Overview

Fever may be caused by diverse etiologies in the post transplant setting; the most common causes are infections.  In order to assess the likelihood of specific infections, one needs to consider the timing of infection, the type of organ received, immunosuppressive regimens, and environmental exposures. Rejection is an important co-factor that may affect the differential of fever as well. This talk will review common causes of fever and provide guidance regarding evaluation and management of fever in transplant recipients.

Objectives

1.  To recognize the importance of post transplant timing with respect to assessing the etiology of fever.

2. To determine the impact of prophylactic treatments on the development of infections in the post transplant setting.

3. To appreciate the interaction of immunosuppression and infection when evaluating transplant recipients for casues of fever.