The challenge of viral infections in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Abstract

After its initial use for therapeutic purposes in the 1950s, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has undergone significant development over the years, becoming a fundamental tool for managing many malignant and non-malignant conditions (1). In our country, a total of 1,458 HSCTs were performed in 2025 (886 autologous, 430 allogeneic with a related donor, and 142 allogeneic with an unrelated donor), the highest number ever recorded (2).

While survival rates after HSCT are increasing, morbidity due to procedural complications, primarily infectious, persists. Among these complications, viral infections are very common because new transplant modalities cause severe and prolonged T-cell immunodeficiency, and because the current antiviral arsenal is limited. Furthermore, multiple latent viruses can reactivate after HSCT (3).

For these reasons, the Committee on Infections in Immunocompromised Patients of the Argentine Society of Infectious Diseases has prepared this update on the management of viral infections in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We believe it will be very useful for all those involved in the management of these patients.