Can a positive CMV-IgG be kidney donor?

A positive cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG antibody test result indicates that a person has been exposed to and developed antibodies against CMV, a common herpesvirus.

In the context of kidney transplantation, CMV serostatus is an important consideration for both the donor and the recipient.

- For donors: A positive CMV-IgG result generally does not disqualify a person from being a kidney donor. However, it does increase the risk of transmitting CMV to the recipient, especially if the recipient is CMV-negative (i.e., has not been exposed to CMV and does not have antibodies against it).

- For recipients: Receiving a kidney from a CMV-positive donor can increase the risk of developing CMV infection, particularly in CMV-negative recipients. CMV infection can cause serious complications in transplant recipients, including reduced graft function, rejection, and other health problems.

Therefore, in kidney transplantation, careful assessment and management of CMV risk is crucial. This may involve measures such as pre-transplant screening, antiviral prophylaxis, and monitoring for CMV infection post-transplant to minimize the potential risks associated with CMV seropositivity in donors and recipients.