Herpes Simplex Virus Pneumonia

A 39-year-old white man with terminal panlobular emphysema underwent left lung allotransplantation. He was treated with azathioprine, steroids, antilymphocyte globulin, and antibiotics. The transplanted lung functioned well, but postoperatively oral ulcerations developed. The left lung became infiltrated and there was clinical deterioration. Herpes simplex virus was cultured from tracheal aspirates and lung biopsy material, and electron microscopic studies revealed intracellular herpesvirus-like particles. Treatment with cytarabine hydrochloride failed to result in clinical improvement and he died on the 26th day after operation.