Imaging spectrum of pulmonary infections in renal transplant patients

Abstract

In the post renal transplant setting, pulmonary infections comprise an important set of complications. Microbiological diagnosis although specific is often delayed and insensitive. Radiography is the most common and first imaging test for which patient is referred, however it is relatively insensitive. HRCT is a very useful imaging tool in the scenario where radiography is negative or inconclusive and high clinical suspicion for infection is present. HRCT features vary among the various pathogens and also depend on the level of immunocompromise. Certain HRCT findings are characteristic for specific pathogens and may help narrow diagnosis. In this review article , we will summarize the imaging findings of various pulmonary infections encountered in post renal transplant patients.

Keywords

• high resolution computed tomography
• immunocompromised
• peritransplant
• pneumonia
• renal transplant