Sapovirus: an emerging pathogen in kidney transplant recipients?

• DOI: 10.1007/s15010-024-02242-9
• Publication Date: 2024-04-09T15:02:04Z
• Authors: Michaela Rippl; Anton Burkhard-Meier; Ulf Schönermarck; Michael Fischereder
• Keywords: Sapovirus

Abstract Purpose Diarrhea is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. After including sapovirus to the viral gastroenteritis screening our institution’s laboratory, we noticed increase infections among kidney transplant recipients. Therefore, assumed former gastrointestinal tract with unidentified pathogens could have been caused by sapovirus. To better understand characteristics a infection high-risk group initiated this study. Methods Over period 6 months, all recipients diarrhea later identified viral/unknown were included. Kidney function, levels immunosuppressants c-reactive protein, acid–base balance, onset symptoms time hospitalization analyzed. Results Among 13 hospitalized was detected four patients, while remaining nine, three diagnosed norovirus, one cytomegalovirus, inflammatory bowel disease patients no pathogen identified. Even though statistically not significant, creatinine at admission tended be higher (median: sapovirus: 3.3 mg/dl (1.3; 5.0), non-sapovirus: 2.5 (1.1; 4.9), p = 0.710). Also, Tacrolimus showed same trend (sapovirus: 13.6 ng/ml (12.9; 13.6), 7.1 (2.6; 22.6), 0.279). On discharge improved equally both groups 1.7 (1.4; 3.2), 2 (1.0; 3.6), 0.825). Conclusion In early symptomatic treatment remains crucial protect transplant`s function. cohort recovered well. Larger cohorts longer follow-up times are needed detect long-term consequences potential need for further research regarding specific treatment. Trial registration The study has registered on DRKS (trialsearch.who.int), Reg. Nr. DRKS00033311 (December 28th 2023).