Improved Cadaver Allograft Survival in Transfused Recipients who Remain Serologically Negative for Cytomegalovirus

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Abstract
Between April, 1976-Oct., 1979, 100 consecutive cadaver renal transplants were done. Before transplantation 48 recipients were seronegative and 52 were seropositive for cytomegalovirus. After transplantation there were 20 primary and 38 secondary cytomegalovirus infections. The development of post-transplant cytomegalovirus infection, with or without overt symptoms, had no effect on graft survival. The 1 yr graft survival was significantly better (P < 0.05) in high transfused (> 5 U) recipients (70%) compared to nontransfused recipients (36%). The beneficial effect of transfusions was not diminished in patients with positive post-transplant cytomegalovirus serology. Of the transfused recipients those who remained serologically negative for cytomegalovirus pre-transplant had significantly better 1 yr graft survival (78%) than those who were cytomegalovirus before transplantation (58%) (P < 0.05). The improved graft survival in patients who remain cytomegalovirus seronegative after multiple blood transfusions may be a manifestation of unresponsiveness to immunologic as well as virogenetic stimulation.