Frequency of Cytomegalovirus Positivity in Patients Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplant for 3 Months Post-Bone Marrow Transplant

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of cytomegalovirus positivity detected within three months in patients underwent bone marrow transplant

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Pediatric Oncology, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad from 1-10-2021 to 1-10-2022. Sixty two children who underwent bone marrow transplantation within 3 months, who met the eligibility requirements were enrolled in the study. Blood sample was taken and sent to the pathology laboratory of hospital for cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibodies. Reports were retrieved and presence or absence of cytomegalovirus. This whole data was noted into proforma while later on entered and analyzed in SPSS version 25.

Results: The mean age of patients was 6.05 ± 1.76 years. There were 36 (58.1%) males and 26 (41.9%) females. All bone marrow were donated by sibling. Family history of cytomegalovirus was positive in 8 (12.9%) cases. A family history of thalassemia was positive in 8 (12.9%) cases. History of receiving blood transfusions before a bone marrow transplant was positive in 62 (100%) children. Out of 62 cases, cytomegalovirus infection was noted in 26 (41.9%) cases.

Conclusion: There are higher chances of cytomegalovirus infection positivity in thalassemia children who underwent bone marrow transplant about 3 months ago.