Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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Which virus is most commonly associated with organ transplants?

  1. HIV

  2. CMV

  3. EBV

  4. Herpes simplex virus

The correct answer is: CMV

The virus most commonly associated with organ transplants is Cytomegalovirus (CMV). This is due to its prevalence among immunocompromised individuals, such as those undergoing organ transplantation. When patients receive transplants, they are typically placed on immunosuppressive medications to prevent organ rejection. This immunosuppression increases their vulnerability to infections, including those caused by CMV. CMV can cause significant complications in transplant recipients, leading to conditions such as CMV disease, which may manifest as fever, fatigue, and various organ-specific symptoms. Its ability to establish latent infections and reactivate in immunocompromised hosts further emphasizes the importance of monitoring for CMV during the post-transplant period. Additionally, CMV is one of the most common viral pathogens in this population, making it a key virus of concern for clinicians managing transplant patients. Other viruses mentioned, such as HIV, EBV (Epstein-Barr Virus), and Herpes simplex virus, are also associated with various issues in organ transplant recipients, but CMV stands out due to its high incidence and potential to cause complications in this specific context.