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.
Astegiano
Sara
S
Virology Unit, University Hospital San Giovanni Battista di Torino, Turin, Italy.
Sidoti
Francesca
F
Costa
Cristina
C
Ostorero
Alessia
A
Alotto
Daniela
D
Castagnoli
Carlotta
C
Bergallo
Massimiliano
M
Stella
Maurizio
M
Cavallo
Rossana
R
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