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Fang H, Li Z, Xian R, Yin Y, Wang J, Guo H, Dai X, Zhang M, Hu Y, Li Y. Early life growth and developmental trajectory in children with biliary atresia undergoing primary liver transplantation. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1198360. [PMID: 37377760 PMCID: PMC10291188 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1198360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To clarify the early growth and developmental characteristics of children with biliary atresia (BA) undergoing primary liver transplantation (pLT). Methods A prospective cohort study, which specifically focused on BA-pLT children, was conducted after the diagnosis of BA by following the children at the time of pLT and 1, 3, 5, 7 months and 1 year after pLT for growth and developmental monitoring. The growth parameters were calculated according to the WHO standard, and the developmental status was assessed using Denver Developmental Screening Tests. Results A total of 48 BA children who received pLT at the age of 5.00 ± 0.94 months were analyzed. The weight-for-age Z-value (ZW) and length-for-age Z-value (ZL) were higher than the head circumference-for-age Z-value (ZHC) at pLT (P = 0.002 and 0.02), but they were all lower than the WHO growth standard (Z = 0) (P < 0.001). The ZW and ZHC decreased first and then returned to the population level at 1 year after pLT, while the ZL only returned to the preoperative status and was lower than the ZW and ZHC (P < 0.001). Developmental screening showed that 35% (17/48) of the children were defined as suspicious and 15% (7/48) were abnormal at 1-4 months after pLT, the most likely time to be suspected of developmental delay. At 1 year after pLT, gross motor skill delay still existed (12/45, 27%), and language skill delay began to appear (4/45, 9%). Conclusions BA-pLT children suffer from growth and developmental problems. Low ZHC is the main growth problem before pLT, while low ZL is the problem after pLT. Developmental delays are significant after pLT, especially in motor and language skills. The current study suggested that further studies are warranted to clarify the long-term growth and developmental outcomes of BA-pLT children, to compare them with children undergoing the Kasai procedure and to explore their influencing factors and possible mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heping Fang
- Department of Child Health Care, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Zehao Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruoling Xian
- Department of Child Health Care, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Yin
- Department of Child Health Care, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Child Health Care, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongling Guo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoke Dai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingman Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Child Health Care, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingcun Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, China
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Robinson EB, Jordan G, Katz D, Sundaram SS, Boster J, Brigham D, Ladd P, Chan CM, Shay RL, Ochmanek E, Annam A. Congenital Portosystemic Shunts: Variable Clinical Presentations Requiring a Tailored Endovascular or Surgical Approach. JPGN REPORTS 2023; 4:e279. [PMID: 37181921 PMCID: PMC10174742 DOI: 10.1097/pg9.0000000000000279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSS) are rare developmental anomalies resulting in diversion of portal flow to the systemic circulation. These shunts allow intestinal blood to reach the systemic circulation directly, and if persistent or large, may lead to long-term complications. CPSS can have a variety of clinical presentations that depend on the substrate that is bypassing hepatic metabolism or the degree of hypoperfusion of the liver. Many intrahepatic shunts spontaneously close by 1 year of age, but extrahepatic and persistent intrahepatic shunts require intervention by a single session or staged closure with a multidisciplinary approach. Early detection and appropriate management are important for a good prognosis. The aim of this case series is to describe the varied clinical presentations, treatment approaches, and outcomes of 5 children with CPSS at our institution. Management of these patients should involve a multidisciplinary team, including interventional radiology, surgery, hepatology, and other medical services as the patient's clinical presentation warrants. Regardless of clinical presentation, if a CPSS persists past 1-2 years of age, closure is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Bent Robinson
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Gregory Jordan
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Danielle Katz
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Shikha S. Sundaram
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Health Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Julia Boster
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Health Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Dania Brigham
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Health Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Patricia Ladd
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Christine M. Chan
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Rebecca L. Shay
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Emily Ochmanek
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Aparna Annam
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
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Andacoglu OM, Himmler A, Geng X, Ahn J, Conlon E, Khan K, Yazigi N, Fishbein TM. Factors Associated With Growth After Deceased and Live Donor Pediatric Liver Transplantation. Transplant Proc 2019; 51:3059-3066. [PMID: 31711584 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited data on predictors of growth after pediatric liver transplantation. METHODS We reviewed the impact of graft type, ethnicity, and biliary complications (BC) on growth after pediatric liver transplantation (LT). We compared preoperative and 6-, 12-, and 24-month weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) percentiles between living donor (LD), deceased donor full-size (DD-full), and deceased donor split (DD-split) graft recipients. We also compared length of stay (LOS) between groups. RESULTS We had 98 patients (DD-split: 32; DD-full: 43, LD: 23). The Median Pediatric End-stage Liver Disease (PELD) scores, exception points, albumin, bilirubin, failure to thrive, and presence of ascites were similar among groups. The DD-full group had the lowest preoperative percentiles in all categories and exceeded these at 24 months. The DD-split group was at preoperative percentiles at 24 months. The LD group had parallel weight curves compared to the DD-full group and exceeded only the preoperative weight percentile at 24 months. Black patients had the lowest percentiles in all categories (P < .01). The BC group caught up weight and BMI percentile at 24 months but had persistent decrease in height percentiles. Patients without BC exceeded preoperative height percentiles. The longer LOS group had lower height and BMI percentiles at 24 months; however, there was no statistical difference. CONCLUSION DD-full and black patients seem to benefit the most from LT in terms of growth. BC seems to affect height percentiles. Patients with longer LOS had lower height and BMI percentiles (P>.05). Longer follow up and larger cohorts are necessary to improve the power of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oya M Andacoglu
- Georgetown University MedStar Transplant Institute, Washington, DC, United States.
| | - Amber Himmler
- Georgetown University Medical School, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Xue Geng
- Department of Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, and Biomathematics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jaeil Ahn
- Department of Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, and Biomathematics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Elizabeth Conlon
- Georgetown University Medical School, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Khalid Khan
- Georgetown University MedStar Transplant Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Nada Yazigi
- Georgetown University MedStar Transplant Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Thomas M Fishbein
- Georgetown University MedStar Transplant Institute, Washington, DC, United States
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to describe long-term growth postpediatric liver transplantation and to conduct bivariate and multivariate analysis of factors that may predict post-transplantation growth in children who received a liver transplant from January 1999 to December 2008 at the Hospital for Sick Children. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted with follow-up of up-to 10 years post-transplantation. Mean height and weight z scores and annual differences in mean z scores were plotted against time after transplantation. A 1-way analysis of variance was conducted. Multivariate and univariate Cox proportional hazards analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with reaching the 50th and 25th percentiles for height. RESULTS A total of 127 children met eligibility criteria. The mean height z score at time of transplantation was -2.21 which by the second year post-transplantation increased significantly to -0.66 (mean increase of 1.55 standard deviation units). There were no further significant increases in mean height z score from 2 years post-transplantation until the end of follow-up at year 10. In multivariate analysis, height at transplant was the most important predictor of linear growth post-transplantation. CONCLUSIONS Children who underwent liver transplantation had significant catch-up growth in the first 2 years post-transplantation followed by a plateau phase. Increased height z-score at transplantation is the most important predictor of long-term growth.
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Ganschow R, Ericzon BG, Dhawan A, Sharif K, Martzloff ED, Rauer B, Ng J, Lopez P. Everolimus and reduced calcineurin inhibitor therapy in pediatric liver transplant recipients: Results from a multicenter, prospective study. Pediatr Transplant 2017; 21. [PMID: 28714558 DOI: 10.1111/petr.13024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In a 24-month, multicenter, single-arm, prospective study, 56 pediatric liver transplant patients with or without basiliximab induction were converted at 1-6 months post-transplant from standard calcineurin inhibitor (CN) therapy (± mycophenolic acid), to everolimus with reduced exposure to CNI (tacrolimus n=50, cyclosporine n=6). Steroid therapy was optional. Recruitment was stopped prematurely due to high rates of PTLD, treatment-related serious infections leading to hospitalization and premature study drug discontinuation. Subsequently, patients aged <7 years reverted to local standard-of-care immunosuppression. Mean tacrolimus concentration was above or near the upper end of the maintenance target range (2-5 ng/mL) until after month 6 post-enrollment. The primary variable, mean (SD) change in eGFR from baseline to month 12 (last observation carried forward), was +6.2 (19.5) mL/min/1.73 m2 . Two patients experienced treated biopsy-proven acute rejection. No graft losses or deaths occurred. PTLD occurred in five patients (8.9%) (3/25 [12.0%] patients <2 years, 2/31 aged 2-18 years [6.5%]). Adverse events, serious adverse events, and discontinuation due to adverse events were reported in 100.0%, 76.8%, and 44.6% of patients, respectively. In conclusion, everolimus with reduced CNI improved renal function while maintaining antirejection potency in pediatric liver transplant patients but safety outcomes suggest that patients were overimmunosuppressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Ganschow
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bo-Goran Ericzon
- Division of Transplantation Surgery, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anil Dhawan
- Paediatric Liver, Gastrointestinal and Nutrition Center, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Khalid Sharif
- Liver Unit, Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - Jennifer Ng
- Biometrics and Statistical Science, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, East Hanover, NJ, USA
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Yang CH, Perumpail BJ, Yoo ER, Ahmed A, Kerner JA. Nutritional Needs and Support for Children with Chronic Liver Disease. Nutrients 2017; 9:nu9101127. [PMID: 29035331 PMCID: PMC5691743 DOI: 10.3390/nu9101127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 10/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Malnutrition has become a dangerously common problem in children with chronic liver disease, negatively impacting neurocognitive development and growth. Furthermore, many children with chronic liver disease will eventually require liver transplantation. Thus, this association between malnourishment and chronic liver disease in children becomes increasingly alarming as malnutrition is a predictor of poorer outcomes in liver transplantation and is often associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Malnutrition requires aggressive and appropriate management to correct nutritional deficiencies. A comprehensive review of the literature has found that infants with chronic liver disease (CLD) are particularly susceptible to malnutrition given their low reserves. Children with CLD would benefit from early intervention by a multi-disciplinary team, to try to achieve nutritional rehabilitation as well as to optimize outcomes for liver transplant. This review explains the multifactorial nature of malnutrition in children with chronic liver disease, defines the nutritional needs of these children, and discusses ways to optimize their nutritional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine H Yang
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, Stanford, CA 94304, USA.
| | - Brandon J Perumpail
- Department of Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA.
| | - Eric R Yoo
- Department of Medicine, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, San Jose, CA 95128, USA.
| | - Aijaz Ahmed
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - John A Kerner
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, Stanford, CA 94304, USA.
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Abstract
During the last 5 decades, liver transplantation has witnessed rapid development in terms of both technical and pharmacologic advances. Since their discovery, calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) have remained the standard of care for immunosuppression therapy in liver transplantation, improving both patient and graft survival. However, adverse events, particularly posttransplant nephrotoxicity, associated with long-term CNI use have necessitated the development of alternate treatment approaches. These include combination therapy with a CNI and the inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase inhibitor mycophenolic acid and use of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors. Everolimus, a 40-O-(2-hydroxyethyl) derivative of mTOR inhibitor sirolimus, has a distinct pharmacokinetic profile. Several studies have assessed the role of everolimus in liver transplant recipients in combination with CNI reduction or as a CNI withdrawal strategy. The efficacy of everolimus-based immunosuppressive therapy has been demonstrated in both de novo and maintenance liver transplant recipients. A pivotal study in 719 de novo liver transplant recipients formed the basis of the recent approval of everolimus in combination with steroids and reduced-dose tacrolimus in liver transplantation. In this study, everolimus introduced at 30 days posttransplantation in combination with reduced-dose tacrolimus (exposure reduced by 39%) showed comparable efficacy (composite efficacy failure rate of treated biopsy-proven acute rejection, graft loss, or death) and achieved superior renal function as early as month 1 and maintained it over 2 years versus standard exposure tacrolimus. This review provides an overview of the efficacy and safety of everolimus-based regimens in liver transplantation in the de novo and maintenance settings, as well as in special populations such as patients with hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence, hepatitis C virus-positive patients, and pediatric transplant recipients. We also provide an overview of ongoing studies and discuss potential expansion of the role for everolimus in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jörg-Matthias Pollok
- Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Guido Junge
- Integrated Hospital Care, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
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Mohammad S, Grimberg A, Rand E, Anand R, Yin W, Alonso EM. Long-term linear growth and puberty in pediatric liver transplant recipients. J Pediatr 2013; 163:1354-60.e1-7. [PMID: 23916225 PMCID: PMC4155930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2013.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore linear growth, puberty, and predictors of linear growth impairment among pubertal liver transplant recipients. STUDY DESIGN Review of data collected prospectively through the Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation registry. Thirty-one variables were tested as risk factors for linear growth impairment, and factors significant at P < .1 were included in a logistic regression model. Risk factor analysis was limited to 512 patients who had complete demographic and medical data. RESULTS A total of 892 patients surviving their first liver transplant by >1 year, with ≥ 1 height recorded, who were between 8 and 18 years old between the years 2005 and 2009 were included. Median follow-up was 70.2 ± 38.6 months, mean age was 12.9 ± 3.3 years, and mean height z-score (zH) was -0.5 ± 1.4 SD. Twenty percent had linear growth impairment at last follow-up. Of 353 subjects with Tanner stage data, 39% of girls and 42% of boys ages 16-18 years were not yet Tanner 5. Growth impairment rates were higher among boys than girls (30% vs 7%, P < .05) at Tanner stage 4, and occurred in 8/72 (11%) of Tanner 5 subjects. Among patients with parental height data, zH were lower than calculated mid-parental zH (P < .005). Independent predictors of growth impairment included linear growth impairment at transplant (OR 11.53, P ≤ .0001), re-transplantation (OR 4.37, P = .001), non-white race (P = .0026), and primary diagnosis other than biliary atresia (P = .0105). CONCLUSIONS Linear growth impairment and delayed puberty are common in pubertal liver transplant recipients, with pre-transplant growth impairment identified as a potentially modifiable risk factor. Catch-up growth by the end of puberty may be incomplete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Mohammad
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.
| | - Adda Grimberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Elizabeth Rand
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | | | - Estella M. Alonso
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
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Kelly DA, Bucuvalas JC, Alonso EM, Karpen SJ, Allen U, Green M, Farmer D, Shemesh E, McDonald RA. Long-term medical management of the pediatric patient after liver transplantation: 2013 practice guideline by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the American Society of Transplantation. Liver Transpl 2013; 19:798-825. [PMID: 23836431 DOI: 10.1002/lt.23697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre A Kelly
- Liver Unit, Birmingham Children's Hospital, National Health Service Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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Ee LC, Beale K, Fawcett J, Cleghorn GJ. Long-term growth and anthropometry after childhood liver transplantation. J Pediatr 2013; 163:537-42. [PMID: 23485029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2013.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2012] [Revised: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe longitudinal height, weight, and body mass index changes up to 15 years after childhood liver transplantation. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective chart review of patients who underwent liver transplant from 1985-2004 was performed. Subjects were age <18 years at transplant, survived ≥5 years, with at least 2 recorded measurements, of which one was ≥5 years post-transplant. Measurements were recorded pre-transplant, 1, 5, 10, and 15 years later. RESULTS Height and weight data were available in 98 and 104 patients, respectively; 47% were age <2 years at transplant; 58% were Australian, and the rest were from Japan. Height recovery continued for at least 10 years to reach the 26th percentile (Z-score -0.67) 15 years after transplant. Australians had better growth recovery and attained 47th percentile (Z-score -0.06) at 15 years. Weight recovery was most marked in the first year and continued for 15 years even in well-nourished children. Growth impaired and malnourished children at transplant exhibited the best growth, but remained significantly shorter and lighter even 15 years later. No effect of sex or age at transplant was noted on height or weight recovery. Post-transplant factors significantly impact growth recovery and likely caused the dichotomous growth recovery between Australian and Japanese children; 9% (9/98) of patients were overweight on body mass index calculations at 10-15 years but none were obese. CONCLUSIONS After liver transplant, children can expect ongoing height and weight recovery for at least 10-15 years. Growth impairment at transplant and post-transplant care significantly impact long-term growth recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Looi Cheng Ee
- Queensland Liver Transplant Service, Royal Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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Endocrine and bone metabolic complications in chronic liver disease and after liver transplantation in children. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2012; 54:313-21. [PMID: 22064631 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0b013e31823e9412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
With improved survival of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in children, prevention and treatment of pre- and posttransplant complications have become a major focus of care. End-stage liver failure can cause endocrine complications such as growth failure and hepatic osteodystrophy, and, like other chronic illnesses, also pubertal delay, relative adrenal insufficiency, and the sick euthyroid syndrome. Drug-induced diabetes mellitus post-OLT affects approximately 10% of children. Growth failure is found in 60% of children assessed for OLT. Despite optimisation of nutrition, rarely can further stunting of growth before OLT be prevented. Catch-up growth is usually observed after steroid weaning from 18 months post-OLT. Whether growth hormone treatment would benefit the 20% of children who fail to catch up in height requires testing in randomised controlled trials. Hepatic osteodystrophy in children comprises vitamin D deficiency rickets, low bone mass, and fractures caused by malnutrition and malabsorption. Vitamin D deficiency requires aggressive treatment with ergocalciferol (D2) or cholecalciferol (D3). The active vitamin D metabolites alphacalcidol or calcitriol increase gut calcium absorption but do not replace vitamin D stores. Prevalence of fractures is increased both before OLT (10%-28% of children) and after OLT (12%-38%). Most fractures are vertebral, are associated with low spine bone mineral density, and frequently occur asymptomatically, but they may also cause chronic pain. Fracture prediction in these children is limited. OLT in children is also associated with a greater risk of developing avascular bone necrosis (4%) and scoliosis (13%-38%). This article reviews the literature on endocrine and skeletal complications of liver disease and presents preventive screening recommendations and therapeutic strategies.
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Burra P. The adolescent and liver transplantation. J Hepatol 2012; 56:714-22. [PMID: 21963519 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2011] [Revised: 06/04/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The outcome of liver transplantation is usually reported in terms of graft and patient survival, medical and surgical complications, and quality of life, but when it comes to transplanted adolescents such conventional parameters are unable to give a full account of their life with a new liver, and their transition from adolescence to adulthood is a time when they are particularly vulnerable. Adolescents with liver transplants have excellent survival rates, over 80% of them surviving more than 10 years. Graft loss is most often associated with complications such as chronic rejection, hepatic artery thrombosis, and biliary complications. Calcineurin inhibitors may have various side effects, including hypertension and nephrotoxicity. Liver-transplanted adolescents are also exposed to viral infections, among which Epstein-Barr virus is very common and associated with the onset of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders. Growth retardation may also be an issue in some liver transplant recipients. Future studies will determine the best way to assess the functional immune status of adolescents with a transplanted liver with a view to ensuring the best treatment to induce tolerance without the complications of excessive immunosuppression. Schooling may be disrupted due to adolescent transplant recipients' poor adherence. Non-adherence is associated with a poor medical outcome. Both physical and psychosocial functioning is reportedly lower among young liver transplant recipients than in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Burra
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Gastroenterology Section, Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padova University Hospital, Padova, Italy.
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Baran M, Cakir M, Unal F, Tumgor G, Yuksekkaya HA, Arikan C, Kilic M, Aydogdu S. Evaluation of growth after liver transplantation in Turkish children. Dig Dis Sci 2011; 56:3343-9. [PMID: 21562786 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-011-1727-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2011] [Accepted: 04/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Currently, the main interest in childhood liver transplantation (LT) is to prevent long-term complications and optimize growth. The aim of this study is to analyze (1) nutritional status in the pretransplantation period, and (2) posttransplantation growth and associated factors in children. PATIENTS AND METHODS Eighty children were included in the study. Height (Z (H)) and weight (Z (W)) Z scores were calculated before transplantation and postoperatively at the 6th month and 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th year. RESULTS Patients' Z (H) and Z (W) scores at LT were -1.6 ± 1.3 and -1.5 ± 1.4, respectively. Both Z (H) and Z (W) scores increased after LT, especially in the first 6 months, and then continued to rise gradually. Both reached beyond -1 Z score at 2nd year and -0.5 at 4th year. Age, primary diagnosis, total steroid dose (<1,000 mg), and absence of rejection episodes had positive impact on posttransplantation growth, whereas gender, immunosuppression type, surgical complications, and presence of tumor had no impact on posttransplantation growth. Age at time of LT was negatively correlated with Z (W) score at 5th year (P = 0.02, r = -0.43). Both Z (W) and Z (H) scores at time of LT were positively correlated with Z (W) and Z (H) scores and negatively correlated with ∆Z (W) and ∆Z (H) scores at 5th year. CONCLUSIONS LT is not only a modern, life-saving treatment technique but also an efficient method of facilitating growth, an indispensable component of childhood and the best indicator of health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masallah Baran
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
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14
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Mazariegos GV, Salzedas AA, Zavatsky J, Sindhi R, Parizhskaya M, McGhee W, Jain A, Reyes J. Long term management of liver transplant rejection in children. BioDrugs 2010; 14:31-48. [PMID: 18034554 DOI: 10.2165/00063030-200014010-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The current management of hepatic allograft rejection after liver transplantation in children requires effective baseline immunosuppression to prevent rejection and rapid diagnosis and treatment to manage acute rejection episodes. The subsequent impact on chronic rejection is dependent on the combination of adequate prevention and the treatment of acute rejection. Tacrolimus is a macrolide lactone that inhibits the signal transduction of interleukin-2 (IL-2) via calcineurin inhibition. Introduced in 1989, tacrolimus was first used in the salvage of refractory acute or chronic rejection under cyclosporin or to rescue patients with significant cyclosporin-related complications. The majority of paediatric transplant centres use a combination of steroids with tacrolimus as a basic immunosuppressant regimen following paediatric liver transplantation. This combination has allowed the acute cellular rejection-free rate to increase to between 30 and 60%, while lowering the rate of refractory rejection to less than 5%. Corticosteroid-resistant rejection is commonly treated with monoclonal (muromonab CD3) or polyclonal preparations. Although most episodes of acute cellular rejection occur during the first 6 weeks after liver transplant, the appearance of late acute liver allograft rejection must raise the question of noncompliance, especially in the adolescent population. Chronic rejection is becoming increasingly rare under tacrolimus-based immunosuppression. Tacrolimus is effective in reversing refractory acute cellular rejection or early chronic rejection in patients initially treated with cyclosporin-based regimens. Patients with a history of noncompliance as well as children with autoimmune liver disease are at risk of chronic rejection. Retransplantation therapy for chronic rejection has, fortunately, become more rare in the tacrolimus era with only 3% of retransplants being performed for this indication. Newer immunosuppressive agents are further modifying the long term management of liver allograft rejection. These include mycophenolate mofetil, rapamycin and IL-2 antibodies such as daclizumab. The development of these agents is allowing patient-specific immunosuppressive management to minimise rejection as well as the complications related to immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- G V Mazariegos
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA.
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15
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Approach to optimizing growth, rehabilitation, and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children after solid-organ transplantation. Pediatr Clin North Am 2010; 57:539-57, table of contents. [PMID: 20371051 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2010.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
One of the most critical differences between the posttransplant care of children and adults is the requirement in children to maintain a state of health that supports normal physical and psychological growth and development. Most children with organ failure have some degree of growth failure and developmental delay, which is not quickly reversed after successful transplantation. The challenge for clinicians caring for these children is to use strategies that minimize these deficits before transplantation and provide maximal opportunity for recovery of normal developmental processes during posttransplant rehabilitation. The effect of chronic organ failure, frequently complicated by malnutrition, on growth potential and cognitive development is poorly understood. This review presents a summary of what is known regarding risk factors for suboptimal growth and development following solid-organ transplant and describe possible strategies to improve these outcomes.
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16
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Turmelle YP, Nadler ML, Anderson CD, Doyle MB, Lowell JA, Shepherd RW. Towards minimizing immunosuppression in pediatric liver transplant recipients. Pediatr Transplant 2009; 13:553-9. [PMID: 19067920 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3046.2008.01061.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Immunosuppression regimens after liver transplantation focus mainly on preventing rejection and subsequent graft loss. However, in children, morbidity and mortality rates from infections exceed those from rejection after transplant, and immunosuppression can hinder growth, renal function, and graft tolerance. We hypothesized that early steroid withdrawal, with a primary aim of TAC monotherapy would yield no penalty in terms of rejection and graft loss, while reducing risks of infection and maximizing growth. We prospectively evaluated 64 consecutive pediatric liver transplant recipients. One yr patient/graft survival was 93/90%, respectively. At one yr post-transplant, 75.4% of patients were on TAC monotherapy. No deaths or graft losses were caused by infection. Sixty-one percent of patients had at least one episode of rejection, most within three months following transplant and 3.8% were treated for chronic rejection. One non-compliant adolescent died from chronic rejection. CMV, EBV, and lymphoproliferative disease rates were 3.1%, 5.3%, 1.8%, respectively. Pretransplant and one yr post-transplant glomerular filtration rates were unchanged. One yr improved catch-up growth was observed. We conclude that immunosuppression minimization after pediatric liver transplant yields no serious complications from rejection, and might confer advantages with respect to infection, renal function, growth, and is deserving of wider application and study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumirle P Turmelle
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.
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17
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Alonso EM, Shepherd R, Martz KL, Yin W, Anand R. Linear growth patterns in prepubertal children following liver transplantation. Am J Transplant 2009; 9:1389-97. [PMID: 19459820 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2009.02634.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Factors impacting linear growth following pediatric liver transplantation (LT) are not well understood. This longitudinal analysis examines predictors of linear growth impairment in prepubertal children included in Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation. In 1143 children with serial measurements, mean height scores increased from -1.55 at LT to -0.87 and -0.68 at 24 and 36 months post LT with minimal subsequent catch up growth observed until 60 months. Subgroup analysis of height measurements at 24 months (n = 696), 33.8% were below 10th percentile at 24 months post LT. Multivariate analysis revealed linear growth impairment more likely in patients with metabolic disease (OR 4.4, CI: 1.83-10.59) and >18 months of steroids exposure (OR 3.02, CI: 1.39-6.55). Higher percentiles for weight (OR 0.80, CI: 0.65-0.99) and height (OR 0.62, CI: 0.51-0.77) at LT decreased risk. Less linear catch up was observed in patients with metabolic disease, non-Biliary atresia cholestatic diseases and lower weight and higher height percentiles prior to LT. Prolonged steroid exposure and elevated calculated glomerular filtration rate and gamma-Glutamyltransferase following LT were associated with less catch up growth. Linear growth impairment and incomplete linear catch up growth are common following LT and may improve by avoiding advanced growth failure before LT and steroid exposure minimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Alonso
- Children's Memorial Hospital, Pediatrics, Chicago, IL, USA.
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18
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Abstract
The theoretical risks of early SW, <3 months post-LT, and complete elimination (steroid-free LT) lie in mainly three areas, namely the risks of AGR, CGR, and the development of d-AIH that has been described in SW post-LT in children. These should be balanced against the benefits of early SW mainly manifested as effects on growth post-LT. In this paper, we focused on the clinical trials that included CS therapy risks and benefits in pediatric LT. Focusing mainly on CGR and d-AIH as risks, and the beneficial effects on growth post-LT with either low-dose CS, SW, or steroid-free regimens. Main conclusions from comparing a large number of studies are: early SW or elimination from immunosuppression protocols was neither harmful to the patient nor to the graft survival rate in the short term, the overall impression is that steroids negatively affect growth in LT recipients when used in high doses and prolonged course, and that development of d-AIH is not associated with CS therapy with evidence that chronic low dose steroids post-LT have no preventative role against d-AIH.
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19
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Abstract
In previous decades, pediatric liver transplantation has become a state-of-the-art operation with excellent success and limited mortality. Graft and patient survival have continued to improve as a result of improvements in medical, surgical and anesthetic management, organ availability, immunosuppression, and identification and treatment of postoperative complications. The utilization of split-liver grafts and living-related donors has provided more organs for pediatric patients. Newer immunosuppression regimens, including induction therapy, have had a significant impact on graft and patient survival. Future developments of pediatric liver transplantation will deal with long-term follow-up, with prevention of immunosuppression-related complications and promotion of as normal growth as possible. This review describes the state-of-the-art in pediatric liver transplantation.
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20
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Ng VL, Fecteau A, Shepherd R, Magee J, Bucuvalas J, Alonso E, McDiarmid S, Cohen G, Anand R. Outcomes of 5-year survivors of pediatric liver transplantation: report on 461 children from a north american multicenter registry. Pediatrics 2008; 122:e1128-35. [PMID: 19047213 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2008-1363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although liver transplantation has been the standard of care therapy for life-threatening liver diseases for >20 years, data on the long-term impact of liver transplantation in children have been primarily limited to single-center experiences. The objective of this study was to characterize and evaluate the clinical course of children who have survived >or=5 years after pediatric liver transplantation in multiple centers across North America. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients enrolled in the Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation database registry who had undergone liver transplantation at 1 of 45 pediatric centers between 1996 and 2001 and survived >5 years from liver transplantation were identified and their clinical courses retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS The first graft survival for 461 five-year survivors was 88%, with 55 (12%) and 10 (2%) children undergoing a second and third liver transplantation. At the 5-year anniversary clinic visit, liver function was preserved in the majority with daily use of immunosuppression therapy, including a calcineurin inhibitor and oral prednisone, reported by 97% and 25% of children, respectively. The probability of an episode of acute cellular rejection occurring within 5 years after liver transplantation was 60%. Chronic rejection occurred in 5% patients. Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease was diagnosed in 6% children. Calculated glomerular filtration rate was <90 mL/minute per 1.73 m2 in 13% of 5-year survivors. Age- and gender-adjusted BMI>95th percentile was noted in 12%, with height below the 10th percentile in 29%. CONCLUSIONS Children who are 5-year survivors of liver transplantation have good graft function, but chronic medical conditions and posttransplantation complications affect extrahepatic organs. A comprehensive approach to the management of these patients' multiple unique needs requires the expertise and commitment of health care providers both beyond and within transplant centers to further optimize long-term outcomes for pediatric liver transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky Lee Ng
- SickKids Transplant Center, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, 555 University Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada.
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21
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Bucuvalas JC, Alonso E, Magee JC, Talwalkar J, Hanto D, Doo E. Improving long-term outcomes after liver transplantation in children. Am J Transplant 2008; 8:2506-13. [PMID: 18853949 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2008.02432.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The objective was to review the current state of knowledge and recommend future research directions related to long-term outcomes for pediatric liver transplant recipients. A 1-day Clinical Research Workshop on Improving Long-Term Outcomes for Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients was held on February 12, 2007, in Washington, DC. The speaker topics were germane to research priorities delineated in the chapters on Pediatric Liver Diseases and on Liver Transplantation in the Trans-NIH Action Plan for Liver Disease Research. Issues that compromise long-term well-being and survival but are amenable to existing and new research efforts were presented and discussed. Areas of research that further enhanced the research priorities in the Action Plan for Liver Disease Research included collection of longitudinal data to define emerging trends of clinical challenges; identification of risk factors associated with long-term immunosuppression complications; development of tolerance-inducing regimens; definition of biomarkers that reflect the level of clinical immunosuppression; development of instruments for the measurement of health wellness; identification of risk factors that impede growth and intellectual development before and after liver transplantation and identification of barriers and facilitators that impact nonadherence and transition of care for adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Bucuvalas
- Pediatric Liver Care Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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22
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of end-stage pediatric liver disease and liver transplantation on growth and final height. PATIENTS AND METHODS We evaluated growth at 2 years (n = 101) and 5 years (n = 63) after pediatric liver transplantation (LTx). Twenty-three children reached final height. Height was expressed as a standard deviation score of the target height (zTH score) of each patient. RESULTS At the first 2 years after LTx, the zTH score was significantly increased from -1.7 to -1.3 SD (P < 0.05). Growth at 2 or 5 years after LTx, expressed as DeltazTH score, was positively correlated with pretransplant growth retardation (P < 0.05). In comparison with patients with noncholestatic primary liver disease, patients with cholestatic primary liver disease were more severely growth retarded before LTx (zTH score -2.0 vs -1.2 SD, P < 0.05) and had better growth in the first 2 years after LTx (DeltazTH score +0.6 vs -0.1 SD, P < 0.05). Twelve of the 23 patients had a final height below -1.3 SD of their target height. CONCLUSIONS Growth retardation is common in children before LTx, particularly in children with an underlying cholestatic disease. After LTx, catch-up growth was partial and was prominent only in cholestatic children who had been severely growth retarded before LTx. After LTx during childhood, approximately 50% of patients reach a final height lower than -1.3 SD of their genetic potential.
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- Estella M Alonso
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Children's Memorial, Hospital, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.
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24
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Valta H, Jalanko H, Holmberg C, Helenius I, Mäkitie O. Impaired bone health in adolescents after liver transplantation. Am J Transplant 2008; 8:150-7. [PMID: 17973968 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2007.02015.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Long-term complications related to immunosuppressive medication are an important problem after liver transplantation (OLT). This study was carried out to evaluate the bone health and risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures in 40 pediatric liver transplant recipients. The results of 208 longitudinal bone mineral density (BMD) measurements were analyzed retrospectively. In addition, a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed to assess the bone mineral content more precisely and to detect subclinical vertebral fractures (VF). The median age of the patients was 14 years and mean postoperative follow-up 7.0 years. The results showed that over half (58%) had lumbar spine (LS) Z-score </=-1.0 and one-fifth (18%) had asymptomatic VF. LS Z-score tended to increase from the first year after OLT, but during puberty the bone mass gain was suboptimal and Z-scores decreased in some subjects. Patients with VF were older at the time of OLT (p = 0.002) and their LS Z-score was lower (p = 0.001). Children transplanted before 10 years of age had less VF (p = 0.004) and higher LS Z-score (p = 0.005) than older patients. In conclusion, adolescent liver recipients are prone to osteoporosis and prevention should be targeted especially to this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Valta
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, Hospital for Children and Adolescents, University of Helsinki, Finland
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25
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Abstract
Pediatric liver transplant patients are now routinely surviving 10 years or more. Beyond the first year after transplant, surgical biliary or vascular complications are rare, and the incidence of acute rejection episodes falls precipitously. Attention is turning to minimizing the toxicity of immunosuppressive regimens and their potential negative impact on growth, bone health, cognitive development, renal function, and quality of life. Innovative combinations of immunosuppressive medications are being used as initial management after transplantation to minimize acute rejection and allow rapid weaning of corticosteroids and reduction in maintenance levels of calcineurin inhibitors. The substitution of potentially less toxic immunosuppressive agents, such as mycophenolate mofetil and rapamycin, is being studied in patients who develop renal dysfunction. A major current emphasis is on defining the natural history of long-term graft injury and elucidating histopathologic changes that mimic autoimmune chronic active hepatitis but are likely a form of chronic rejection due to production by the recipient of antibodies to foreign graft antigens. As patients survive longer, we are seeing various forms of immune dysregulation engendered by the presence of the graft and chronic immunosuppression of the host. By defining the resulting patterns of graft injury and understanding their immunopathogenesis, we can devise rational adjustments in immunosuppression that will preserve graft function and maximize graft life.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Treem
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 445 Lenox Road, Box 49, Brooklyn, NY, 11203-2098, USA.
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26
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Mejia A, Barshes N, Halff G, Goss J, Washburn WK. Use of split-liver allografts does not impair pediatric recipient growth. Liver Transpl 2007; 13:145-8. [PMID: 17029283 DOI: 10.1002/lt.20955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The use of split-liver (SL) allografts continues to be an excellent option for many pediatric recipients. Patient and graft survival with this graft type are comparable to patient and graft survival with whole organ grafts. Quality-of-life issues, specifically growth, for SL recipients have not been compared to those of recipients of more conventional whole-organ recipients. Pediatric recipients of SL and whole allografts at 2 institutions were identified. Height, z score, and delta z score were calculated for all recipients for each year after transplant. Between 1995 and 2004, 201 pediatric liver transplants were analyzed. Data were collected on 39 split-graft recipients and 36 whole-size recipients. Only subjects 3 years or younger were included in the study. Growth retardation was present in all recipients at transplant. Height z score post split and whole-size transplant were not statistically different at 1- (P = 0.65), 2- (P = 0.13), and 3-year (P = 0.32) anniversaries, respectively. Catch-up growth was present only in recipients of split grafts. In conclusion, the use of split grafts as opposed to whole-size grafts revealed no significant differences in terms of linear growth. Our report indicates that split-liver transplantation does not impair recipient growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Mejia
- Transplant Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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27
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Chen CL, Concejero A, Wang CC, Wang SH, Lin CC, Liu YW, Yong CC, Yang CH, Lin TS, Chiang YC, Jawan B, Huang TL, Cheng YF, Eng HL. Living donor liver transplantation for biliary atresia: a single-center experience with first 100 cases. Am J Transplant 2006; 6:2672-9. [PMID: 16939513 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2006.01528.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to present our institutional experience in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) as a treatment for end-stage liver disease in children with biliary atresia (BA). A retrospective review of transplant records was performed. One hundred BA patients (52 males and 48 females) underwent LDLT. The mean follow-up period was 85.5 months. The mean age was 2.4 years. The mean preoperative weight, height, and computed GFR were 12.2 kg, 82.5 cm, and 116.4 ml/min/1.73 m2, respectively. Twenty-seven patients were below 1 year of age, and 49 patients were below 10 kg at the time of transplantation. Ninety-six had had previous Kasai operation prior to transplant. The mean recipient operative time was 628 min. The mean recipient intraoperative blood loss was 176 ml. Thirty-five did not require blood or blood component transfusion. The left lateral segment (64) was the most common type of graft used. There were 27 operative complications which included 3 reoperations for postoperative bleeding, 9 portal vein, 4 hepatic vein, 4 hepatic artery, and 7 biliary complications. There was one in-hospital mortality and one retransplantation. The overall rejection rate was 20%. The overall mortality rate was 3%. The 6-month, 1-year and 5-year actual recipient survival rates were 99%, 98% and 98%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-L Chen
- Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Kaohsiung Medical Center, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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28
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Abstract
Growth is an important feature of childhood, but it is usually impaired before and after organ transplantation. Modest catch-up growth often occurs after renal transplantation. Nevertheless, patients remain short due to the effects of steroids used for immunosuppression. Children with chronic liver failure are also growth impaired, although not to the same extent. They also frequently have poor catch up growth after transplantation, again due to steroids. There are several randomized controlled clinical trials reporting growth hormone (GH) use after renal transplantation. These consistently show a beneficial effect of GH on linear growth. Patients with histories of frequent acute rejections before GH may have increased risk of acute rejection during treatment. Few data exist on liver transplant patients, although GH also appears effective. GH use may be safe and effective for renal transplant recipients who have been stable without acute rejection episodes. There needs to be long-term study of GH use in liver and renal transplant patients. It is critical to focus efforts on improving growth in renal failure before transplantation through GH use and to improve posttransplant growth in all recipients by minimizing steroid exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Fuqua
- Section of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA.
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29
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Spada M, Petz W, Bertani A, Riva S, Sonzogni A, Giovannelli M, Torri E, Torre G, Colledan M, Gridelli B. Randomized trial of basiliximab induction versus steroid therapy in pediatric liver allograft recipients under tacrolimus immunosuppression. Am J Transplant 2006; 6:1913-21. [PMID: 16771811 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2006.01406.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Avoidance of corticosteroids could be beneficial after pediatric liver transplantation (LTx). To test this hypothesis, we performed a randomized prospective study to compare immunosuppression with tacrolimus (TAC) and steroids versus TAC and basiliximab (BAS) after pediatric LTx. Seventy-two patients were recruited, 36 receiving TAC and steroids and 36 TAC and BAS. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of the first rejection episode. Secondary endpoints were the cumulative incidence and severity of rejection, patient and graft survival, and incidence of adverse events. Overall 1-year patient and graft survival rates were 91.4% and 85.5% in the steroid group, and 88.6% and 80% in the BAS group (p = NS). Patients free from rejection were 87.7% in the BAS group and 67.7% in the steroid group (p = 0.036). The use of BAS was associated with a 63.6% reduction in incidence of acute rejection episodes. Overall incidence of infection was 72.3% in the steroid group and 50% in the BAS group (p = 0.035). We conclude that the combination of TAC with BAS is an alternative to TAC and steroid immunosuppression in pediatric LTx, which allows for a significant reduction in the incidence of acute rejection and infectious complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Spada
- Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad alta specializzazione, IsMeTT, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Italy.
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30
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Ueno T, Kato T, Revas K, Gaynor J, Velasco M, Selvaggi G, McLaughlin G, Hernandez E, Kramer RE, Krame R, Thompson J, Tzakis A. Growth After Intestinal Transplant in Children. Transplant Proc 2006; 38:1702-4. [PMID: 16908254 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2006.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Intestinal transplantation has been more frequent in children with intestinal failure. However, the growth after intestinal transplantation has not been well documented. The demographics, transplant information, postoperative complications, heights, and weights were obtained retrospectively from medical records on 23 children who underwent intestinal transplantation. Z-scores were calculated from the STAT Growth-BP, based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention growth chart (2000). Transplantations were performed between 1999 and 2004. Patient median age was 1.1 years (range 0.5 to 6.9 years). Twelve were boys and 11 girls. Seventeen children received multivisceral transplantations, one modified multivisceral transplantation, and five isolated intestinal transplantations. Baseline immunosuppression consisted of tacrolimus and corticosteroids. Daclizumab was used as induction agent in 18 patients; alemtuzumab, in five patients. Median pretransplant Z-scores were median -1.67 (n = 23) in weight, and median -3.36 (n = 21) in height. Pretransplant growth was significantly retarded. We analyzed significantly retarded patients with Z-score <-2.0. The change of weight Z-score from pretransplant was: 1.25 at 6 months (n = 11), 1.46 at 12 months (n = 10), and 2.21 at 24 months (n = 7). The change of height Z-score: 1.9 at 6 months (n = 16), 1.42 at 12 months (n = 13), and 1.51 at 24 months (n = 10). Z-score significantly improved (P < .002, ANOVA). Among the analyzed factors sex, age at transplant, length of stay, and rejection within 6 months, were not associated with catch-up growth. Children with retarded growth showed significant catch-up after successful intestinal transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Ueno
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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31
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Mager DR, Wykes LJ, Roberts EA, Ball RO, Pencharz PB. Effect of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) on branched-chain amino acid requirement. Pediatr Res 2006; 59:829-34. [PMID: 16641206 DOI: 10.1203/01.pdr.0000219302.21321.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Little is known regarding the impact of liver transplantation on amino acid requirements in children. Since plasma levels of the branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) are decreased in the presence of normal levels of the aromatic amino acids after liver transplantation, normalization of hepatic function may not fully correct changes in BCAA metabolism that occur in the pretransplant period. The goal of the present study was to determine total BCAA requirements of children following liver transplantation. The requirement of total BCAA was determined using indicator amino acid oxidation (IAAO) in five clinically stable children (5.7 +/- 3.5 y, mean +/- SD) 1-8 y post liver transplantation. Children received in random order 6 graded intakes of total BCAA. Individual BCAA in the test diet were provided in the same proportions as present in egg protein to minimize the potential interactive effects of individual BCAA on assessment of requirement. Total BCAA requirement was determined by measuring the oxidation of L-[1-13C] phenylalanine to 13CO2 [F13CO2 in micromol/kg/h], after a primed, continuous infusion of the tracer and using a two-phase linear regression crossover regression analysis. The estimated average requirement and the upper limit of the 95% CI for total BCAA in children who have undergone liver transplantation were 172 and 206 mg/kg/d), respectively. Total BCAA requirement in children who have undergone orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) remain increased in the post-liver transplant period when compared with healthy school aged children, but is decreased when compared with children with mild-moderate chronic cholestatic (MCC) liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana R Mager
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, The Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5G IX8
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Park SJ, Rim SH, Kim KM, Lee JH, Choi BH, Lee SY, Chang SH, Lee YJ, Lee SG. Long-term growth of pediatric patients following living-donor liver transplantation. J Korean Med Sci 2005; 20:835-40. [PMID: 16224159 PMCID: PMC2779282 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2005.20.5.835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to determine the influence of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) on long-term growth, we studied the progress of 36 children who had survived more than 5 yr after LDLT from 1994 to 1999. The median age at the transplantation was 1.5 yr (range: 6 months-15 yr) and the median follow-up period was 6.5 yr (range: 5-9 yr). A height standard deviation score (zH) was analyzed for each patient according to medical records. Significant catch-up growth occurred within 2 yr after LDLT with a mean zH changing from -1.2 to 0.0 and was maintained for up to 7 yr post-transplantation (zH-0.1). Younger children (<2 yr) were more growth-retarded at the time of LDLT, but showed higher catch-up growth rates and their final zH was greater than that of older children. Children with liver cirrhosis were more growth-retarded at the time of LDLT, but showed significant catch-up growth and their final height was similar to children with fulminant hepatitis. Growth in children who experienced significant hepatic dysfunction after LDLT was not significantly different from those without graft dysfunction. There was no difference between the types of immunosuppressants used. Our finding suggests that LDLT can result in adequate catchup linear growth, and this effect can persist even after 7 yr post-transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Jong Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Rim
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Mo Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joo Hoon Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bo Hwa Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seon Yun Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soo Hee Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Joo Lee
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Gyu Lee
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Lucianetti A, Guizzetti M, Bertani A, Corno V, Maldini G, Pinelli D, Aluffi A, Codazzi D, Spotti A, Spada M, Gridelli B, Torre G, Colledan M. Liver transplantation in children weighting less than 6 kg: the Bergamo experience. Transplant Proc 2005; 37:1143-5. [PMID: 15848650 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2004.12.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (OLT) remains a major medical and surgical challenge in small patients. From October 1997 through July 2004, 17 babies less than 6 kg underwent 18 OLTs. Median age and weight were 3 months (range = 1 to 9) and 4.7 kg (range = 2.2 to 5.8). Two whole, one reduced, and 15 split-liver grafts (left lateral segments) were obtained from donors of median age and weight of 11.6 years (range = 0.5 to 62) and 50 kg (range = 7 to 63). Donor-to-recipient median weight ratio (D/R) was 9.1 kg (range = 1.3 to 17.6) and median graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR) was 5% (range = 3.1 to 10). The incidence of biliary complications was 23%. The only vascular complication was a portal vein thrombosis (6%). Fourteen patients (79%) are alive with good graft function at a median follow-up of 39 months (range = 0.5 to 74). Three patients (all status 1) died on postoperative day 285 (brain death), 17 (multiorgan failure), and 229 (cardiovascular failure during retransplantation). Actuarial patient survivals at 6 months and 6 years are 94% and 78% while graft survivals are 89% and 74%, respectively. Currently all the patients listed as UNOS status 2 and 3 (73%) at the time of transplant are alive. During the same period one premature neonate (1.8 kg) who presented with fulminant hepatic failure died on the waiting list after 12 days. Our data confirm that the extensive use of a split-liver technique from small adult or pediatric cadaveric donors can offer the benefits of liver transplantation to small pediatric candidates with excellent results.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lucianetti
- Centro Trapianti di Fegato e Polmone, Ospedali Riuniti di Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy.
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Evans IVR, Belle SH, Wei Y, Penovich C, Ruppert K, Detre KM. Post-transplantation growth among pediatric recipients of liver transplantation. Pediatr Transplant 2005; 9:480-5. [PMID: 16048600 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3046.2005.00326.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Improving a patient's quality-of-life (QOL) post-liver transplantation is of great importance. An aspect of improved QOL is the restoration of normal growth patterns in pediatric patients. To describe the post-transplantation growth patterns of 72 children included in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Liver Transplantation Database (NIDDK-LTD), multilevel models were used, according to which children who waited more than a year for transplantation were smaller, compared with age and sex matched peers, at transplantation than children who waited less than a year while children who were growth retarded at transplantation experienced a larger yearly comparison height increase than children who were not growth retarded. The analysis also showed that boys older than 2 yr and younger than 13 yr at transplantation and girls older than 2 yr and younger than 11 yr at transplantation were significantly less growth retarded at transplantation than boys and girls under the age of 2 yr at transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idris V R Evans
- University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public Health, PA 15261, USA.
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Puustinen L, Jalanko H, Holmberg C, Merenmies J. Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Treatment after Liver Transplantation in Childhood: The 5-year Outcome. Transplantation 2005; 79:1241-6. [PMID: 15880078 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000161668.09170.f4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because the results of short-term recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) treatment in children with growth impairment after liver transplantation (LTx) have been promising, we have studied the long-term effects of rhGH on growth and graft function after LTx. METHODS Indications for rhGH treatment were height standard deviation score (hSDS) below -2.0 or growth velocity SDS below 0 and LTx at least 18 months before inclusion. Eight growth-retarded children were treated with rhGH for more than 5 years. RESULTS During the first year, median growth rate improved from 3.3 to 7.0 cm/year. In the second and third year, growth velocity remained high at 6.6 cm/year and 6.2 cm/year, respectively (P=0.008). In the fourth year, median growth velocity started to decline but still remained above baseline during the fifth year of treatment (4.2 cm/year). The median hSDS improved from -3.6 to -2.7. During the rhGH treatment, no acute rejection episodes were detected, and graft function remained stable in all except one patient. She was diagnosed with chronic rejection in the third year of rhGH treatment. The patient had elevated liver enzymes and abnormal liver function tests already before rhGH treatment. CONCLUSIONS The efficacy of rhGH treatment is sustained after the first year in liver-transplant children with non-GH-deficient growth retardation. Because of a potential risk of side effects, close monitoring of these patients is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri Puustinen
- The Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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Fouquet V, Alves A, Branchereau S, Grabar S, Debray D, Jacquemin E, Devictor D, Durand P, Baujard C, Fabre M, Pariente D, Chardot C, Dousset B, Massault PP, Bernard D, Houssin D, Bernard O, Gauthier F, Soubrane O. Long-term outcome of pediatric liver transplantation for biliary atresia: a 10-year follow-up in a single center. Liver Transpl 2005; 11:152-60. [PMID: 15666395 DOI: 10.1002/lt.20358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to review our experience in orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) for biliary atresia (BA) in children and analyze the survival and prognostic factors, and long-term outcome. We reviewed 332 OLTs performed in 280 children between the years 1986 and 2000. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed on patient and graft survivals according to recipients' and donors' characteristics as well as intraoperative data. The long-term outcome among the 80 children living at 10 years after OLT was studied according to growth, immunosuppressive therapy, and liver and renal functions. Liver graft status was eventually documented by liver biopsy. Status of rehabilitation was assessed by reviewing school performance and employment. Overall patient survival rates at 1, 5, and 10 years were 85, 82, and 82%, respectively, and the corresponding overall graft survival rates were 77, 73, and 71%. In the multivariate analysis, we identified 4 independent prognostic factors: polysplenia syndrome (P = .03), United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) status (P = .05), donor's age (P = .01), and perioperative surgical complications (P = .03). At 10 years after transplant, 80 children were alive and had normal growth rates. Liver histology was abnormal in 73% of these long-term survivors, mainly due to chronic rejection and centrilobular fibrosis. A total of 63 of the 80 children attended normal school and in 55 children (69%) school performance was not delayed. In conclusion, we discovered that a good long-term survival could be achieved after liver transplantation for BA, with a 82% survival rate at 10 years with normal scholastic studies in the majority of recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Fouquet
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
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D'Antiga L, Ballan D, Luisetto G, Cillo U, Guariso G, Zancan L. Long-Term Outcome of Bone Mineral Density in Children who Underwent a Successful Liver Transplantation. Transplantation 2004; 78:899-903. [PMID: 15385811 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000136987.38729.c0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has previously been shown that bone mineral density (BMD) during the first year after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in children with osteodystrophy increases remarkably and according to height. The effect of posttransplant factors possibly influencing bone mass in the long-term after a successful OLT in children is unknown. METHODS Eighteen patients (9 male), median age 13.3 (range 4.7-23.7) years, median time after OLT 8.3 (1.1-17.3) years were enrolled. Indications for OLT were biliary atresia (8), Alagille (3), hepatoblastoma (2), NonA-NonG acute liver failure (2), intrahepatic cholestasis, cryptogenic cirrhosis, and cholesteryl-ester disease (1 each). At OLT, all were prepubertal and 12 were severely cholestatic. We recorded anthropometric data, immunosuppression, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), biochemical markers of bone metabolism, and liver function. RESULTS Six children were on steroid therapy, eight were on cyclosporine, nine on tacrolimus. Median L1 to L4 spinal BMD was 0.720 (range 0.524-1.127) g/cm3, Z score -0.70 (-2.2- +2.1), height Z score -0.31 (-1.83- +1.96). Median bone mineral apparent density was 0.112 (0.084-0.142) (normal value 0.10-0.14) g/cm3. Median alanine aminotransferase level was 22 (range 11-79) IU/L, urinary free deoxypyridinolines 20.6 (7.1-62) nmol/mmol creatinine, osteocalcin 14 (2.3-45) microg/L, parathyroid hormone 51 (2-87) ng/L, Vitamin D3 67 (17-102) nmol/L. CONCLUSION BMD after the first year from a successful pediatric liver transplantation is normal. Our study suggests that normal bone density in this setting is maintained for at least 1 decade.
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López-Espinosa J, Yeste D, Iglesias J, Ortega J, Margarit C, Gussinyé M, Carrascosa A. Analysis of growth during prepubertal years in long-term survivors after pediatric orthotopic liver transplantation. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2004; 17:1221-9. [PMID: 15506682 DOI: 10.1515/jpem.2004.17.9.1221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growth after pediatric liver transplantation (LT) has been the subject of reviews. The conclusions have not been consistent. OBJECTIVE To describe post-LT growth patterns in prepubertal liver transplant recipients and identify variables affecting their growth. METHODS Sixty-seven prepubertal transplant recipients met the inclusion criteria. Variables assessed were age, sex, pretransplant lack of growth, type of transplantation, primary diagnosis, liver and kidney function at one year post-LT, complications and retransplantation, prednisone therapy duration, allograft rejection episodes during the first year, cholesterol, triglycerides and immunosuppressive regimen. Mean follow-up was 3.5 years (range: 2-6 years). RESULTS Growth according to baseline z-score, indications for transplantation and steroid withdrawal showed significant differences at 2 years post-LT. CONCLUSIONS The causes of poorest z-scores in height post-LT were: height z-scores under -2.0 at transplantation, metabolic diagnosis, and use of steroids beyond 1 year post-LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús López-Espinosa
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Service, Hospital Materno-Infantil Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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Abstract
Adult stature and peak bone mass are achieved through childhood growth and development. Multiple factors impair this process in children undergoing solid organ transplantation, including chronic illness, pretransplant osteodystrophy, use of medications with negative impact on bone, and post-transplant renal dysfunction. While growth delay and short stature remain common, the most severe forms of transplant-related bone disease, fracture and avascular necrosis, appear to have become less common in the pediatric age group. Osteopenia is very prevalent in adult transplant recipients and probably also in pediatrics, but its occurrence and sequelae are difficult to study in these groups due to methodological shortfalls of planar densitometry related to short stature and altered patterns of growth and development. Although the effect on lifetime peak bone mass is not clear, data from adult populations suggest an elevated long-term risk of bone disease in children receiving transplants. Optimal management of pretransplantation osteodystrophy, attention to post-transplant renal insufficiency among both renal and non-renal transplant patients, reduction of steroid dose in select patients, and supplementation with calcium plus vitamin D during expected periods of maximal bone loss may improve bone health. Careful research is required to determine the role of bisphosphonate therapy in pediatric transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Saland
- Department of Pediatrics, The Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029-6574, USA.
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40
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López-Espinosa JA, Yeste-Fernández D, Iglesias-Berengue J, Ortega-López J, Margarit-Creixell C, Gussinyé-Canadell M, Carrascosa-Lezcano A. Factors affecting catch-up growth after liver transplantation. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2004; 17:1097-103. [PMID: 15379421 DOI: 10.1515/jpem.2004.17.8.1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reported incidence of catch-up growth following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) ranges widely, from 0% to 97%. OBJECTIVE We undertook bivariate analysis of multiple factors that might affect post-OLT growth in children undergoing OLT, and described the results with different parameters used to determine catch-up growth. METHODS Eighty patients met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS Catch-up growth occurred in 14% during the first 6 months, 15% at 1 year, 39% at 2 years, 16% between 3 and 6 years, and 16% after 6 years post-OLT. The earlier catch-up growth was shown in metabolic diagnosis, patients over 10 years old and those without steroids at 1 year post-OLT. CONCLUSIONS It is difficult to determine an acceptable definition of catch-up growth. We suggest that Zvel score > or =0 is the best parameter to evaluate catch-up growth, since the results are more normally distributed. Patients with prednisone withdrawal later than 1 year post-OLT and those with diagnosis of hepatitis and cirrhosis showed the slowest catch-up growth.
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Alonso G, Duca P, Pasqualini T, D'Agostino D. Evaluation of catch-up growth after liver transplantation in children with biliary atresia. Pediatr Transplant 2004; 8:255-9. [PMID: 15176963 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3046.2004.00160.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Orthotopic liver transplantation (Tx) has improved survival in infants with extrahepatic biliary atresia (BA) when portoenteroanastomosis fails. Symptoms leading to Tx include liver failure, poor quality of life and growth failure. The objective of the study was to determine catch-up growth in children with BA. Medical records and growth data of 36 patients (24 girls) who received a Tx due to BA were analyzed. Thirty-two patients completed 3 yr and 15 patients 7 yr of follow-up after Tx. At Tx, the median age was 2.7 yr (range 0.7-12.6) and mean height Z score (+/-s.d.) was -1.56 (+/-1.3). Patients were divided in two groups according to age at Tx: group I (n = 10), younger than 1.0 yr, and group II (n = 26) older than 1.0 yr. Median age (range) at Tx in group I was 0.8 yr (0.7-1.0) and in group II it was 3.35 yr (1.25-12.6). Thirteen patients (nine in group I) were receptors of living related donors. We evaluated linear growth, liver and renal function, immunosuppressive regimen and allograft rejection episodes. We did not find any significant differences in allograft or renal function, immunosuppressive therapy and number of acute rejection episodes or height Z score at Tx, second and third year post-Tx between both groups. The mean height Z score at Tx in group I was -1.61 and in group II -1.54; at the second year, group I -0.66 and group II -1.08; at the third year, group I -0.17 and group II -0.85; and at the seventh year (total group) -0.3. However, the height gain at the third year was better in group I than in group II (p < 0.01, t-test). Height Z score at the third year improved more than 1 SDS in seven out of eight patients in group I and in only nine out of 24 in group II (odds ratio 11.6). We also found a correlation between height gain at the third year and age at Tx (r-0.65) and between height gain at the third year and height Z score at Tx (r-0.54) (Pearson, p < 0.05). Children with BA who are transplanted before 12 months of age presented better catch-up growth without change survival and morbidity. Orthotopic liver Tx improves survival and also enables height gain in these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Alonso
- Section of Endocrinology, Liver Transplant Center, Pediatric Department, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Cohen A, Addonizio LJ, Softness B, Lamour JM, McMahon DJ, Addesso V, Diamond BE, Shane E. Growth and skeletal maturation after pediatric cardiac transplantation. Pediatr Transplant 2004; 8:126-35. [PMID: 15049792 DOI: 10.1046/j.1399-3046.2003.00123.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
To examine the effects of cardiac transplantation on skeletal maturation and linear growth, we retrospectively evaluated annual bone age determinations and growth parameters of pediatric cardiac transplant recipients followed at our center. Included in the analysis were records of 86 patients (32 females) who had received a cardiac transplant at our institution between 1984 and 1998. Bone age delay of > or =12 months was apparent in 38.5% at the time of transplantation. At some point in their post-transplant course, 23 patients (29%) had one or more bone age measurements that were > or =36 months delayed with respect to chronological age. Children transplanted before age seven and those with a pretransplantation diagnosis of cardiomyopathy experienced the most significant decrement in skeletal maturation after transplantation. High cyclosporin A levels and low body mass index were the only parameters found to be associated with delayed bone age. Although the majority of children grew at a normal rate after transplantation, height Z scores and height age were adversely affected regardless of the type of heart disease or the age at transplantation. The pathogenesis of both delayed skeletal maturation and growth retardation in this population warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Cohen
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Kasahara M, Kiuchi T, Inomata Y, Uryuhara K, Sakamoto S, Ito T, Fujimoto Y, Ogura Y, Oike F, Tanaka K. Living-related liver transplantation for Alagille syndrome. Transplantation 2003; 75:2147-50. [PMID: 12829928 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000066804.33006.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Alagille syndrome (AGS) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by chronic cholestasis, congenital heart disease, peculiar facies, butterfly-like vertebrae, and posterior embryotoxon. Liver dysfunction is the common presentation of AGS, and liver transplantation may be indicated. This study examines the outcome of living-related liver transplantation (LRLT) for AGS. Twenty patients with AGS (median age 5.0 years, range 0.6-12.9) underwent LRLT at Kyoto University Hospital between June 1990 and February 2002. Five potential donors were excluded because of paucity of intrahepatic bile ducts diagnosed by preoperative liver biopsy and one because of a hepatic vascular anomaly. The overall 5-year patient survival was 80.4%. Three patients died as the result of the following: complications related to surgery, heart failure caused by progressive pulmonary artery stenosis, and a graft with unsuspected bile duct paucity. Liver dysfunction was improved in all successful cases, and catch-up growth occurred in 90% of patients. LRLT is an efficacious treatment modality for AGS if donors are selected by cautious evaluation to rule out unsuspected bile duct paucity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mureo Kasahara
- Organ Transplant Unit, Department of Transplant Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan. mureo@kuhp. kyoto-u.ac.jp
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Diem HVT, Sokal EM, Janssen M, Otte JB, Reding R. Steroid withdrawal after pediatric liver transplantation: a long-term follow-up study in 109 recipients. Transplantation 2003; 75:1664-70. [PMID: 12777853 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000063938.49112.c2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Steroids remain an important component of maintenance immunosuppression in liver transplantation, but when administered for a long period they may be associated with multiple severe side effects, particularly growth suppression in children. This study was conducted to clarify the balance of potential benefits and risks of steroid withdrawal (SW) in pediatric liver transplantation. METHODS Between April 1984 and July 2000, 109 pediatric recipients with SW and at least 12 months of follow-up after SW were retrospectively reviewed and divided into three groups according to the type of anticalcineurin at SW: group I (cyclosporine, n=25), group II (cyclosporine microemulsion, n=25), and group III (tacrolimus, n=59). Steroids were withdrawn after a three-step reduction of steroid dosage (taper down to the substitution dose of 0.25 mg/kg/day, switch to alternate-day therapy, progressive SW). Patients were regularly followed up for clinical and biochemical monitoring. RESULTS Median follow-up was 8.1 (range, 1.6-16.8) years. After SW, neither chronic rejection nor graft nor patient loss occurred. A trend toward lower anticalcineurin trough levels was observed in all groups. Glomerular filtration rate and fasting cholesterol were significantly better in group III (P<0.05). Median height z-score in all patients was -1.1 SD on alternate-day steroids versus -0.2 SD at the time of SW. Height z-score was slightly better in group III (NS). Early SW within 2 years after transplantation allowed a slightly better gain in growth. CONCLUSIONS SW in pediatric liver transplantation is safe and may be beneficial to height outcome. Tacrolimus seems to offer several advantages in the long-term outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanh Vo Thi Diem
- Pediatric Liver Transplant Program, Saint-Luc University Clinics, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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45
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Schulz KH, Wein C, Boeck A, Rogiers X, Burdelski M. Cognitive performance of children who have undergone liver transplantation. Transplantation 2003; 75:1236-40. [PMID: 12717209 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000062843.10397.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the cognitive status and quality of life (QoL) in the late postoperative phase of children who had undergone liver transplantation (LTx). METHODS The sample consisted of 29 children who had undergone LTx at our center. The children were at least 6 years of age and had received the transplant between 3 and 10 years (mean 6.4 years) previously. In 16 of the 29 children, a living-related transplantation had been performed. Cognitive function was assessed with the three subscales of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC): the sequential processing scale, simultaneous processing scale, and achievement scale. QoL was measured with a specific questionnaire for children. RESULTS The children scored below the population mean but within the normal range on all subscales of the K-ABC, except for the sequential processing scale, on which the children scored significantly below the norm and below their own performance on the simultaneous processing scale. Scores were below average for everyday and psychic functions and in the normal range for social and physical functions on the QoL questionnaire. Age at transplantation and achievement in the K-ABC were highly negatively correlated. A multiple regression analysis revealed that age and height at transplantation, and also to a lesser degree the type of transplantation, predict the level of cognitive functioning in the late postoperative phase. CONCLUSION We conclude that the cognitive functions and QoL of children in the late postoperative phase who have undergone LTx are at the lower end of the norm in the long-term follow-up. Children who are younger and more physically developed at the time of transplantation will have a better mental-development prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl-Heinz Schulz
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Hospital Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Kogan-Liberman D, Emre S, Shneider BL. Recent advances in pediatric liver transplantation. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2002; 4:84-97. [PMID: 11825546 DOI: 10.1007/s11894-002-0042-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric liver transplantation has matured into a well-established, highly successful treatment for advanced pediatric liver disease. Recent 1-year success rates range from 85% to 95%. This unprecedented achievement is the result of careful selection criteria and optimal timing of transplantation, technical advances in surgical technique, and improved treatment following transplant. This report highlights many recent published findings representing advances that have led to current successful approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Kogan-Liberman
- Department of Pediatrics, Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Box 1656, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
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Abstract
One of the ultimate goals of successful transplantation (Tx) in pediatric solid-organ transplant recipients is the attainment of optimal final adult height. Except for kidney Tx there are limited data to address this issue. Remarkably similar factors impact on growth in pediatric kidney, liver, and heart recipients. Age is a primary factor, with younger recipients exhibiting the greatest immediate catch-up growth. Graft function is a significant contributory factor: a reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) correlates with poor growth in kidney recipients, and the need for re-Tx is associated with impaired growth in liver recipients. The known adverse impact of corticosteroids on growth has led transplant physicians/surgeons to either modify the dose or attempt steroid withdrawal. In kidney and liver recipients this is associated with the development of acute rejection episodes. In infant heart transplant recipients the avoidance of maintenance corticosteroid immunosuppression is associated with normal growth velocity in the majority of recipients. With the marked improvement in patient and graft survival rates in pediatric solid-organ graft recipients, it is timely that the quality-of-life issues receive paramount attention. In children, normal growth following solid-organ Tx should be an achievable goal that results in normal final adult height.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard N Fine
- Department of Pediatrics, SUNY at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, New York 11794-8111, USA.
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Abstract
Children (defined as under 18 yr of age) account for approximately 12.5% of all liver transplants in the United States. Even though the annual number of liver transplantation procedures remains relatively constant, the population of long-term survivors of liver transplantation has grown. Presently, the population of long-term survivors of liver transplantation is 10-fold greater then the number of transplantations carried out each year. For long-term survivors of liver transplantation, the goal is to maintain graft function and wellness while decreasing the morbidity associated with long-term immunosuppression. The primary diagnosis leading to liver transplantation in children do not recur in the allograft. Consequently, many of the complications of liver transplantation, both early and long term, relate to the need for immunosuppression. Children may be at increased risk to develop significant end-organ damage as a result of increased serum lipid levels, elevated blood pressure, altered glucose metabolism, decreased renal function, cancer, and diminished bone accretion that occur as a result of immunosuppressive therapy or complications of therapy. As survival rates have increased, health care providers have begun to assess health-related quality of life. We will review our current knowledge of long-term outcome following pediatric liver transplantation in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Bucuvalas
- Pediatric Liver Care Center, Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA.
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Renz JF, de Roos M, Rosenthal P, Mudge C, Bacchetti P, Watson J, Roberts JP, Ascher NL, Emond JC. Posttransplantation growth in pediatric liver recipients. Liver Transpl 2001; 7:1040-55. [PMID: 11753906 DOI: 10.1053/jlts.2001.29413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this retrospective analysis was to evaluate the growth of 96 pediatric liver transplant recipients from February 1988 to June 1999. Inclusion criteria were the following: age younger than 18 years, follow-up longer than 1 year, transplantation for a nontumor indication, and no retransplantation. Linear height and growth velocity SD scores were correlated to age, sex, indication for transplantation, immunosuppression, and graft type. Transplant recipients of all ages and indications and both sexes were growth retarded at transplantation. Recipients aged younger than 24 months showed growth within the first year to achieve a height distribution equal to that of an age-matched population. Posttransplantation growth inversely correlated with height standard score at transplantation. Children older than 2 years at transplantation established new growth curves, but remained growth retarded. As children approached the prepubertal growth acceleration, growth deficits frequently were erased. Transplant recipients with biliary atresia and alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency showed increased growth performance compared with those who underwent transplantation for chronic hepatitis or fulminant hepatic failure. Boys were less growth retarded at transplantation and showed improved posttransplantation growth performance versus girls. No correlation to immunosuppression or graft type was identified. We conclude that early transplantation of children who show growth retardation is optimal for restoration of growth potential, whereas delaying transplantation in older children impedes potential growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- J F Renz
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
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Washburn K, Speeg KV, Esterl R, Cigarroa F, Pollack M, Tourtellot C, Maxwell P, Halff G. Steroid elimination 24 hours after liver transplantation using daclizumab, tacrolimus, and mycophenolate mofetil. Transplantation 2001; 72:1675-9. [PMID: 11726831 DOI: 10.1097/00007890-200111270-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corticosteroids have long been a cornerstone of orthotopic liver transplant (OLTx) immunosuppression. Newer, more potent, agents have successfully allowed for more rapid tapering and discontinuation of corticosteroids in OLTx recipients. We hypothesize that corticosteroids can be safely avoided after the first postoperative day (POD) using these newer agents. METHODS Thirty adult OLTx recipients were prospectively enrolled in a randomized open-label, institutional review board-approved protocol. Fifteen patients (group A) received our standard regimen of tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and corticosteroids, and 15 patients (group B) received daclizumab, 2 mg/kg on POD 0 and 14, with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and corticosteroids on POD 0 and 1 and then discontinuation. In both groups, mycophenolate mofetil was tapered off between 3 and 4 months after OLTx. Bone mineral densitometry was performed at 1, 3, and 6 months after OLTx. Quantitative hepatitis C virus (HCV) polymerase chain reaction was obtained at days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28. Retransplant recipients, patients with autoimmune hepatitis, or status 1 or 2A patients were excluded. RESULTS Patient and graft survival rates were 93% (group A) and 100% (group B) with mean follow-up of 18 months. Patients in group B had more rejection diagnosed (25%) compared with group A (6.7%). Yet, the incidence of biopsy-proven acute rejection requiring steroid therapy was 6.7% in both groups. Hispanic race was common in groups A and B (87% and 74%). A total of six biopsies were performed in group B, with three patients having mild rejection responding to an increase in tacrolimus without the need for corticosteroids. One patient in group B was switched to cyclosporine for severe neurotoxicity and remains on monotherapy with normal graft function. No patient in either group developed a requirement for additional antihypertensive medication. Likewise, there were no patients with new-onset diabetes. The bone mineral densitometry was higher in group B at every time point but did not reach statistical significance. Serum cholesterol level was significantly (P=0.03) lower in group B at 6 months after OLTx. Serum triglycerides were also lower, but the difference was not significant. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction for HCV-positive patients (group A, n=7; group B, n=8) frequently increased after OLTx. There was no correlative decrease associated with daclizumab. At present, two patients in group A have documented HCV recurrence. CONCLUSION Corticosteroids can be safely avoided after POD 1 with the current regimen. With early follow-up, there is no difference in hypertension or diabetes or bone density. Lipid panels tended to be lower in patients who were not on corticosteroids. Longer term follow-up will be needed to demonstrate the potential advantage of corticosteroid avoidance in regard to hypertension, diabetes, and possibly HCV recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Washburn
- Division of Organ Transplantation, UT Health Science Center, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr., MC7858, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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