared to healthy controls. Nonspecific c-f DNA was significantly associated with baseline serum lactate dehydrogenase. Within EBV-associated lymphomas at presentation, there was a strong correlation between specific and nonspecific circulating c-f DNA (r = 0.9, P < 0.0001). However, only c-f EBV-DNA correlated with clinical/radiological response. In addition, c-f EBV-DNA, and not nonspecific c-f DNA, provided an early marker of relapsed and refractory disease. Serum versus plasma, and single versus multiple-copy EBV-gene targets were equivalent. Lymphoma-specific DNA is a disease response biomarker; however, nonspecific DNA reflected neither lymphoma-specific DNA nor therapeutic response. Lymphoma disease response can be monitored by blood tests, but new lymphoma-specific biomarkers need to be identified to broaden applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley Jones
- Clinical Immunohaematology Laboratory, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Australia
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16
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CD27 deficiency is associated with combined immunodeficiency and persistent symptomatic EBV viremia. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011; 129:787-793.e6. [PMID: 22197273 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2011.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2011] [Revised: 10/09/2011] [Accepted: 11/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CD27 is a lymphocyte costimulatory molecule that regulates T-cell, natural killer (NK) cell, B-cell, and plasma cell function, survival, and differentiation. On the basis of its function and expression pattern, we considered CD27 a candidate gene in patients with hypogammaglobulinemia. OBJECTIVE We sought to describe the clinical and immunologic phenotypes of patients with genetic CD27 deficiency. METHODS A molecular and extended immunologic analysis was performed on 2 patients lacking CD27 expression. RESULTS We identified 2 brothers with a homozygous mutation in CD27 leading to absence of CD27 expression. Both patients had persistent symptomatic EBV viremia. The index patient was hypogammaglobulinemic, and immunoglobulin replacement therapy was initiated. His brother had aplastic anemia in the course of his EBV infection and died from fulminant gram-positive bacterial sepsis. Immunologically, lack of CD27 expression was associated with impaired T cell-dependent B-cell responses and T-cell dysfunction. CONCLUSION Our findings identify a role for CD27 in human subjects and suggest that this deficiency can explain particular cases of persistent symptomatic EBV viremia with hypogammaglobulinemia and impaired T cell-dependent antibody generation.
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Peric Z, Cahu X, Chevallier P, Brissot E, Malard F, Guillaume T, Delaunay J, Ayari S, Dubruille V, Le Gouill S, Mahé B, Gastinne T, Blin N, Saulquin B, Harousseau JL, Moreau P, Coste-Burel M, Imbert-Marcille BM, Mohty M. Features of EBV reactivation after reduced intensity conditioning unrelated umbilical cord blood transplantation. Bone Marrow Transplant 2011; 47:251-7. [PMID: 21441959 DOI: 10.1038/bmt.2011.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This single centre study assessed the incidence, kinetics and predictive factors of EBV reactivation and EBV-related lymphoproliferative diseases (LPD) in 33 consecutive patients who received a reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) before umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT). During the first 6 months after UCBT, weekly all patients were DNA-PCR screened in the peripheral blood for EBV reactivation and were clinically monitored for clinical features attributable to EBV. The cumulative incidences of EBV reactivation (defined as an EBV load >1000 EBV copies per 10(5) cells measured at least once during follow-up) at 6 months and 2 years after UCBT were 9 (95% confidence interval (CI), 2-22%) and 17% (95% CI, 6-33%), respectively. In 28 patients (85%), the EBV load remained negative at all times, and none of these patients experienced any sign of LPD. Five patients (15%) experienced at least one EBV reactivation episode. EBV reactivation was observed at a median of 132 days (range, 85-438) after UCBT. Two patients developed EBV-related LPD (cumulative incidence, 6% at 3 years). With a median follow-up of 468 days (range, 92-1277) post UCBT, the OS was 62% at 3 years. Five patients died of disease progression and seven patients died of transplant-related complications, including one case of EBV-related LPD. Univariate analysis did not identify any significant risk factor associated with EBV reactivation. We conclude that patients undergoing RIC UCBT are at risk for EBV reactivation, with the need for close EBV monitoring and the use of preemptive rituximab treatment as some cases may progress to life-threatening LPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Peric
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire (CHU) de Nantes, Nantes, France
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Features of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) reactivation after reduced intensity conditioning allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Leukemia 2011; 25:932-8. [PMID: 21350556 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2011.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
This single centre study assessed the incidence, kinetics and predictive factors of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) reactivation and EBV-related lymphoproliferative diseases (LPDs) in 175 consecutive patients who received a reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) before allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The cumulative incidence of EBV reactivation at 6 months after allo-HSCT defined as an EBV PCR load above 1000 copies of EBV DNA/10(5) cells was 15%, and none of these patients experienced any sign or symptom of LPD. A total of 17 patients, who had EBV DNA levels exceeding 1000 copies/10(5) cells on two or more occasions, were pre-emptively treated with rituximab. With a median follow-up of 655 (range, 92-1542) days post allo-HSCT, there was no statistically significant difference in term of outcome between those patients who experienced an EBV reactivation and those who did not. In multivariate analysis, the use of antithymocyte globulin as part of the RIC regimen was the only independent risk factor associated with EBV reactivation (relative risk=4.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-21.0; P=0.03). We conclude that patients undergoing RIC allo-HSCT using anti-thymocyte globulin as part of the preparative regimen are at higher risk for EBV reactivation. However, this did not impact on outcome, as quantitative monitoring of EBV viral load by PCR and preemptive rituximab therapy allowed for significantly reducing the risk of EBV-related LPD.
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19
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Lay MLJ, Lucas RM, Ratnamohan M, Taylor J, Ponsonby AL, Dwyer DE. Measurement of Epstein-Barr virus DNA load using a novel quantification standard containing two EBV DNA targets and SYBR Green I dye. Virol J 2010; 7:252. [PMID: 20860842 PMCID: PMC2958162 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-7-252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2010] [Accepted: 09/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Reactivation of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection may cause serious, life-threatening complications in immunocompromised individuals. EBV DNA is often detected in EBV-associated disease states, with viral load believed to be a reflection of virus activity. Two separate real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) assays using SYBR Green I dye and a single quantification standard containing two EBV genes, Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA-1) and BamHI fragment H rightward open reading frame-1 (BHRF-1), were developed to detect and measure absolute EBV DNA load in patients with various EBV-associated diseases. EBV DNA loads and viral capsid antigen (VCA) IgG antibody titres were also quantified on a population sample. Results EBV DNA was measurable in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) whole blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples. EBV DNA loads were detectable from 8.0 × 102 to 1.3 × 108 copies/ml in post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (n = 5), 1.5 × 103 to 2.0 × 105 copies/ml in infectious mononucleosis (n = 7), 7.5 × 104 to 1.1 × 105 copies/ml in EBV-associated haemophagocytic syndrome (n = 1), 2.0 × 102 to 5.6 × 103 copies/ml in HIV-infected patients (n = 12), and 2.0 × 102 to 9.1 × 104 copies/ml in the population sample (n = 218). EBNA-1 and BHRF-1 DNA were detected in 11.0% and 21.6% of the population sample respectively. There was a modest correlation between VCA IgG antibody titre and BHRF-1 DNA load (rho = 0.13, p = 0.05) but not EBNA-1 DNA load (rho = 0.11, p = 0.11). Conclusion Two sensitive and specific real-time PCR assays using SYBR Green I dye and a single quantification standard containing two EBV DNA targets, were developed for the detection and measurement of EBV DNA load in a variety of clinical samples. These assays have application in the investigation of EBV-related illnesses in immunocompromised individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meav-Lang J Lay
- Virology Department, Centre For Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Institute Road, Westmead Hospital, Westmead 2145, New South Wales, Australia.
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Using Epstein-Barr viral load assays to diagnose, monitor, and prevent posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder. Clin Microbiol Rev 2010; 23:350-66. [PMID: 20375356 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00006-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA measurement is being incorporated into routine medical practice to help diagnose, monitor, and predict posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) in immunocompromised graft recipients. PTLD is an aggressive neoplasm that almost always harbors EBV DNA within the neoplastic lymphocytes, and it is often fatal if not recognized and treated promptly. Validated protocols, commercial reagents, and automated instruments facilitate implementation of EBV load assays by real-time PCR. When applied to either whole blood or plasma, EBV DNA levels reflect clinical status with respect to EBV-related neoplasia. While many healthy transplant recipients have low viral loads, high EBV loads are strongly associated with current or impending PTLD. Complementary laboratory assays as well as histopathologic examination of lesional tissue help in interpreting modest elevations in viral load. Circulating EBV levels in serial samples reflect changes in tumor burden and represent an effective, noninvasive tool for monitoring the efficacy of therapy. In high-risk patients, serial testing permits early clinical intervention to prevent progression toward frank PTLD. Restoring T cell immunity against EBV is a major strategy for overcoming PTLD, and novel EBV-directed therapies are being explored to thwart virus-driven neoplasia.
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21
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Gärtner B, Preiksaitis JK. EBV viral load detection in clinical virology. J Clin Virol 2010; 48:82-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2010.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2010] [Accepted: 03/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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22
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Gross TG, Savoldo B, Punnett A. Posttransplant lymphoproliferative diseases. Pediatr Clin North Am 2010; 57:481-503, table of contents. [PMID: 20371048 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2010.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The risk of developing cancer after solid organ transplantation (SOT) is about 5- to 10-fold greater than that of the general population. The cumulative risk of cancer rises to more than 50% at 20 years after transplant and increases with age, and so children receiving transplants are at high risk of developing a malignancy. Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is the most common cancer observed in children following SOT, accounting for half of all such malignancies. PTLD is a heterogeneous group of disorders with a wide spectrum of pathologic and clinical manifestations and is a major contributor to long-term morbidity and mortality in this population. Among children, most cases are associated with Epstein-Barr virus infection. This article reviews the pathology, immunobiology, epidemiology, and clinical aspects of PTLD, underscoring the need for ongoing systematic study of complex biologic and therapeutic questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G Gross
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Nationwide Children's Hospital, OSU School of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
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23
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Allen U, Preiksaitis J. Epstein-barr virus and posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder in solid organ transplant recipients. Am J Transplant 2009; 9 Suppl 4:S87-96. [PMID: 20070701 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2009.02898.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- U Allen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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24
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Blaes AH, Cao Q, Wagner JE, Young JAH, Weisdorf DJ, Brunstein CG. Monitoring and preemptive rituximab therapy for Epstein-Barr virus reactivation after antithymocyte globulin containing nonmyeloablative conditioning for umbilical cord blood transplantation. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2009; 16:287-91. [PMID: 19835968 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2009.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2009] [Accepted: 10/08/2009] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Epstein Barr viremia (EBV) and posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) are complications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The use of antithymocyte globulin (ATG) in recipients of umbilical cord HSCT is a known risk factor for the development of PTLD. In this high-risk population, we implemented an EBV monitoring program with preemptive therapy with rituximab (375 mg/m(2) intravenously [i.v.]) for EBV viremia (>1000 copies/mL). Eight of 35 patients treated with a UCB HSCT between 2007 and 2009, developed EBV viremia. Two of 7 developed PTLD (with 1 of the 2 dying of PTLD), despite prophylactic rituximab use. When compared with our previously described cohort where 6 of 30 developed EBV viremia and 5 of 6 patients developed PTLD (with 2 of 5 dying of PTLD), the incidence of PTLD appears to be less when prophylactic rituximab is administered. Despite small numbers, our observations suggest that in this high-risk population, EBV monitoring accompanied by preemptive therapy may reduce the risk of progression to life-threatening PTLD; further follow-up of this cohort and a larger multi-institutional prospective study of this preemptive strategy is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne H Blaes
- University of Minnesota Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
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25
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Antiviral responses following L-leucyl-L-leucine methyl esther (LLME)-treated lymphocyte infusions: graft-versus-infection without graft-versus-host disease. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2009; 15:1609-19. [PMID: 19744572 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbmt.2009.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2007] [Accepted: 08/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Although allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplant (HPCT) is curative therapy for many disorders, it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, which can be related to graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and the immunosuppressive measures required for its prevention and/or treatment. Whether the immunosuppression is pharmacologic or secondary to graft manipulation, the graft recipient is left at increased risk of the threatening opportunistic infection. Refractory viral diseases in the immunocompromised host have been treated by infusion of virus-specific lymphotyces and by unmanipulated donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) therapy. L-leucyl-L-leucine methyl ester (LLME) is a compound that induces programmed cell death of natural killer (NK) cells, monocytes, granulocytes, most CD8(+) T cells, and a small fraction of CD4(+) T cells. We have undertaken a study of the use of LLME-treated DLI following T cell-depleted allogeneic HPCT, specifically to aid with immune reconstitution. In this ongoing clinical trial, we have demonstrated the rapid emergence of virus-specific responses following LLME DLI with minimal associated GVHD. This paper examines the pace of immune recovery and the rapid development of antiviral responses in 6 patients who developed viral infections during the time period immediately preceding or coincident with the administration of the LLME DLI.
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26
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Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoproliferative disease after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation: molecular monitoring and early treatment of high-risk patients. Curr Opin Hematol 2009; 15:576-85. [PMID: 18832928 DOI: 10.1097/moh.0b013e328311f438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoproliferative disease (EBV-LPD) is a rare but serious complication in recipients of allogeneic stem cell transplants. An overview is given of the incidence, monitoring and (early) treatment of EBV-LPD. RECENT FINDINGS The most important risk factor for EBV-LPD is the use of in-vivo T-cell depletion with antithymocyteglobulin. In addition, alternative donor stem cell transplantation is associated with an increased risk for EBV-LPD. Monitoring of EBV DNA in high-risk patients and subsequent early treatment is very successful, resulting in a low EBV-associated mortality. The monitoring of EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes might further increase the positive predictive value of EBV DNAemia for EBV-LPD. Once overt EBV-LPD has been diagnosed, rituximab treatment is indicated, guided by monitoring of EBV DNA. The infusion of donor lymphocytes is highly effective, but may be complicated by graft-versus-host disease. Therefore, the infusion of T cells, which have been depleted of alloreactive cells, is currently receiving attention. SUMMARY EBV DNA levels should be monitored in patients with high-risk features. Early treatment may be instituted at predefined DNA levels (preemptive approach) or at the earliest signs of LPD (prompt approach). Stepwise treatment guided by EBV DNA, including interruption of immunosuppression, rituximab, and adoptive T-cell immunotherapy may all add to the low mortality currently associated with LPD following allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
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27
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Preiksaitis JK, Pang XL, Fox JD, Fenton JM, Caliendo AM, Miller GG. Interlaboratory comparison of epstein-barr virus viral load assays. Am J Transplant 2009; 9:269-79. [PMID: 19178414 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2008.02514.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
To assess interlaboratory variability in qualitative and quantitative Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viral load (VL) testing, we distributed a panel of samples to 28 laboratories in the USA, Canada and Europe who performed testing using commercially available reagents (n = 12) or laboratory-developed assays (n = 18). The panel included two negatives, seven constructed samples using Namalwa and Molt-3 cell lines diluted in plasma (1.30-5.30 log(10) copies/mL) and three clinical plasma samples. Significant interlaboratory variation was observed for both actual (range 1.30-4.30 log(10) copies/mL) and self-reported (range, 1.70-3.30 log(10) copies/mL) lower limits of detection. The variation observed in reported results on individual samples ranged from 2.28 log(10) (minimum) to 4.14 log(10) (maximum). Variation was independent of dynamic range and use of commercial versus laboratory-developed assays. Overall, only 47.0% of all results fell within acceptable standards of variation: defined as the expected result +/- 0.50 log(10). Interlaboratory variability on replicate samples was significantly greater than intralaboratory variability (p < 0.0001). Kinetics of change in VL appears more relevant than absolute values and clinicians should understand the uncertainty associated with absolute VL values at their institutions. The creation of an international reference standard for EBV VL assay calibration would be an initial important step in quality improvement of this laboratory tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Preiksaitis
- Provincial Laboratory for Public Health (Microbiology), Alberta, Canada.
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28
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Styczynski J, Reusser P, Einsele H, de la Camara R, Cordonnier C, Ward KN, Ljungman P, Engelhard D. Management of HSV, VZV and EBV infections in patients with hematological malignancies and after SCT: guidelines from the Second European Conference on Infections in Leukemia. Bone Marrow Transplant 2008; 43:757-70. [PMID: 19043458 DOI: 10.1038/bmt.2008.386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 244] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
These guidelines on the management of HSV, VZV and EBV infection in patients with hematological malignancies and after SCT were prepared by the European Conference on Infections in Leukemia following a predefined methodology. A PubMed search was conducted using the appropriate key words to identify studies pertinent to management of HSV, VZV and EBV infections. References of relevant articles and abstracts from recent hematology and SCT scientific meetings were also reviewed. Prospective and retrospective studies identified from the data sources were evaluated, and all data deemed relevant were included in this analysis. The clinical and scientific background was described and discussed, and the quality of evidence and level of recommendation were graded according to the Centers for Disease Control criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Styczynski
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Collegium Medicum UMK, Bydgoszcz, Poland
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29
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Sumida T, Kitadai Y, Masuda H, Shinagawa K, Tanaka M, Kodama M, Kuroda T, Hiyama T, Tanaka S, Nakayama H, Yoshihara M, Yoshino T, Chayama K. Rapid progression of Epstein-Barr-virus-positive gastric diffuse large B-cell lymphoma during chemoradiotherapy: a case report. Clin J Gastroenterol 2008; 1:105-109. [PMID: 26193647 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-008-0020-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2008] [Accepted: 05/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A 61-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with epigastralgia and appetite loss. Barium examination and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed uneven erythematous mucosa with multiple elevated lesions from the gastric fornix to the upper corpus. Abdominal computed tomography showed thickening of the wall of the fornix and swelling of perigastric lymph nodes, but whole-body gallium scintigraphy and bone marrow examination did not indicate further involvement. Biopsy specimens showed diffuse infiltration of large atypical lymphoid cells in which Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) was detected by in situ hybridization. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), stage II1, was diagnosed. Combination chemotherapy [cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP)], was given, and this was followed by radiotherapy. Partial remission was achieved by chemotherapy, but the disease progressed rapidly during radiotherapy. Because the reported prognosis of EBV-positive DLBCL is unfavorable, the therapeutic strategy for EBV-positive gastric DLBCL should be considered carefully.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Sumida
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Kitadai
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Masuda
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kei Shinagawa
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Miwako Tanaka
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Michiyo Kodama
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kuroda
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Toru Hiyama
- Health Service Center, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shinji Tanaka
- Department of Endoscopy, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Nakayama
- Department of Pathology, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima, Japan
| | | | - Tadashi Yoshino
- Department of Pathology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical Science, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
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30
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Machado ASC, Apa AG, Magalhães de Rezende LM, Amoêdo ND, Rumjanek FD, Bacchi CE, Klumb CE. Plasma Epstein-Barr viral load predicting response after chemotherapy for post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease. Clin Exp Med 2008; 8:129-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s10238-008-0168-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2007] [Accepted: 01/24/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects various cell types in a wide spectrum of benign and malignant diseases. Laboratory tests for EBV have improved and are increasingly used in diagnosis, prognosis, prediction, and prevention of diseases ranging from infectious mononucleosis to selected subtypes of lymphoma, sarcoma, and carcinoma. Indeed, the presence of EBV is among the most effective tumor markers supporting clinical management of cancer patients. In biopsies, localization of EBER transcripts by in situ hybridization remains the gold standard for identifying latent infection. Other RNA- and protein-based assays detect lytic viral replication and can distinguish carcinoma-derived from lymphocyte-derived EBV in saliva or nasopharyngeal brushings. Analysis of blood using EBV viral load and serology reflects disease status and risk of progression. This review summarizes prior research in the context of basic virologic principles to provide a rational strategy for applying and interpreting EBV tests in various clinical settings. Such assays have been incorporated into standard clinical practice in selected settings such as diagnosis of primary infection and management of patients with immune dysfunction or nasopharyngeal carcinoma. As novel therapies are developed that target virus-infected cells or overcome the adverse effects of infection, laboratory testing becomes even more critical for determining when intervention is appropriate and the extent to which it has succeeded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret L Gulley
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7525, USA.
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Meerbach A, Wutzler P, Häfer R, Zintl F, Gruhn B. Monitoring of Epstein-Barr virus load after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for early intervention in post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease. J Med Virol 2008; 80:441-54. [PMID: 18205222 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.21096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease is a life-threatening complication following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction to evaluate EBV-genome copy numbers based on a nested polymerase chain reaction and an end-point dilution was used. Applying this assay EBV load was prospectively screened weekly in 123 patients after transplantation. The results demonstrate that EBV reactivations with more than 1,000 EBV-genome copies measured in 10(5) peripheral blood mononuclear cells were observed in 31 patients (25.2%). Three patients developed lymphoproliferative disease with extremely high EBV-genome copies in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (>100,000 copies/10(5) cells) and plasma. After combined antiviral and immune therapy two of three patients showed a dramatic decrease of EBV load and survived, while the third patient died of lymphoma. A subclinical EBV reactivation was observed in 24 cases (19.5%) with EBV-genome copies in 10(5) peripheral blood mononuclear cells ranging between 2,500 and mostly 10,000. After reduction of immunosuppression the EBV levels normalized. In four patients, the high copy number of > or =80,000 copies/10(5) peripheral blood mononuclear cells and plasma positivity prompted us to start pre-emptive therapy with rituximab and cidofovir for prevention of lymphoproliferative disease. After drug administration the high EBV load was reduced remarkably. Ninety-two patients (74.8%) who had < or =1,000 copies/10(5) peripheral blood mononuclear cells did not develop EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disease. In conclusion, monitoring of EBV load is a sensitive and useful parameter in the surveillance of EBV reactivation for early intervention in EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disease as well as for follow-up of the efficacy of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Meerbach
- Institute of Virology and Antiviral Therapy, Medical Center, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
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Dolcetti R. B lymphocytes and Epstein-Barr virus: the lesson of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders. Autoimmun Rev 2007; 7:96-101. [PMID: 18035317 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2007.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human gamma-herpes virus that establishes a life-long asymptomatic infection in immunocompetent hosts by colonizing memory B lymphocytes and hijacking cellular signaling pathways that regulate antigen-dependent B-cell activation and differentiation. In patients with solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the defect in EBV-specific immune responses may allow the outgrowth of EBV-carrying B lymphocytes that may give rise to a spectrum of different clinico-pathologic entities encompassed by the term post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD). EBV-driven immortalization of B-cells is mediated by the cooperative activity of viral proteins that derange critical cellular pathways controlling growth and/or survival of B lymphocytes. Full transformation of infected B-cells is achieved by the contribution of poorly defined additional co-factors, including microenvironmental stimuli, genetic and epigenetic alterations. The quantification of circulating EBV DNA and EBV-specific T cells are valuable tools in the clinical monitoring of EBV-associated PTLD. The recent advances in elucidation of the mechanisms underlying EBV-induced growth transformation will be instrumental in guiding the design of novel approaches for the treatment of these often life-threatening lymphoproliferative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Dolcetti
- Immunovirology and Biotherapy Unit, Department of Pre-Clinical and Epidemiological Research C.R.O. - I.R.C.C.S., National Cancer Institute, 33081 Aviano (PN), Italy.
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Fleischhacker M, Schmidt B. Circulating nucleic acids (CNAs) and cancer--a survey. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2006; 1775:181-232. [PMID: 17137717 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2006.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 418] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2006] [Revised: 10/04/2006] [Accepted: 10/04/2006] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
It has been known for decades that it is possible to detect small amounts of extracellular nucleic acids in plasma and serum of healthy and diseased human beings. The unequivocal proof that part of these circulating nucleic acids (CNAs) is of tumor origin, initiated a surge of studies which confirmed and extended the original observations. In the past few years many experiments showed that tumor-associated alterations can be detected at the DNA and RNA level. At the DNA level the detection of point mutations, microsatellite alterations, chromosomal alterations, i.e. inversion and deletion, and hypermethylation of promoter sequences were demonstrated. At the RNA level the overexpression of tumor-associated genes was shown. These observations laid the foundation for the development of assays for an early detection of cancer as well as for other clinical means.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Fleischhacker
- Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Medizinische Klinik mS Onkologie u Hämatologie, CCM, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
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Greenfield HM, Gharib MI, Turner AJL, Guiver M, Carr T, Will AM, Wynn RF. The impact of monitoring Epstein-Barr virus PCR in paediatric bone marrow transplant patients: can it successfully predict outcome and guide intervention? Pediatr Blood Cancer 2006; 47:200-5. [PMID: 16206207 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.20604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) associated lymphoproliferative disease is a complication of haemopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In certain groups (unrelated and mismatched donor transplants, T-cell depleted) the risk may be as high as 25% with significant morbidity and mortality. Strategies to predict the impending development of this disorder and allow early intervention have therefore assumed importance. We routinely screen the peripheral blood of all recipients of allogeneic HSCT to detect EBV DNA by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology and report here how this correlates with clinical disease and management. PROCEDURE Data on 28 successive patients who underwent HSCT at our institution were reviewed. The relationship between EBV reactivation demonstrated by quantitative PCR and development of post transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) was determined. RESULTS EBV reactivation occurred in 68% of patients, however only 7% developed clinical PTLD. Patients with high level reactivation (n = 9) had more frequent episodes of reactivation and all patients who progressed to overt PTLD were found in this group. In contrast none of those patients with low level reactivation (n = 10) or persistently negative results (n = 9) showed any signs of clinical disease. Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (Rituximab) therapy was instigated in both cases of proven PTLD and three cases of high level reactivation with successful outcomes. Response to treatment was associated with a prompt decline in viral copy number. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that EBV reactivation is a common occurrence in the paediatric allogeneic transplant setting and that only a proportion of patients will progress to PTLD. Frequent monitoring may help to predict those at highest risk and guide intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley M Greenfield
- Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Pendlebury, Manchester, UK.
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Brunstein CG, Weisdorf DJ, DeFor T, Barker JN, Tolar J, van Burik JAH, Wagner JE. Marked increased risk of Epstein-Barr virus-related complications with the addition of antithymocyte globulin to a nonmyeloablative conditioning prior to unrelated umbilical cord blood transplantation. Blood 2006; 108:2874-80. [PMID: 16804113 PMCID: PMC1895580 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2006-03-011791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is increasingly used as an alternative source of hematopoietic stem cells for transplantation for patients who lack a suitable sibling donor. Despite concerns about a possible increased risk of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) after UCB transplantation, early reports documented rates of PTLD comparable to those reported after HLA-matched unrelated marrow myeloablative (MA) transplantations. To further investigate the incidence of EBV PTLD after UCB transplantation and potential risk factors, we evaluated the incidence of EBV-related complications in 335 patients undergoing UCB transplantation with an MA or nonmyeloablative (NMA) preparative regimen. The incidence of EBV-related complications was a 4.5% overall, 3.3% for MA transplantations, and 7% for NMA transplantations. However, the incidence of EBV-related complications was significantly higher in a subset of patients treated with an NMA preparative regimen that included antithymocyte globulin (ATG) versus those that did not (21% vs 2%; P < .01). Nine of 11 patients who developed EBV PTLD were treated with rituximab (anti-CD20 antibody), with the 5 responders being alive and disease free at a median of 26 months. Use of ATG in recipients of an NMA preparative regimen warrants close monitoring for evidence of EBV reactivation and potentially preemptive therapy with rituximab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio G Brunstein
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Weinstock DM, Ambrossi GG, Brennan C, Kiehn TE, Jakubowski A. Preemptive diagnosis and treatment of Epstein-Barr virus-associated post transplant lymphoproliferative disorder after hematopoietic stem cell transplant: an approach in development. Bone Marrow Transplant 2006; 37:539-46. [PMID: 16462755 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1705289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients are at risk for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated, post transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). Studies have suggested that early treatment may improve the outcome of patients with PTLD. Thus, significant attention has been focused on PCR-based approaches for preemptive (i.e., prior to clinical presentation) diagnosis. Reports from several transplant centers have demonstrated that HSCT recipients with PTLD generally have higher concentrations of EBV DNA in the peripheral blood than patients without PTLD. However, the PCR values of patients with PTLD typically span multiple orders of magnitude and overlap significantly with values from patients without PTLD. Thus, questions remain about the sensitivity and predictive value of these assays. Preemptive strategies using rituximab and/or EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes have been evaluated in patients with elevated EBV viral loads. We review the current literature, discuss our institutional experience and identify several areas of future research that could improve the diagnosis and treatment of this life-threatening disorder in HSCT recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Weinstock
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Division, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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38
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Luderer R, Kok M, Niesters HGM, Schuurman R, de Weerdt O, Thijsen SFT. Real-time Epstein-Barr virus PCR for the diagnosis of primary EBV infections and EBV reactivation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 9:195-200. [PMID: 16392898 DOI: 10.1007/bf03260091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The serological diagnosis of primary Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections is often difficult, whereas the relevance of elevated immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against early antigen (EA) for the diagnosis of EBV reactivation has increasingly become a matter of dispute. Recently, EBV PCR has been added as a diagnostic tool. Positive EBV PCR has been demonstrated in the serum of patients with primary EBV infections and EBV reactivation. OBJECTIVES To compare classical serological diagnosis of primary EBV infection and EBV reactivation with real-time EBV PCR. STUDY DESIGN Sera from 45 patients were selected with detectable immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA), and 62 sera were selected with a reactivation profile. A real-time EBV PCR was performed with DNA extracted from these sera. RESULTS Based on serological data, the diagnosis of primary EBV infection was established for 24 of the 45 IgM VCA-positive patients. By performing PCR, seven extra cases of primary infection were diagnosed for which no heterophilic antibodies could be detected. In five cases of primary infection, no EBV DNA could be detected by PCR. Only in two of the 62 sera with a reactivation seroprofile could EBV DNA be detected. CONCLUSIONS Based on these data, we suggest that for the diagnosis of primary infections, EBV PCR could lead to an increase of >16% in the number of positive diagnoses by confirming a positive IgM VCA in the absence of heterophilic antibodies. Furthermore, EBV PCR is positive in only 3% of sera with elevated antibodies against EA, raising doubt as to the utility of EA titers for diagnosing EBV reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rianne Luderer
- Unit Molecular Diagnostics, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Luderer R, Kok M, Niesters HGM, Schuurman R, de Weerdt O, Thijsen SFT. Real-time Epstein-Barr virus PCR for the diagnosis of primary EBV infections and EBV reactivation. MOLECULAR DIAGNOSIS : A JOURNAL DEVOTED TO THE UNDERSTANDING OF HUMAN DISEASE THROUGH THE CLINICAL APPLICATION OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2006. [PMID: 16392898 DOI: 10.2165/00066982-200509040-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The serological diagnosis of primary Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections is often difficult, whereas the relevance of elevated immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against early antigen (EA) for the diagnosis of EBV reactivation has increasingly become a matter of dispute. Recently, EBV PCR has been added as a diagnostic tool. Positive EBV PCR has been demonstrated in the serum of patients with primary EBV infections and EBV reactivation. OBJECTIVES To compare classical serological diagnosis of primary EBV infection and EBV reactivation with real-time EBV PCR. STUDY DESIGN Sera from 45 patients were selected with detectable immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA), and 62 sera were selected with a reactivation profile. A real-time EBV PCR was performed with DNA extracted from these sera. RESULTS Based on serological data, the diagnosis of primary EBV infection was established for 24 of the 45 IgM VCA-positive patients. By performing PCR, seven extra cases of primary infection were diagnosed for which no heterophilic antibodies could be detected. In five cases of primary infection, no EBV DNA could be detected by PCR. Only in two of the 62 sera with a reactivation seroprofile could EBV DNA be detected. CONCLUSIONS Based on these data, we suggest that for the diagnosis of primary infections, EBV PCR could lead to an increase of >16% in the number of positive diagnoses by confirming a positive IgM VCA in the absence of heterophilic antibodies. Furthermore, EBV PCR is positive in only 3% of sera with elevated antibodies against EA, raising doubt as to the utility of EA titers for diagnosing EBV reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rianne Luderer
- Unit Molecular Diagnostics, Diakonessenhuis Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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40
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Görzer I, Niesters HGM, Cornelissen JJ, Puchhammer-Stöckl E. Characterization of Epstein-Barr virus Type I variants based on linked polymorphism among EBNA3A, -3B, and -3C genes. Virus Res 2006; 118:105-14. [PMID: 16406167 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2005.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2005] [Revised: 11/24/2005] [Accepted: 11/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Latent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nuclear antigens (EBNA)-3A, -3B, and -3C are involved in transcription regulation of both viral and cellular genes. In the present study, we chose functionally important regions within EBNA3A, -3B, and -3C genes with putative tumorigenic potential to investigate natural sequence variations among EBV Type I strains circulating in Europe. Based on the identification of linked EBNA3A, -3B, and -3C sequence patterns, we defined five EBNA3 variants in addition to the B95.8 prototype sequence. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that EBNA3 variant 5, the most diverged from the B95.8 sequence, showed an evolutionary history of intertypic recombination events occurring upstream and downstream of the C-terminus of EBNA3A. The frequency of occurrence of the five newly defined EBNA3 variants was similar for strains causing EBV primary infection or reactivation and was also similar within two of the European areas investigated. In addition, preferential linkages of certain EBNA3 variants to distinct latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) groups were found to exist. Thus, a combination of more than one polymorphic site in the EBV genome might be involved in determining disease characteristics.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Antigens, Viral/genetics
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- DNA, Viral/genetics
- Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/virology
- Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens/genetics
- Evolution, Molecular
- Genetic Linkage
- Herpesvirus 4, Human/classification
- Herpesvirus 4, Human/genetics
- Herpesvirus 4, Human/isolation & purification
- Humans
- Middle Aged
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Phylogeny
- Polymorphism, Genetic
- Recombination, Genetic
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sequence Homology
- Viral Matrix Proteins/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Görzer
- Medical University of Vienna, Institute of Virology, Kinderspitalgasse 15, A-1095 Vienna, Austria.
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41
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Espy MJ, Uhl JR, Sloan LM, Buckwalter SP, Jones MF, Vetter EA, Yao JDC, Wengenack NL, Rosenblatt JE, Cockerill FR, Smith TF. Real-time PCR in clinical microbiology: applications for routine laboratory testing. Clin Microbiol Rev 2006; 19:165-256. [PMID: 16418529 PMCID: PMC1360278 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.19.1.165-256.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 800] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Real-time PCR has revolutionized the way clinical microbiology laboratories diagnose many human microbial infections. This testing method combines PCR chemistry with fluorescent probe detection of amplified product in the same reaction vessel. In general, both PCR and amplified product detection are completed in an hour or less, which is considerably faster than conventional PCR detection methods. Real-time PCR assays provide sensitivity and specificity equivalent to that of conventional PCR combined with Southern blot analysis, and since amplification and detection steps are performed in the same closed vessel, the risk of releasing amplified nucleic acids into the environment is negligible. The combination of excellent sensitivity and specificity, low contamination risk, and speed has made real-time PCR technology an appealing alternative to culture- or immunoassay-based testing methods for diagnosing many infectious diseases. This review focuses on the application of real-time PCR in the clinical microbiology laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Espy
- Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Hilton 470, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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42
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Barkholt L, Linde A, Falk KI. OKT3 and ganciclovir treatments are possibly related to the presence of Epstein-Barr virus in serum after liver transplantation. Transpl Int 2005; 18:835-43. [PMID: 15948864 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2005.00145.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The development of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) associated lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is related to EBV genome numbers in serum or plasma and B-cells, and the level of immunosuppression. EBV DNA viremia, defined as presence of EBV genomes in serum or plasma, is common in immunodeficiency. This survey of EBV viremia was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on consecutive serum samples of 21 patients with acute (n = 3) or chronic liver disease (n = 18) during the first year after liver transplantation (LTX). Cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA was analyzed with PCR in serum or leukocytes. The levels of EBV and CMV viremia were related to PTLD and the effect of different anti-rejection regimens. All patients were EBV-seropositive pre-LTX. In total, 24 of 152 (16%) samples from 10 of 21 (48%) individuals were EBV positive [five of 11 cyclosporin A (CsA); five of 10 tacrolimus treated cases]. EBV viremia was demonstrated in five of seven patients with OKT3 therapy. The number of EBV DNA positive samples was highest (26%) at 14 days after LTX. In the OKT3 treated groups, the medians of EBV DNA copy numbers were 1600/ml (range 230-7200) and 380/ml (range 120-860) in the CsA and tacrolimus patients, respectively (P < 0.02). One patient developed EBV lymphoma and another one EBV hepatitis 13 months and 24 days post-LTX, respectively. Both patients had received OKT3. Their EBV genome load was not significantly different from what was found in other patients. After ganciclovir therapy, EBV DNA was eradicated from serum in four of five patients for several months. EBV DNA load was not affected by CMV infection or disease. We conclude that presence of EBV in serum is a possible marker of an active infection and an early ganciclovir therapy may be beneficial. Quantification of EBV load offers the potential to implement pre-emptive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisbeth Barkholt
- Department of Clinical immunology, Division of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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43
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Claas ECJ, Schilham MW, de Brouwer CS, Hubacek P, Echavarria M, Lankester AC, van Tol MJD, Kroes ACM. Internally controlled real-time PCR monitoring of adenovirus DNA load in serum or plasma of transplant recipients. J Clin Microbiol 2005; 43:1738-44. [PMID: 15814994 PMCID: PMC1081334 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.43.4.1738-1744.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenoviruses have been recognized as important pathogens in immunocompromised hosts. Particularly in pediatric allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients, the morbidity of the patients and mortality in those patients with disseminated infections have been found to increase over the last few years. Severe infections are predominantly but not exclusively caused by subgroup C adenoviruses. A multiplex real-time PCR assay using molecular beacons as probes was developed to enable monitoring of adenovirus DNA in those patients with simultaneous identification of subgroups. An internal control was coamplified in the multiplex PCR to check for the DNA isolation procedure as well as the presence of inhibitors in the clinical samples. The assay has been applied retrospectively in patient groups with different clinical outcomes of infection. In fatal cases, significantly higher adenovirus loads developed, exceeding even 10(11) copies/ml of serum or plasma. Patients with viral loads over 10(6) copies/ml appear to have an increased risk for fatal complications. This quantitative real-time PCR assay has been prospectively used clinically since 2002 to study the course of adenovirus infection. In addition, the assay provides objective start and end points of therapeutic interventions, including the clinically important evaluation of antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric C J Claas
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Medical Microbiology, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.
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44
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Cohen J, Gandhi M, Naik P, Cubitt D, Rao K, Thaker U, Davies EG, Gaspar HB, Amrolia PJ, Veys P. Increased incidence of EBV-related disease following paediatric stem cell transplantation with reduced-intensity conditioning. Br J Haematol 2005; 129:229-39. [PMID: 15813851 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2005.05439.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viraemia and lymphoproliferative disease (LPD) was studied in a consecutive cohort of 128 paediatric patients undergoing stem cell transplantation (SCT) with reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC; n = 65) or conventional-intensity conditioning (CIC; n = 68). Following CIC, six of 68 (8%) developed viraemia; all remained asymptomatic. EBV viraemia (23 of 65 patients = 35%, P < 0.001) and LPD (10 of 65 = 15%, P < 0.001) were significantly more frequent following RIC. Of the 23 RIC patients who developed viraemia, eight remained asymptomatic, five had symptomatic viraemia (fever +/- rash), and 10 patients developed LPD, two of whom died. An absolute lymphocyte count of <0.3 x 10(9)/l at the time of onset of viraemia was strongly predictive of development of LPD (P < 0.05) in this group. The incidence of viraemia was significantly higher in patients receiving serotherapy with antithymocyte globulin (ATG; 15 of 43, 35%) than Campath (12 of 73, 16.4%, P < 0.05). Primary immunodeficiency and acute graft-versus-host disease were associated with EBV viraemia in univariate analysis, but were not independent risk factors. In conclusion, EBV viraemia and LPD appear to be significantly more common in children following RIC SCT, particularly with selective depletion of recipient T cells relative to B cells following the use of ATG. This probably reflects the profound immunosuppression following RIC SCT, together with the incomplete ablation of recipient-derived B cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Cohen
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
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45
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Watzinger F, Suda M, Preuner S, Baumgartinger R, Ebner K, Baskova L, Niesters HGM, Lawitschka A, Lion T. Real-time quantitative PCR assays for detection and monitoring of pathogenic human viruses in immunosuppressed pediatric patients. J Clin Microbiol 2005; 42:5189-98. [PMID: 15528714 PMCID: PMC525141 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.42.11.5189-5198.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A panel of 23 real-time PCR assays based on TaqMan technology has been developed for the detection and monitoring of 16 different viruses and virus families including human polyomaviruses BK virus and JC virus, human herpesviruses 6, 7, and 8, human adenoviruses, herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, parvovirus B19, influenza A and B viruses, parainfluenza viruses 1 to 3, enteroviruses, and respiratory syncytial virus. The test systems presented have a broad dynamic range and display high sensitivity, reproducibility, and specificity. Moreover, the assays allow precise quantification of viral load in a variety of clinical specimens. The ability to use uniform PCR conditions for all assays permits simultaneous processing and detection of many different viruses, thus economizing the diagnostic work. Our observations based on more than 50,000 assays reveal the potential of the real-time PCR tests to facilitate early diagnosis of infection and to monitor the kinetics of viral proliferation and the response to treatment. We demonstrate that, in immunosuppressed patients with invasive virus infections, surveillance by the assays described may permit detection of increasing viral load several days to weeks prior to the onset of clinical symptoms. In virus infections for which specific treatment is available, the quantitative PCR assays presented provide reliable diagnostic tools for timely initiation of appropriate therapy and for rapid assessment of the efficacy of antiviral treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Watzinger
- Division of Molecular Microbiology and Development of Genetic Diagnostics, Children's Cancer Research Institute, Vienna, Austria
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46
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Leung E, Shenton BK, Green K, Jackson G, Gould FK, Yap C, Talbot D. Dynamic EBV gene loads in renal, hepatic, and cardiothoracic transplant recipients as determined by real-time PCR light cycler. Transpl Infect Dis 2004; 6:156-64. [PMID: 15762933 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3062.2004.00073.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is recognised as one of the causative agents for most cases of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD). Elevated levels of EBV DNA are known to be associated with the onset of PTLD, but little information is available regarding how EBV loads change with time in asymptomatic transplant recipients following transplantation. Our aims were to study the trend of EBV loads in renal (RTx), hepatic, and cardiothoracic transplant recipients and to compare their EBV loads with other healthy and patient controls. METHODS A prospective study was performed using a real-time TaqMan polymerase chain reaction technique to measure EBV DNA loads from three types of organ transplant recipients and haemodialysis patients (HD). Their results were then compared with those from the healthy controls (HC); monospot test negative (MN-) and infectious mononucleosis positive (IM+) patients; patients who were previously treated for PTLD (pPTLD); those who were currently diagnosed to have PTLD (PTLD+); and patients who had a stable renal, hepatic, or cardiothoracic graft for more than a year. RESULTS Post-transplant EBV loads were significantly higher than the pre-transplant levels. Asymptomatic transplant recipients were differentiated from the PTLD+group at 600 genome copies of EBV/mug DNA, and from IM+group at 100 genome copies. Both HC and MN- groups had significantly lower EBV loads than the three transplant groups. The dynamic change of EBV loads in RTx was greater in the first post-transplant month when compared with the HD group. All transplant recipients had transient rises of EBV loads whereas EBV load continued to rise in one suspected PTLD patient. CONCLUSIONS Asymptomatic transplant recipients had higher baseline post-transplant EBV levels than the non-transplant and MN- groups. The rising post-transplant EBV load in these transplant recipients did not seem to be sustained for longer than 2 weeks. However, in a PTLD+patient the rising EBV load continued over a period of 4 weeks. Hence, the dynamic pattern of EBV loads is more important than absolute EBV DNA measurements alone in identifying those who might go on to develop PTLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Leung
- Department of Surgery, Medical School, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.
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47
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Abstract
During the last decade, the application of both qualitative and quantitative nucleic acid detection techniques has had a major impact on diagnostics in clinical virology. Both signal and target amplification-based systems are currently used routinely in most if not all virology laboratories. However, commercial assays are only available for a very limited number of targets, and this has resulted in the development and introduction of assays developed in-house for most viral targets. With improved and automated nucleic acid sample isolation techniques, as well as real-time detection methods, a new generation of assays for most clinically important viruses is being developed. These technological improvements also make it possible to generate results with a very short turnaround time. As an example of a more individual-patient disease-management concept, we have introduced in our clinical setting the quantitative detection of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in T-cell-depleted allogeneic stem cell transplant patients. This has enabled us to develop models for pre-emptive anti-B-cell immunotherapy for EBV reactivation, and for reducing not only the incidence of EBV lymphoproliferative disease (EBV-LPD), but the virus-related mortality. It is now also feasible to introduce molecular testing for those viruses that can easily be detected using classical virological methods, such as culture techniques or antigen detection. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate the clinical importance of the additional positive samples detected. It should, however, be clear that a complete exchange of technology is unlikely to occur, and that complementary methods should stay operational, making possible the discovery of new viruses. Furthermore, the ability to characterise viruses more easily by sequencing opens new possibilities for epidemiological studies. There is also an urgent need, with regard to molecular diagnostic methods, for the introduction and use of standardised materials and participation in international quality control programmes. Finally, with the introduction of a universal internal control throughout the whole procedure, the accuracy of the results generated is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- H G M Niesters
- Department of Virology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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48
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Bankowski MJ, Anderson SM. Real-time nucleic acid amplification in clinical microbiology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/s0196-4399(04)90003-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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van Kooij B, Thijsen SFT, Meijer E, Niesters HGM, van Esser JWJ, Cornelissen JJ, Verdonck LF, van Loon AM. Sequence analysis of EBV DNA isolated from mouth washings and PBMCs of healthy individuals and blood of EBV-LPD patients. J Clin Virol 2003; 28:85-92. [PMID: 12927755 DOI: 10.1016/s1386-6532(02)00269-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD) caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a severe complication of bone marrow transplantation. The EBV strain causing LPD is of either donor or recipient origin, however, available data are limited to only a small number of cases. To obtain solid evidence, comparison of the EBV strain that caused the EBV-LPD with pre-stem cell transplantation (SCT) EBV strains of donor and recipient is imperative. Available techniques rely on the production of EBV transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines and lack sensitivity. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop a simple method for EBV sequence analysis on mouth washings (MWs) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). STUDY DESIGN EBV DNA was extracted from MWs and PBMCs that were collected from 20 healthy individuals. DNA was used for sequence analysis, using a polymerase chain reaction for the C-terminus of the LMP-1 gene. RESULTS In seropositive individuals EBV DNA could be detected in 11/14 (79%) MWs and in 13/14 (93%) PBMC samples. Sequence analysis showed that in 11 out of 14 (79%) healthy individuals sequence patterns could be established. In these 11 healthy individuals 13 sequence patterns could be detected. Eleven of these 13 patterns (84.6%) were unique. These results encouraged us to explore the feasibility of this method on EBV DNA isolated from plasma from 9 EBV-LPD patients at time of EBV reactivation. In 7 EBV-LPD patients 8 sequence patterns were detected. Six out of 8 sequence patterns (75%) were unique. CONCLUSION Our method is suitable for strain identification and we intend to use this technique to evaluate EBV origin in EBV-LPD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- B van Kooij
- Departments of Virology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Meij P, van Esser JWJ, Niesters HGM, van Baarle D, Miedema F, Blake N, Rickinson AB, Leiner I, Pamer E, Lowenberg B, Cornelissen JJ, Gratama JW. Impaired recovery of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)--specific CD8+ T lymphocytes after partially T-depleted allogeneic stem cell transplantation may identify patients at very high risk for progressive EBV reactivation and lymphoproliferative disease. Blood 2003; 101:4290-7. [PMID: 12576337 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2002-10-3001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes are considered pivotal to prevent lymphoproliferative disease (LPD) in allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) recipients. We evaluated the recovery of EBV-specific CD8+ T cells after partially T-cell-depleted SCT and studied the interaction between EBV-specific CD8+ T cells, EBV reactivation, and EBV-LPD. EBV-specific CD8+ T cells were enumerated using 12 class I HLA tetramers presenting peptides derived from 7 EBV proteins. Blood samples were taken at regular intervals after SCT in 61 patients, and EBV DNA levels were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Forty-five patients showed EBV reactivation, including 25 with high-level reactivation (ie, more than 1000 genome equivalents [geq] per milliliter). Nine of these 25 patients progressed to EBV-LPD. CD8+ T cells specific for latent or lytic EBV epitopes repopulated the peripheral blood at largely similar rates. In most patients, EBV-specific CD8+ T-cell counts had returned to normal levels within 6 months after SCT. Concurrently, the incidence of EBV reactivations clearly decreased. Patients with insufficient EBV-specific CD8+ T-cell recovery were at high risk for EBV reactivation in the first 6 months after SCT. Failure to detect EBV-specific CD8+ T cells in patients with high-level reactivation was associated with the subsequent development of EBV-LPD (P =.048). Consequently, the earlier defined positive predictive value of approximately 40%, based on high-level EBV reactivation only, increased to 100% in patients without detectable EBV-specific CD8+ T cells. Thus, impaired recovery of EBV-specific CD8+ T cells in patients with high-level EBV reactivation may identify a subgroup at very high risk for EBV-LPD and supports that EBV-specific CD8+ T cells protect SCT recipients from progressive EBV reactivation and EBV-LPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Meij
- Department of Internal Oncology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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