Respiratory syncytial virus and other respiratory viruses in the setting of bone marrow transplantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Several epidemiologic studies have enhanced our understanding of the impact of respiratory viruses on bone marrow transplant recipients. RECENT FINDINGS: Respiratory viral infections occur frequently following stem cell transplantation but present atypically. Many patients have asymptomatic infections. There is a growing armamentarium of antiviral agents currently under development, although prospective studies in transplant patients are needed. SUMMARY: Respiratory viral infections occur frequently after hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Newer agents may prove useful in the prevention and treatment of respiratory viral infections in this population.