Short Communication - (2025) Volume 9, Issue 5
Received: 01-Sep-2025, Manuscript No. vcrh-26-180175;
Editor assigned: 03-Sep-2025, Pre QC No. P-180175;
Reviewed: 17-Sep-2025, QC No. Q-180175;
Revised: 22-Sep-2025, Manuscript No. R-180175;
Published:
29-Sep-2025
, DOI: 10.37421/2736-657X.2025.9.329
Citation: Mansour, Khaled. ”Viral Infections In Immunocompromised Individuals: A Review.” Virol Curr Res 09 (2025):329.
Copyright: © 2025 Mansour K. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
This article reviews the multifaceted challenges posed by viral infections in individuals with weakened immune systems, highlighting increased susceptibility, diverse clinical presentations, and often severe outcomes associated with common and opportunistic viral pathogens in this vulnerable population. Key insights include the importance of early diagnosis, tailored prophylactic and therapeutic strategies, and ongoing research into novel treatment modalities and immunomodulatory approaches [1].
Focusing on hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients, this study details the spectrum of viral infections, emphasizing cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It underscores the critical role of preemptive therapy and the impact of viral reactivation on transplant outcomes, including graft-versus-host disease and overall survival. The authors advocate for vigilant monitoring and personalized management plans [2].
This research investigates the challenges of managing respiratory viral infections, such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), in solid organ transplant recipients. It highlights the increased morbidity and mortality associated with these infections and examines the effectiveness of current antiviral therapies and the potential benefits of vaccination. The study emphasizes the need for early recognition and prompt treatment [3].
This review focuses on the management of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV and organ transplant recipients. It discusses the increased risk of persistent infection, dysplasia, and cancer associated with HPV in this population. The authors review current diagnostic methods and treatment strategies, including the role of HPV vaccination [4].
This article explores the diagnostic dilemmas and therapeutic challenges of herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections in immunocompromised patients, including those with hematologic malignancies and primary immunodeficiencies. It emphasizes the atypical presentations and potential for disseminated disease, stressing the importance of early antiviral intervention and vigilant monitoring for resistance [5].
This study examines the evolving landscape of viral hepatitis, including hepatitis B and C, in immunocompromised individuals undergoing treatment for autoimmune diseases or cancer. It discusses the risks of viral reactivation, the impact of immunosuppressive therapies on viral control, and the importance of antiviral prophylaxis and management strategies to prevent hepatic decompensation [6].
This paper delves into the critical issue of polyomavirus infections, such as BK virus and JC virus, in kidney transplant recipients. It outlines the pathogenesis of nephropathy and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and discusses strategies for diagnosis, monitoring, and management, including the reduction of immunosuppression and novel therapeutic approaches [7].
This review addresses the challenges of arboviral infections, like West Nile virus and dengue virus, in individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly in endemic regions. It highlights the potential for severe neurological complications and systemic disease and discusses the diagnostic difficulties and limited treatment options available, emphasizing public health measures and vector control [8].
This article focuses on the impact of novel antiviral agents and immunomodulatory therapies on managing viral infections in immunocompromised patients. It reviews the latest advancements in treatment for challenging infections like refractory CMV and EBV, discussing the potential for improved outcomes and the ongoing need for research into resistance mechanisms and personalized medicine [9].
This paper examines the role of genetic factors and immune reconstitution in determining susceptibility and outcome of viral infections in immunocompromised individuals. It explores how variations in host genetics and the dynamics of immune recovery following transplantation or chemotherapy influence viral control and the development of disease, highlighting potential targets for therapeutic intervention [10].
Viral infections present a significant and complex challenge for individuals with weakened immune systems. These infections range from common pathogens causing severe disease to opportunistic viruses that typically do not affect immunocompetent individuals. The clinical spectrum is broad, with manifestations often differing from those seen in the general population, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Early and accurate diagnosis is paramount for effective management, necessitating a thorough understanding of the host's immune status and potential pathogens [1].
In the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), viral infections are a major cause of post-transplant complications. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are particularly concerning due to their propensity for reactivation and their impact on graft function and host survival. Prophylactic measures and preemptive treatment strategies are crucial to mitigate these risks, with personalized monitoring playing a key role in optimizing patient outcomes and preventing serious sequelae such as graft-versus-host disease [2].
Solid organ transplant recipients are also highly susceptible to a variety of viral infections, especially respiratory viruses like influenza and RSV. These infections can lead to severe pneumonia, graft dysfunction, and increased mortality. The effectiveness of current antiviral therapies, alongside the crucial role of vaccination in preventing primary infections and reducing disease severity, are critical components of care. Prompt recognition and initiation of treatment are essential for improving prognosis [3].
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections pose a distinct threat to immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV and organ transplant recipients. The altered immune surveillance in these patients leads to a higher incidence of persistent infections, cervical dysplasia, and an increased risk of HPV-related cancers. Comprehensive screening, timely diagnosis, and appropriate management, including the judicious use of HPV vaccination, are vital for preventing the progression of these lesions [4].
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections can manifest with atypical and severe presentations in immunocompromised hosts, such as those with hematologic malignancies or primary immunodeficiencies. Disseminated disease and resistance to standard antiviral therapies are significant concerns. Vigilant monitoring for treatment response and the development of resistance, coupled with early and aggressive antiviral intervention, are necessary to control these infections effectively [5].
The management of viral hepatitis, including hepatitis B and C, in immunocompromised patients undergoing treatment for autoimmune diseases or cancer presents unique challenges. Immunosuppressive therapies can lead to viral reactivation or uncontrolled replication, increasing the risk of liver damage and decompensation. Prophylactic antiviral strategies and careful monitoring of liver function are essential to prevent severe hepatic complications in this population [6].
Polyomavirus infections, notably BK virus and JC virus, are significant threats in kidney transplant recipients. BK virus nephropathy can lead to graft loss, while JC virus can cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a devastating neurological condition. Strategies for diagnosis and management often involve reducing immunosuppression and employing novel therapeutic approaches to control viral replication and prevent disease progression [7].
Arboviral infections, prevalent in endemic areas, can lead to severe outcomes in immunocompromised individuals. West Nile virus and dengue virus, for example, can cause significant neurological complications and systemic illness in this vulnerable group. The diagnostic challenges and limited treatment options underscore the importance of public health measures and vector control in preventing exposure and infection [8].
Recent advancements in antiviral agents and immunomodulatory therapies offer new hope for managing complex viral infections in immunocompromised patients. These novel treatments are showing promise for refractory infections, such as CMV and EBV, potentially leading to improved outcomes. Continued research into understanding and overcoming resistance mechanisms and developing personalized medicine approaches is crucial for further progress [9].
The interplay between host genetic factors and the process of immune reconstitution significantly influences susceptibility to and outcomes of viral infections in immunocompromised individuals. Understanding these host-specific variables, particularly after transplantation or chemotherapy, can identify targets for therapeutic intervention and improve the prediction and management of viral diseases [10].
This compilation of research reviews viral infections in immunocompromised individuals, covering a broad range of pathogens and patient populations. Key themes include increased susceptibility, diverse clinical presentations, and severe outcomes. Specific focus is given to infections in transplant recipients (HSCT, solid organ, kidney), HIV patients, and those with hematologic malignancies or primary immunodeficiencies. Common culprits like CMV, EBV, influenza, RSV, HPV, HSV, VZV, viral hepatitis (B, C), and polyomaviruses are discussed, alongside less common arboviruses. Early diagnosis, tailored prophylactic and therapeutic strategies, vigilant monitoring, and the use of novel antiviral agents and immunomodulatory therapies are emphasized. The role of host genetics and immune reconstitution in disease outcomes is also explored.
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