Human cytomegalovirus load in fresh and glycerolized skin grafts.
This study evaluated the detection of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-DNA in donors' skin samples. HCMV-DNA was quantified in 100 skin specimens, including 50 fresh samples and as many corresponding glycerol-preserved specimens by a home-made Real Time PCR. HCMV-DNA was detected in 19/50 (38%) fresh specimens and 23/50 (46%) glycerol-preserved (p = n.s.). Nevertheless, the mere detection of HCMV-DNA does not imply the presence of infectious virions and therefore does not imply a risk of HCMV transmission, as treatment with glycerol is particularly efficacious in inactivating viral particles. Therefore, HCMV serology confirms its pivotal role in the setting of skin grafting.
Virology Unit, University Hospital San Giovanni Battista di Torino, Turin, Italy.
Sara
S
Astegiano
Francesca
F
Sidoti
Cristina
C
Costa
Alessia
A
Ostorero
Daniela
D
Alotto
Carlotta
C
Castagnoli
Massimiliano
M
Bergallo
Maurizio
M
Stella
Rossana
R
Cavallo
D003587:Cytomegalovirus / Q000235:genetics / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D003586:Cytomegalovirus Infections / Q000821:virology*; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D006801:Humans; D009926:Organ Preservation; D012867:Skin / Q000382:microbiology*; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D014019:Tissue Donors