How I treat influenza in patients with hematologic malignancies

Blood. 2010 Feb 18;115(7):1331-42. doi: 10.1182/blood-2009-11-255455. Epub 2009 Dec 15.

Abstract

The 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic has heightened the interest of clinicians for options in the prevention and management of influenza virus infection in immunocompromised patients. Even before the emergence of the novel 2009 H1N1 strain, influenza disease was a serious complication in patients with hematologic malignancies receiving chemotherapy or undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation. Here we review the clinical manifestations of seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza and discuss current diagnosis, antiviral treatment, and prophylaxis options. We also summarize infection control and vaccination strategies for patients, family members, and caregivers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Comorbidity
  • Disease Outbreaks
  • Hematologic Neoplasms / epidemiology*
  • Humans
  • Infection Control
  • Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype*
  • Influenza, Human / drug therapy*
  • Influenza, Human / epidemiology*
  • Influenza, Human / prevention & control

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents