Monkeypox Virus Infection: Donor and Candidate Evaluation for Solid Organ Transplantation

Abstract

Contextualization: Since May 2022, cases of monkeypox (mpox) have been reported in several countries, with evidence of community transmission. In the current scenario, transmission has been identified in different continents, related to the local spread of the virus by intimate inter-human contact. Objective: The purpose of this article is to inform the transplant community about the possible implications of the disease for the population of transplant recipients and their donors. Method: This article presents guidelines foradapting the evaluation of donors and candidates for organ transplants, bearing in mind the potential risks resulting from the emergence of mpox in our midst. It is important to consider that this document reflects the opinion of specialists given the scarce evidence currently available. Results and Conclusions: Donor assessment and management recommendations are based on the potential risk of monkeypox virus (MPXV) transmission. The risk of transmission by transplantation is estimated to be low, taking into account theuncertainty about the duration of viremia in patients with mpox and the presence of viable virus in cells and tissues. It is recommended, however, that the physicians responsible for the patient are alert to evidence of infection and that they activate or notify the institutions in case there are indications of transmission through the transplant.