Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 in solid organ transplant recipients.

BACKGROUND: Post-acute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) (PASC), defined as prolonged symptoms following an episode of COVID-19, is not well-characterized in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR). In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of PASC in SOTR, its descriptive characteristics, and associated risk factors. METHODS: We retrospectively identified SOTRs with acute COVID-19 between June 1, 2020 and April 15, 2022, and abstracted demographic and medical history, characteristics of acute COVID-19 illness, and COVID-19 vaccination status. We defined PASC as ongoing/new symptoms present at 6 weeks or longer following acute COVID-19 diagnosis. RESULTS: Among 208 SOTRs with acute COVID-19, 72 (35%) developed PASC. Common symptoms were respiratory symptoms (67%), headache (40%), and difficulty concentrating (10%). Severe acute COVID-19 disease and presence of respiratory symptoms were associated with higher odds of PASC in multivariable analyses, while receipt of at least one COVID-19 vaccination prior to transplantation was protective. CONCLUSION: We found that PASC occurs in about a third of SOTRs with acute COVID-19 and has similar symptoms as described previously in immunocompetent hosts. Pre-transplant vaccination may be protective. Further prospective multicenter studies are needed.

Long Peripheral Catheters: A Retrospective Review of Major Complications.

The risk of infectious and noninfectious complications associated with long peripheral catheters (LPCs) is unknown. In this retrospective study of 539 catheters, we found LPCs were often placed for the indications of difficult access and long-term antibiotics. Rates of deep vein thrombosis (1.7%) and catheter-related infection (0.6%) were low. LPCs may represent a novel and safe option for short-term venous access.