Risk factors for loss of Varicella immunity after pediatric kidney transplantation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Varicella zoster (VZV) vaccination pre-kidney transplant (Tx) can help prevent severe disseminated VZV in immunosuppressed recipients; however, studies have shown loss of humoral immunity post-Tx.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 45 pediatric kidney Tx recipients with positive pre-Tx VZV IgG (>1.09 index). VZV IgG was assessed annually and compared with the induction agent used, the number of VZV vaccines received, and the interval between the last dose of VZV vaccine and Tx.

Results

Median age at Tx was 16.7 years (IQR 12.7-18.5). 11 of 45 (24.4%) patients lost immunity to VZV at a median of 12.6 months post-Tx. Those who lost VZV immunity were younger at the time of Tx, 12.4 years vs. 17.3 years (P = 0.05) and more likely to be on steroid-based immunos

SUBMITTER: Pizzo H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12852294 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature