Background The risk of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in solid organ transplant recipients
has resulted in the frequent use of prophylaxis with the aim of preventing the clinical
syndrome associated with CMV infection. This is an update of a review first published in
2005 and updated in 2008. Objectives To determine the benefits and harms of antiviral
medications to prevent CMV disease and all‐cause mortality in solid organ transplant
recipients.

Background Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common virus causing disease and death
in solid organ transplant recipients during the first six months post‐transplant. Previous
systematic reviews have demonstrated the efficacy of antiviral medications used
prophylactically or pre‐emptively in preventing CMV disease. In this review the efficacy of
older agents (immunoglobulins (IgG), anti CMV vaccines and interferon) are examined.
Objectives To assess the benefits and harms of IgG, anti CMV vaccines or interferon for …