Introduction: Infections in Solid Organ Transplantation

The use of solid organ transplantation (SOT) has been established as accepted therapy for end-stage disease of the kidneys, liver, heart and lungs for nearly 30 years. Intestinal and pancreas transplantation are also generally available but are provided on a more limited basis. While surgical procedures are well established, the field of transplantation continues to explore and experience innovations in immunosuppressive therapy with goals of improving outcomes and in pursuit of tolerance. The potential for surgical and technical complications combined with the impact of immune suppression predisposes recipients of SOT to clinically important infectious sequelae.