Pre-transplant CMV and EBV seroprevalence in liver transplant candidates in northern Iran

Viral infections, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), contribute to the low survival rates of liver transplant patients. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of CMV and EBV infections in patients awaiting liver transplantation. Utilizing a census sampling approach, this cross-sectional study examined all cases of viral infections from 2016 to 2021 among liver transplant patients referred to Rasht liver transplant center, the North of Iran. The diagnosis of a recent primary viral infection was established by IgM positivity. In total, 34 individuals with a mean age of 48.9±12.2 years were included in the study. Of these, 40 individuals (59.7%) were male. The prevalence of CMV IgM and IgG antibodies among liver transplant candidates was 7.5%, and 97%, respectively. Also, the prevalence of EBV IgM and IgG antibodies was 7.5%, and 97%, respectively. The average serum vitamin D level in CMV IgM-negative patients was 30.7±17.2 compared to 55.1±22.1 in CMV IgM-positive patients (p = 0.011). The prevalence of active CMV and EBV infections in liver transplant patients was found to be 7.5%. These results highlight the necessity for continuous and effective strategies to prevent infection-related complications through prompt diagnosis and treatment, which are crucial for positive liver transplant outcomes.