Toxoplasmosis Prophylaxis Practices: A Survey of International Pediatric Solid Organ Transplantation Centers

Abstract

Background: Toxoplasma gondii can cause opportunistic infections leading to life-threatening disseminated disease after organ transplantation. However, there is a paucity of pediatric-specific data to guide recommendations for the prevention of toxoplasmosis after solid organ transplantation. Methods: To assess current practices, international pediatric transplant providers were surveyed. Results: Considerable variability in both screening and prophylaxis strategies was found across centers and organ types, with heart transplant programs performing more screening and prophylaxis. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole was the preferred prophylaxis agent for each graft; no toxoplasmosis cases were recalled while patients received prophylaxis. Conclusion: More research is needed to clarify and standardize the optimal toxoplasmosis prevention strategy.