Predictors of relapse to alcohol and illicit drugs after liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease. Transplantation. 2008;86:1090-1095. [PMID: 18946347 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e3181872710]

Liver Transplantation in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is the foremost cause of liver-related mortality in the United States comprising a spectrum of conditions from simple hepatic steatosis to more severe alcohol-associated cirrhosis and alcohol-associated hepatitis. There has been growing acceptance and application of early liver transplantation (eLT) for ALD. There is robust evidence for excellent patient and graft survival rates for eLT for ALD. Nevertheless, recidivism remains a major concern. This article aims to explore the recent trends in liver transplantation for ALD, as well as the advances in practice and outcomes, with focus on eLT and emerging challenges in this field.

The Complex Relationship Between Pain, Mental Health, and Quality-of-Life in Patients With Cirrhosis Undergoing Liver Transplant Evaluation

GOALS AND BACKGROUND

Patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant evaluation have high rates of pain and mental health comorbidities; both may significantly impair health-related quality of life (HRQL). We investigated the association between pain, anxiety/depression, and HRQL in this population.

STUDY

In 62 patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant evaluation, we performed 4 validated assessments to characterize: pain (Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form, BPI-SF), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-8), and liver-specific HRQL (Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire). The presence of pain was determined using the BPI-SF screening question. Linear regression was used to identify demographic or clinical factors predictive of pain severity (PS) and interference (PI) and to evaluate the association between pain, anxiety/depression, and HRQL.

RESULTS

Seventy-one percent of patients reported pain, 26% had clinical depression, and 24% had moderate-severe anxiety. Neither liver disease severity, nor its complications were associated with pain (PS or PI), but anxiety and depression were predictors of pain on bivariate analysis. Only depression remained a significant predictor of PS ( b =0.28, P<0.05 ) and PI ( b =0.30, P <0.05) in multivariable models. HRQL was inversely associated with PS, PI, depression, and anxiety, but only anxiety ( b =-0.14, P =0.003) remained associated with HRQL in the adjusted model.

CONCLUSIONS

Pain is present in over 70% of patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant evaluation. Anxiety and depression were highly correlated with pain and appeared to be key drivers in predicting poor HRQL. Evaluating and managing mental health comorbidities should be explored as a strategy to improve HRQL in patients with cirrhosis and pain.

Psychosocial predictors of return to alcohol use after liver transplant: A multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND

Alcohol use after liver transplant (LT) is associated with higher rates of graft loss and increased mortality; however, there are limited data evaluating predictors of return to alcohol use using biochemical markers like phosphatidylethanol (PEth).

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective cohort study evaluated psychosocial predictors of return to alcohol use using PEth testing in patients transplanted for alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). The study included 223 patients at three centers who had received a LT for ALD and had at least one PEth measurement post-LT.

RESULTS

The rate of return to alcohol use was 6.9 cases per 100 person-years (26 patients total) over a median 555 days of follow-up after transplant. Younger age (HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.92-0.99, p = 0.02), mental health comorbidities (HR 2.83; 95% CI 1.25-6.39, p = 0.01), and non-Hispanic White race (HR 3.79; 95% CI 1.42-10.15, p = 0.01) were associated with return to alcohol use post-LT. There was no difference between post-LT return to alcohol use rates or short-term survival among patients with less than 6 months of sobriety prior to listing compared with those with more than 6 months. Patients with sustained alcohol use post-LT had increased odds of history of illicit substance use (OR 5.20; 95% CI 1.01-26.83, p = 0.04) but no significant difference in time from the last drink to listing (OR 1.03; 95% CI 0.18-5.80, p = 0.97).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings emphasize the importance of mental health comorbidities rather than period of sobriety in predicting post-LT return to alcohol use. Furthermore, the higher risk of return to alcohol use in non-Hispanic White patients suggests a potential disparity with referral and selection of higher risk White patients.

Liver Transplantation in Chronic Liver Disease and Acute on Chronic Liver Failure- Indication, Timing and Practices

Liver transplantation (LT) is the second most common solid organ transplantation worldwide. LT is considered the best and most definitive therapeutic option for patients with decompensated chronic liver disease (CLD), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), acute liver failure (ALF), and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). The etiology of CLD shows wide geographical variation, with viral hepatitis being the major etiology in the east and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) in the west. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on an increasing trend and is expected to be the most common etiology on a global scale. Since the first successful LT, there have been radical changes in the indications for LT. In many circumstances, not just the liver disease itself but factors such as extra-hepatic organ dysfunction or failures necessitate LT. ACLF is a dynamic syndrome that has extremely high short-term mortality. Currently, there is no single approved therapy for ACLF, and LT seems to be the only feasible therapeutic option for selected patients at high risk of mortality. Early identification of ACLF, stratification of patients according to disease severity, aggressive organ support, and etiology-specific treatment approaches have a significant impact on post-transplant outcomes. This review briefly describes the indications, timing, and referral practices for LT in patients with CLD and ACLF.

Psychosocial Assessment and Management-related Issues Among Liver Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Liver transplant cases have been rising and becoming the choice of treatment for many patients with end-stage liver diseases. With an increasing number of qualified treatment centers and facilities, the effectiveness of liver transplants has been observed to increase over the years. But the success of liver transplants and the quality of life post-transplant have been observed to be influenced due to psychiatric comorbidities.

METHOD

We searched for literature using terms for 'Psychosocial factors', 'liver transplant', 'psychiatric disorders', 'treatment outcomes', and related terms, 'AUD/SUD' in three databases: PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. Articles published in English and that provided original data analyses were included while commentaries and review articles were excluded. This review article focuses on an association between various psychiatric disorders/ Substance Use Disorder (SUD)/Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and liver transplant outcomes which indicated the need for psychiatric treatment and its role in improved overall transplant outcomes and enhanced quality of life.

RESULTS

Majority of the studies indicated a negative association between psychiatric disorder, AUD, and SUD with the treatment outcomes post liver transplant. A few studies were found supporting a multidisciplinary approach to handling liver transplant patients for a more effective and improved treatment outcome.

CONCLUSION

The current evidence suggests a need for developing an integrated approach to assessment and management of psychiatric and psychosocial issues related to liver transplant recipients.

Alcohol-associated liver disease: Epidemiology and management

Alcohol is the leading cause of preventable liver morbidity and mortality worldwide, as it is also the most frequent cause of advanced liver disease. Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) covers different phenotypes ranging from steatosis to the development of inflammation (steatohepatitis), fibrosis and ultimately, in a proportion of patients, the development of liver cirrhosis and its associated complications. ALD has a complex pathogenesis that includes the interplay of both genetic and environmental factors, yet the precise mechanisms are largely unknown. Alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) is a severe clinical presentation of ALD, which is characterized by abrupt jaundice and clinical decompensations of liver disease. AH occurs in a percentage of patients with underlying ALD and active alcohol consumption. Currently, there are no approved targeted therapies able to interfere in the pathogenesis of ALD and halt the progression of the disease, therefore alcohol abstinence is the most effective measure to improve prognosis in this patient population. In this regard, alcohol cessation remains the first-line treatment in all stages of alcohol disease. In patients with advanced ALD nonresponding to medical therapy, liver transplantation is the only approach that improves prognosis, and it should be considered in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. In the last years, AH has emerged as a new indication of early liver transplantation in non-responders to medical therapy, with promising results in highly selected patients. In this review, we provide an update on the epidemiology, risk factors, natural history, diagnosis, pathogenesis, and current treatments for ALD, taking into account the importance of assessing and managing alcohol consumption as the etiological factor and the main driver of prognosis in patients with ALD.

Long-term survival after liver transplantation for alcohol-related liver disease in the Nordic countries

OBJECTIVES

Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) is among the most common indications for liver transplantation (LTX) in Europe and North America, with good five-year survival rates post-LTX. Here we evaluated survival up to and beyond 20 years after LTX for patients with ALD compared to a comparison group.

METHODS

Patients with ALD and a comparison group transplanted in the Nordic countries between 1982 and 2020 were included. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Kaplan-Meier curves and predictors of survival were assessed with Cox-regressions.

RESULTS

831 patients with ALD and 2979 patients in the comparison group were included in the study. Patients with ALD were older at the time of LTX (p < .001) and more likely to be male (p < .001). The estimated median follow-up time was 9.1 years for the ALD-group and 11.1 years for the comparison group. 333 (40.1%) patients with ALD and 1010 (33.9%) patients in the comparison group died during follow-up. The overall survival was impaired for patients with ALD compared to the comparison group (p < .001) and was evident for male and female patients, patients transplanted before and after 2005, and observed in all age-groups except patients over 60 years. Age at transplant, waiting time, year of LTX and country of LTX were associated with decreased survival after LTX for patients with ALD.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with ALD have a decreased long-term survival following LTX. This difference was evident in most sub-groups of patients and warrants close follow-up of liver transplanted patients with ALD with focus on risk reduction.

Alcohol-related liver disease and liver transplantation

Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) has become the major cause of liver transplantation (LT) in Korea, and is currently the most common cause of LT in Europe and the United States. Although, ALD is one of the most common indications for LT, it is traditionally not considered as an option for patients with ALD due to organ shortages and concerns about relapse. To select patients with terminal liver disease due to ALD for transplants, most LT centers in the United States and European countries require a 6-month sober period before transplantation. However, Korea has a different social and cultural background than Western countries, and most organ transplants are made from living donors, who account for approximately twice as many procedures as deceased donors. Most LT centers in Korea do not require a specific period of sobriety before transplantation in patients with ALD. As per the literature, 8%–20% of patients resume alcohol consumption 1 year after LT, and this proportion increases to 30%–40% at 5 years post-LT, among which 10%–15% of patients resume heavy drinking. According to previous studies, the risk factors for alcohol relapse after LT are as follows: young age, poor familial and social support, family history of alcohol use disorder, previous history of alcohol-related treatment, shorter abstinence before LT, smoking, psychiatric disorders, irregular follow-up, and unemployment. Recognition of the risk factors, early detection of alcohol consumption after LT, and regular follow-up by a multidisciplinary team are important for improving the short- and long-term outcomes of LT patients with ALD.

Recidivism in Liver Transplant Recipients for Alcohol-related Liver Disease

Liver transplantation (LT) is the only cure for patients with end-stage liver disease, which offers good long-term survival. The long-term issues after LT affecting survival are cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, de novo malignancies, recurrence of original disease and immunological causes. Alcoholic-related liver disease (ALD) is one of the most common indications for LT worldwide including India. LT for ALD is associated with several unique challenges as compared with other etiologies. Long-term survival after LT in patients with ALD is affected by recidivism. Various studies have shown different predictors of relapse; the main predictors of relapse are pretransplant abstinence, psychiatric comorbidities, and lack of social support. Although several risk scores have been proposed, these scores are not validated. Studies with active involvement of psychiatrist have shown lower relapse rates. The relapse prevention strategy for reducing likelihood and severity of relapse after initial cessation of alcohol uses a combination of pharmacotherapy and cognitive behavioral approach (identifying and addressing high-risk situations for relapse).

When demand exceeds supply: Liver transplantation due to alcohol use disorder in Austria

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is associated with a high prevalence rate and causes a significant burden on health systems globally. The most severe condition associated with AUD is end-stage alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD), for which liver transplantation (LTX) is the only curative therapy. However, the determination of key epidemiologic figures of both conditions is limited by several difficulties and challenges. Therefore, the goal of this paper is to discuss different epidemiological models to estimate AUD and ARLD prevalence, and compare the results of these models with LTX data.

Methods

A literature search for epidemiological models estimating the prevalence of AUD and associated secondary diseases was conducted. Identified approaches are discussed and recalculated, applying the newest available data for Austria. The thus estimated numbers were, in a further step, set in relation to the national LTX statistics.

Results

Besides health survey-based estimations and models based on economic data, estimations based on the mortality of ARLD (Jellinek formula) were identified. Depending on the prediction scenario, the calculated rates of prevalence of AUD ranged between 4.1% and 10.1% for the population aged older than 15 years. Furthermore, while the prevalence of secondary diseases due to AUD is high, only a marginal proportion (about 4%) of end-stage ARLD patients receive a new organ.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the prevalence of AUD and associated diseases remain underestimated. Furthermore, a pronounced discrepancy between the number of ARLD deaths and the number of LTXs due to ARLD, and distinct regional differences in the supply of LTXs, were found.

A Review of the Prevalence of Illicit Substance Use in Solid-Organ Transplant Candidates and the Effects of Illicit Substance Use on Solid-Organ Transplant Treatment Outcomes

Solid-organ transplantation is one of the significant advances in the medical field that have improved the quality of life and survival rates of numerous patients with end-organ dysfunction. Substance use is a common condition of individuals who are in need of solid-organ transplantation. The implications of substance use on solid-organ transplants are gaining increasing attention over the past decade. The current review seeks to explore the prevalence rate of illicit substance use among those who receive solid-organ transplantation (pre and post-transplant) and whether illicit substance use before solid-organ transplantation affects the outcome of solid-organ transplants. We searched the Medline database for all the articles available in English on the prevalence of substance use in the context of solid-organ transplant and the effect on outcome measures. We found 21 relevant articles. It appears that substance use is fairly common among solid-organ transplant candidates, with cannabis being the most common substance of abuse. A heterogeneous sample precludes the drawing of a clear-cut conclusion. But it appears that substance use may affect various outcomes of solid-organ transplants. The existing literature may not be sufficient to adequately assess the risk but limited evidence indicates that illicit substance use, particularly cannabis use, may not affect the overall survival following a solid-organ transplant.

Predicting and preventing alcohol relapse in alcohol-related liver disease

BACKGROUND

despite a 450% increase in UK alcohol-related liver disease mortality over the past 30 years, little evidence-based guidance exists regarding preventing recidivism post-liver transplant for alcohol-related liver disease.

METHOD

a systematic literature review was conducted to identify demographic variables predictive of alcohol relapse and effective psychosocial interventions for alcohol-related liver disease patients post-liver transplant.

RESULTS

variables most significantly predictive of alcohol relapse post-transplant were-less than 12 months pre-liver transplant abstinence; patients with children; poor pre-liver transplant psychosomatic evaluation; non-compliance with post-liver transplant treatment plan; and patients with active insurance policies. Structured management was the most effective psychosocial intervention in preventing alcohol relapse.

CONCLUSION

findings should be interpreted cautiously, due to limited and poor-quality evidence. Rigorously designed further research of the psychosocial interventions targeting predictive demographic variables is recommended.

Alcohol and drug use prior to liver transplantation: more common than expected in patients with non-alcoholic liver disease

Objective: Liver transplantation (LT) is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage liver disease, acute liver failure or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients with known alcoholic liver cirrhosis (ALC) are usually assessed by an addiction specialist, but patients with other liver diseases may also exhibit harmful drinking. This study aims to assess the drinking habits in LT-recipients with or without a diagnosis of ALC. Patients and methods: Between April 2012 and December 2015, 190 LT-recipients were interviewed using the Lifetime Drinking History (LDH) and the Addiction Severity Index (ASI). Patients were categorized according to their diagnoses: ALC (group A, n = 39), HCC or hepatitis C (group B, n = 56) or other liver diseases (group C, n = 95). Data were analysed using descriptive statistic methods. Results: Fifteen of 95 patients (15.8%) in group C - a cohort without suspected addiction problems - had either alcohol consumption or binge drinking within the upper quartile of the overall cohort. The aetiology of liver disease in this subgroup included mainly cholestatic and cryptogenic liver disease. Illicit drugs had been used by 35% of all patients. Cannabis and amphetamine were the most common drugs and had the longest duration of regular use. Conclusions: LT candidates without known alcohol or drug use may have a clinically significant consumption of alcohol and previous illicit drug use. Efforts should be put on identification of these patients during LT evaluation. The use of structured questionnaires such as the ASI and the LDH could facilitate detection of alcohol and drug problems.

Alcohol relapse and its predictors after liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is the leading cause of liver transplantation (LT). The magnitude and risk factors of post-LT alcohol relapse are not well described. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate alcohol relapse rate and its predictors after LT.

METHODS

Searches of MEDLINE and SCOPUS identified eligible published studies of alcohol relapse after LT published up to 31 March 2018. Alcohol relapse was defined as any alcohol consumption post-LT, and heavy alcohol relapse was defined as a relapse of alcohol consumption that was associated with a significant harm. Data for the proportion of alcohol relapse was pooled using a meta-analysis for pooling proportion. An odds ratio (OR) of the predictor of alcohol relapse was extracted and pooled using meta-analysis for the pooling risk factor. Data were analyzed using a random effect model if heterogeneity was presented; otherwise, a fixed effect model was applied. The study was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42017052659).

RESULTS

Ninety-two studies with over 8000 cases were recruited for pooling proportion of alcohol relapse. The alcohol relapse rate and heavy alcohol relapse rate after LT during the mean follow-up time of 48.4 ± 24.7 months were 22% (95% confidence interval (CI): 19-25%) and 14% (95%CI: 12-16%). Psychiatric comorbidities (odds ratio (OR) 3.46, 95%CI: 1.87-6.39), pre-transplant abstinence of less than 6 months (OR 2.76, 95%CI: 2.10-3.61), unmarried status (OR 1.84, 95%CI: 1.39-2.43), and smoking (OR 1.72, 95%CI: 1.21-2.46) were associated with alcohol relapse after LT. However, we noticed publication bias of unpublished negative studies and high heterogeneity of results.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-transplant alcohol relapse occurred in about one-fifth of patients who underwent alcohol-related LT. Psychiatric comorbidities represented the strongest predictor of alcohol relapse. Psychiatric comorbidities monitoring and pre-LT alcohol abstinence for at least 6 months may decrease alcohol relapse after LT.

History of Marijuana Use Does Not Affect Outcomes on the Liver Transplant Waitlist

BACKGROUND

Data are limited on marijuana use and its impact on liver transplant (LT) waitlist outcomes. We aimed to assess the risk of waitlist mortality/delisting and likelihood of LT among prior marijuana users and to determine the prevalence and factors associated with marijuana use.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort of adults evaluated for LT over 2 years at a large LT center. Marijuana use was defined by self-report in psychosocial assessment and/or positive urine toxicology. Ongoing marijuana use was not permitted for LT listing during study period.

RESULTS

Eight hundred eighty-four adults were evaluated, and 585 (66%) were listed for LT (median follow-up, 1.4 years; interquartile range, 0.5-2.0). Prevalence of marijuana use was 48%, with 7% being recent users and 41% prior users. Marijuana use had statistically significant association with alcoholic cirrhosis (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.9) and hepatitis C (IRR, 2.1) versus hepatitis B, tobacco use (prior IRR, 1.4; recent IRR, 1.3 vs never), alcohol use (never IRR 0.1; heavy use/abuse IRR 1.2 vs social), and illicit drug use (prior IRR, 2.3; recent, 1.9 vs never). In adjusted competing risk regression, marijuana use was not associated with the probability of LT (prior hazard ratio [HR], 0.9; recent HR, 0.9 vs never) or waitlist mortality/delisting (prior HR, 1.0; recent HR, 1.0 vs never). However, recent illicit drug use was associated with higher risk of death or delisting (HR, 1.8; P = 0.004 vs never).

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike illicit drug use, marijuana use was not associated with worse outcomes on the LT waitlist. Prospective studies are needed to assess ongoing marijuana use on the LT waitlist and post-LT outcomes.

Psychopharmacology in transplantation medicine

Organ transplantation has become a well-established treatment option in patients with end-stage organ diseases. Although quality of life has markedly improved, psychiatric disorders before and after transplantation are more frequent compared to the general population. Psychopharmacological treatment is recommended for almost all mental disorders according to current guidelines, but may pose particular problems in organ transplant patients. Changes in the metabolism and elimination of drugs during organ insufficiency, drug interactions, and overlapping side effects between psychopharmacological and immunosuppressive drugs are challenging problems in clinical management. Furthermore, questions frequently arise concerning the use of psychopharmacological treatment options for sleeping and anxiety disorders. This article reviews psychopharmacology in organ transplant patients, with particular attention to frequent psychiatric disorders observed in the disease course of end-stage organ diseases.

Alcohol or Not: A Review Comparing Initial Mechanisms, Contributing Factors, and Liver Transplantation Outcomes Between Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

Chronic liver diseases take many forms; alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are two common illnesses that potentially lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. It is estimated that a quarter of heavy drinkers develop ALD and the same portion of people without heavy drinking habits have NAFLD. Alcohol intake is regularly used to differentiate NAFLD from ALD; however, diagnosis based on the discrimination threshold may be suboptimal when facing an obese patient with a high level of alcohol exposure. Therefore, understanding the common and/or different mechanism(s) driving each disease is extremely important. The ‘two-hit’ or ‘multi-hit’ hypothesis is used to explain the pathogenesis of both diseases. The ‘first hit’ refers to developing steatosis, the accumulation of fat components in the liver, and the ‘second hits’ are factors leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis, such as metabolic syndromes (e.g., morbid obesity, hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, disturbed circadian cycles, and altered intestinal microbiota) and environmental toxins (e.g., cigarette smoke and pollutants). Heritable factors also affect the probability and disease progression of both ALD and NAFLD. Whereas PNPLA3 and TM6SF2 variants are influential genetic risk factors for the diseases, epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation, post-translational histone modifications, and small non-coding RNA, are of paramount importance. Moreover, considering that both ALD and NAFLD patients may eventually develop end-stage liver disease and require liver transplantation, the authors extensively investigated the worldwide outcomes from original literature for these two aetiologies, and the results showed no obvious differences in post-transplantation survival between them. Precise percentage determination of these two aetiologies contributing to steatohepatitis and its secondary injuries in the future would allow for better strategies for therapeutic and preventive intervention.

Impact of psychiatric comorbidities on outcomes of elderly liver transplant recipients

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the impact of psychiatric comorbidities in liver transplant (LT) recipients aged ≥65 years (elderly) on length of hospital-stay (LOS), death, and a composite outcome of graft loss or death.

METHODS

This retrospective study assessed impact of psychiatric comorbidities in 122 elderly LT recipients and a matched group of 122 LT recipients aged <65 years (younger). Associations were assessed using adjusted multivariable regression models.

RESULTS

Among elderly, median age at LT was 68 years, most were males (62%), white (85%) and 61.7% had a history of any psychiatric diagnosis. Among younger, median age was 55, most were males (67.2%), white (77.5%) and 61.5% had any psychiatric diagnosis. Median LOS was 8 days for both groups. Among elderly, after a median follow-up of 5 years, 25.4% died and 29.5% experienced graft loss or death. History of adjustment disorder, history of depression, past psychiatric medication use, and pain prior to LT were associated with an increased risk of death or the composite graft loss or death. Perioperative use of SSRIs and lack of sleeping medication use were associated with longer LOS. Among aged <65, after median follow-up of 4.7 years, 21 patients (17%) died and 25 (20%) experienced graft loss or death; history of depression, perioperative SSRIs or sleeping medications use was associated with increased mortality and graft-loss or death.

CONCLUSION

Six out of 10 patients among both elderly and younger cohorts had pre-LT psychiatric comorbidities, some of which adversely affected outcomes after LT.

Elderly recipients of liver transplantation: impact of age and psychosocial variables on outcome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

With expanding experience and success of liver transplantation, increasing numbers of elderly candidates await and undergo liver transplantation. There is accumulating evidence that graft survival and mortality does not appear to differ significantly between the young and carefully selected elderly liver transplantation recipients. Although existing evidence suggests that psychosocial factors impact outcomes after liver transplantation in general, no such information is available specifically for elderly (age ≥65 years) liver transplantation recipients. We conducted a broad medical literature review of outcome studies of elderly liver transplantation recipients. In this review article, we summarize the findings and comment on psychosocial variables included in these studies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Ten outcome studies have reported on the impact of age on the liver transplantation outcomes. There is increasing evidence of favorable outcomes in elderly liver transplantation recipients. Few of these studies include measures of quality of life, functional improvement and other psychosocial variables.

SUMMARY

Very limited information is available about the impact of psychosocial factors on outcomes in elderly liver transplantation recipients. This dearth of information represents a critical gap in our knowledge and has implications for optimal candidate selection and outcomes after liver transplantation.

Predictors of Alcohol Relapse Following Liver Transplantation for Alcohol-Induced Liver Failure. Consideration of "A-D" Selection Criteria

Demonstrated abstinence from alcohol for over six months and successful completion of a formal alcohol addictions program are two commonly employed criteria for determining whether an alcoholic patient with liver failure should proceed to liver transplantation.

In this systematic review of the medical literature, we review the justification for these criteria and consider other variables that have also been reported to be of predictive value.

While abstinence from alcohol for over six months is supported by the medical literature, data are more limited regarding the value of formal alcohol addictions program as selection criteria for proceeding towards liver transplantation. Positive family histories of alcoholism, co-inhabitants drinking alcohol in the presence of the patient and concurrent drug dependencies are more robust predictor variables of post-transplant recidivism.

Based on the findings of this review, we propose a simple A–D transplantation selection criteria wherein “A” refers to demonstrated abstention from alcohol for over six months, “B” biology (a negative family history for alcoholism), “C”, co-inhabitants not consuming alcohol in the presence of the patient; and “D”, no concurrent drug dependency.

Risk factors and outcomes associated with alcohol relapse after liver transplantation

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is the second most common indication for liver transplantation (LT) in the United States and Europe. Unlike other indications for LT, transplantation for ALD may be controversial due to the concern for alcohol relapse and non-compliance after LT. However, the overall survival in patients transplanted for ALD is comparable or higher than in patients transplanted for other etiologies of liver disease. While the rate of alcohol use after liver transplantation does not differ among various etiologies of liver disease, alcohol relapse after transplantation for ALD has been associated with complications such as graft rejection, graft loss, recurrent alcoholic cirrhosis and reduced long-term patient survival. Given these potential complications, our review aimed to discuss risk factors associated with alcohol relapse and the efficacy of various interventions attempted to reduce the risk of alcohol relapse. We also describe the impact of alcohol relapse on post-transplant outcomes including graft and patient survival. Overall, alcohol liver disease remains an appropriate indication for liver transplantation, and long-term mortality in this group of patients is primarily attributed to cardiovascular disease or de novo malignancies rather than alcohol related hepatic complications, among those who relapse.

Liver Transplantation for Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcohol-related liver disease is the second most frequent indication for liver transplantation (LT), yet as many as 90% to 95% of patients with alcohol-related end-stage liver disease are never formally evaluated for LT. Furthermore, despite its significance as a cause of chronic liver disease and indication for LT, it has received little attention in recent years for several reasons, including the good posttransplant short-term results, and the lack of specific "drugs" used for this disease. A writing group, endorsed by the International Liver Transplant Society, was convened to write guidelines on Liver Transplantation for Alcoholic Liver Disease to summarize current knowledge and provide answers to controversial and delicate ethical as well as clinical problems. We report here a short version of the guidelines (long version available at www.ilts.org) with the final recommendations graded for level of evidence. The writing group membership is expected to remain active for 5 years, reviewing the guideline annually, and updating the online version when appropriate.

Korean Patients Undergoing Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation for Alcoholic Liver Disease Have Non-Inferior Survival Outcomes than for Hepatitis B Virus: a Real-World Experience without Minimum Abstinence before Transplantation

Few studies have compared outcomes in patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) in Asian countries in which living donor LT (LDLT) is dominant, where HBV is endemic and where there are no strict regulations on pre-transplant abstinence for ALD. This study compared post-LT outcomes of deceased donor LT (DDLT) in patients with ALD and HBV. Data from 220 patients who underwent primary DDLT at Seoul National University Hospital from January 2010 to December 2014, including 107 with HBV and 38 with ALD, were retrospectively analyzed. Seventy-four patients (69.2%) in the HBV group and 30 (78.9%) in the ALD group had United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) status 2A (P = 0.250). There were no significant differences in their 1-year (90.7% vs. 92.1%) and 3-year (82.1% vs. 82.3%) overall survival rates (P = 1.000). Multivariate analysis showed that high serum gamma glutamyltransferase concentration (≥ 70 IU/L) was independently prognostic of 1-year post-LT overall survival. Survival outcomes following DDLT were similar in Korean patients with ALD and HBV, even in the absence of strict pre-transplant abstinence from alcohol as a selection criterion.

Liver Transplantation for Alcohol-Related Liver Disease

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a common indication for liver transplantation. It is a much debated indication for deceased donor liver transplantation due to organ shortage and potential of alcohol relapse after liver transplantation. A six-month abstinence before liver transplantation is required at most centers to decrease chances of alcohol relapse after liver transplantation. However, this rule is not relevant for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis or severely decompensated patients who are unlikely to survive till 6 months. Long-term care of these patients after liver transplantation includes assessment of relapse, smoking, and surveillance of de novo malignancies. Current review discusses role of abstinence, factors affecting alcohol relapse, liver transplantation for alcoholic hepatitis, role of living donor liver transplantation, and long-term care of ALD patients who undergo liver transplantation.

Lower relapse rates with good post-transplant outcome in alcoholic liver disease: Experience from a living donor liver transplant center

INTRODUCTION

Post-transplant relapse is a major factor influencing the long-term outcome in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) patients.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relapse rates following living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in patients with ALD in the Indian context with strong family support.

METHODS

Of 458 patients who underwent LDLT for ALD, 408 were included in the study. Post-transplant relapse was determined by information provided by the patient and/or family by means of outpatient and e-mail questionnaire, supported by clinical/biochemical parameters/liver histopathology.

RESULTS

All except one were males, with a mean age of 46.9 ± 8.5 years. The overall rate of relapse was 9.5 % at 34.7 months (interquartile range (IQR) 15-57.6), lower than that reported in the literature from the West. The relapse rate was higher in patients with a shorter duration of pre-transplant abstinence (17.4 % and 15.4 % for recipients with pre-transplant abstinence of <3 and <6 months, respectively, p < 0.05). The overall survival was 88.5 % at 3 years. Of 39 patients with relapse, 16 (41 %) were occasional drinkers, 14 (35.8 %) were moderate drinkers, and 9 (23 %) were heavy drinkers. All the heavy drinkers presented with features of graft dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Good results can be obtained following LDLT for ALD, with significantly lower relapse rates in our setup as compared to the West.

The Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplantation: A Prospective Study of Medical and Psychosocial Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Psychosocial factors may significantly affect post-transplant outcomes. The Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplantation (SIPAT) was developed as an assessment tool to enhance the pre-transplant psychosocial evaluation.

METHODS

We identified heart, lung, liver, or kidney transplant recipients assessed with the SIPAT pre-transplantation and transplanted between June 1, 2008, and July 31, 2011, at our institution. We analyzed prospectively accumulated psychosocial and medical outcomes at 1 year of follow-up.

RESULTS

217 patients were identified and included in the analysis. The primary outcomes of organ failure and mortality occurred in 12 and 21 patients, respectively, and were not significantly associated with the pre-transplant SIPAT scores. On the other hand, SIPAT scores were significantly correlated with the probability of poor medical and psychosocial outcomes (secondary outcomes). In fact, higher SIPAT scores predicted higher rates of rejection episodes (Spearman ρ = 0.15, 95% 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.02-0.28, p = .023), medical hospitalizations (ρ = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.16-0.41, p < .001), infection rates (p = .020), psychiatric decompensation (p = .005), and support system failure (area under the curve = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.60-0.79, p < .001). The relationship with nonadherence suggested a trend, but no statistical significance was observed (area under the curve = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.50-0.71, p = .058).

CONCLUSIONS

Study outcomes suggest that SIPAT is a promising pre-transplantation assessment tool that helps identify candidate's areas of psychosocial vulnerability and whose scores are associated with both psychosocial and medical outcomes after transplantation.

Recidivism in Liver Transplant Recipients With Alcoholic Liver Disease: Analysis of Demographic, Psychosocial, and Histology Features

OBJECTIVES

Liver transplant for alcoholic liver disease requires identifying potential recipients at risk for recidivism. We sought to identify risk factors for recidivism and survival in recipients of liver transplant with alcoholic liver disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Demographic, psychosocial, and histology features were evaluated as risk factors toward harmful recidivism in 148 recipients of liver transplant with alcoholic liver disease.

RESULTS

Based on the univariate analysis using Cox proportional hazards model, duration of alcohol abstinence 6 months (HR 3.74; P = .011, 95% CI: 1.36-10.3), non-alcohol related criminal history (HR 3.18; P = .032, 95% CI: 1.1-9.15), support from immediate family (HR 0.24; P = .0061, 95% CI: 0.09-0.67), and active smoking at the time of liver transplant (HR 2.74; P = .041, 95% CI: 1-7.53) were identified as significant predictors for recidivism. Older patients had less likelihood of alcohol relapse (HR 0.91; P = .0014, 95% CI: 0.87-0.97) on univariate model. In multivariate model older patients (HR 0.91; P = .004, 95% CI: 0.86-0.97) and patients who have immediate family support (HR 0.27; P = .012, 95% CI: 0.10-0.76) predicated against recidivism. Suggestive features of alcoholic hepatitis on liver explant did not predict recidivism or long-term survival. One-, three-, and five-year patient survival rates estimated by Kaplan-Meier survival model in the recipients that remained abstinent were 95%, 87%, and 80%, compared with 87%, 49%, and 49% for the recipients with recidivism (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Recidivism is associated with earlier death after liver transplant. Older recipients and patients with immediate family support are less likely to have alcohol relapse, and have better long-term survival.

Depression and Anxiety as Risk Factors for Morbidity and Mortality After Organ Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Depression and anxiety are common mental health problems in transplant populations. There is mixed evidence concerning whether they increase morbidity and mortality risks after transplantation. If such associations exist, additional risk reduction strategies may be needed.

METHODS

Four bibliographic databases were searched from 1981 through September 2014 for studies prospectively examining whether depression or anxiety (determined with diagnostic evaluations or standardized symptom scales) affected risk for posttransplant mortality, graft loss, acute graft rejection, chronic rejection, cancer, infection, and rehospitalization.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven studies (10 heart, total n = 1738; 6 liver, n = 1063; 5 kidney, n = 49515; 4 lung, n = 584; 1 pancreas, n = 80; 1 mixed recipient sample, n = 205) were identified. In each, depression and/or anxiety were typically measured before or early after transplantation. Follow-up for outcomes was a median of 5.8 years (range, 0.50-18.0). Depression increased the relative risk (RR) of mortality by 65% (RR, 1.65; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.34-2.05; 20 studies). Meta-regression indicated that risk was stronger in studies that did (vs did not) control for potential confounders (P = .032). Risk was unaffected by type of transplant or other study characteristics. Depression increased death-censored graft loss risk (RR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.21-2.26, 3 studies). Depression was not associated with other morbidities (each morbidity was assessed in 1-4 studies). Anxiety did not significantly increase mortality risk (RR, 1.39; 95% CI, 0.85-2.27, 6 studies) or morbidity risks (assessed in single studies).

CONCLUSIONS

Depression increases risk for posttransplant mortality. Few studies considered morbidities; the depression-graft loss association suggests that linkages with morbidities deserve greater attention. Depression screening and treatment may be warranted, although whether these activities would reduce posttransplant mortality requires study.

Assessing and treating alcohol relapse risk in liver transplantation candidates

In Europe between 30 and 50% of all liver transplantations (LTX) are done within the context of chronic end-stage alcoholic liver disease (ALD). However, post-operatively 20-25% of these patients lapse or relapse into heavy alcohol use. Thus, assessment of alcohol relapse risk before enlisting and therapeutic follow-up during and after LTX is of utmost importance. However, as yet there are enormous differences between European countries and between transplant centers, with regard to the assessment methods and criteria and the implementation of therapeutic follow-up. Only the so-called '6-month abstinence' rule is widely used. However, there are not much scientific data validating its use in predicting relapse. Thus, there is a clear need of a more homogeneous approach, which was the focus of a symposium of the European Federation of Addiction Societies during the 14th conference of the European Society for Biomedical Research on Alcoholism, 2013 (ESBRA), entitled 'Liver transplantation: A European perspective'. In a follow-up on this symposium, the authors aim to sum up the evidence of psychiatric assessment criteria and psychiatric treatment interventions relevant in the context of patient selection and patient follow-up within ALD transplantation procedures. Based upon these findings, we propose elements of a procedure that can serve as a first step toward a model of good practice regarding addiction-specialist input within the pre- and post-transplantation period.

The dilemma of liver transplant allocation for alcoholic patients

Liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease (ALD) has been, and continues to be, a subject of great controversy. Although ALD is one of the most common causes of cirrhosis of the liver and one of the most prominent indications for orthotopic liver transplantation, arguments arise regarding liver transplantation as a suitable treatment for this disease. In many documented studies, the rate of alcoholic recidivism and rates of noncompliance with antirejection regimens have been examined. Many of these studies demonstrate that the rate of recidivism is high and medication compliance is low. Now is a time in which medicine is experiencing an increased need for organ allografts with a profound shortage of suitable matches for patients in need. Therefore, transplanting viable and vital liver allografts into patients with ALD, considering high rates of alcoholic recidivism and noncompliance, is more ethically controversial than ever. It is the responsibility of the medical personnel-including nurses-who sit on ethical advisory boards to distribute an exceptional gift of liver transplants. Also, it is the duty of nurses who are involved with the care of transplant recipients to help the patients assume full respect and treat their liver well. This article discusses the ethical implications and ethical obligations of medical staff when continuing to consider ALD appropriate grounds for liver transplantation.

Review article: depression and the use of antidepressants in patients with chronic liver disease or liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

The scale of depression in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) and those who have received orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is poorly characterised. Clinicians are uncertain of how best to manage depression within these patients.

AIMS

To review the literature evaluating both the prevalence and impact of depression in patients with CLD and post-OLT, and to assess the safety and efficacy of antidepressant use within this context.

METHODS

A PubMed search using the phrases 'chronic liver disease', 'cirrhosis', 'liver transplantation', 'depression', 'antidepressant' and the names of specific causes of liver disease and individual antidepressants.

RESULTS

Over 30% of cirrhotic patients have depressive features, and they experience worse clinical outcomes than nondepressed cirrhotic patients. CLD patients with chronic hepatitis C are particularly prone to depression, partly related to the use of interferon therapy. OLT patients with depression have higher mortality rates than nondepressed patients; appropriate antidepressant use reverses this effect. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are effective and generally safe in both CLD and OLT patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Depression is much more prevalent in CLD or OLT patients than is generally recognised, and it adversely affects clinical outcomes. The reasons for this relationship are complex and multifactorial. Antidepressants are effective in both CLD and post-OLT, although lower doses or a reduced dosing frequency may be required to minimise side effects, e.g. exacerbation of hepatic encephalopathy. Further research is needed to establish optimal management of depression in these patients, including the potential role of nonpharmacological treatments.

Risk factors for alcohol relapse following orthotopic liver transplantation: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Each year, 5000-6000 individuals undergo orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in the United States, and of these, nearly 18% have alcoholic liver disease. Relapse to alcohol occurs in more than 40% of patients with OLT for alcoholic liver disease.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to identify factors that predict relapse to alcohol or medication nonadherence following OLT in patients with alcoholic liver disease and to review what randomized clinical interventions have addressed these factors following OLT. Our hypothesis was that there would be factors before and after OLT that predict relapse to alcohol following OLT, and that these, if targeted, might improve sobriety and associated outcomes of adherence with medications and appointments.

METHODS

We performed a review (focusing on articles published since 2004) with PubMed and MEDLINE searches using the following search terms: liver transplantation, recidivism, alcohol relapse, and predictors of alcohol relapse. We supplemented the online searches with manual reviews of article reference lists and selected relevant articles for further review by author consensus.

RESULTS

In largely white populations, prospective studies document that shorter length of pretransplantation sobriety is a significant predictor of time to first drink and time to binge use. Presence of psychiatric comorbidity, high score on standardized High-risk Alcoholism Relapse Scale, and diagnosis of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition) alcohol dependence are predictive of posttransplantation alcohol relapse. Pretransplantation alcohol use history variables (e.g., family history of alcoholism) reliably discriminate between complete abstainers and those who drink, while medical and psychosocial characteristics at early post-liver transplantation period (e.g., more bodily pain) maximally discriminate patterns of alcohol use. Alcoholic individuals with early-onset, rapidly accelerating moderate use and early-onset, continuously increasing heavy use have more than double the prevalence of steatohepatitis or rejection on biopsy and graft failure and more frequent mortality resulting from recurrent alcoholic liver disease than late-onset (i.e., peak of heaviest drinking at 6y posttransplantation) alcohol users do. Fortunately, pretransplantation screening combined with a structured pretransplantation management program and a 12-step program attendance reduced recidivism. No randomized clinical trials have been performed that target pretransplantation risk factors in individuals with alcoholic liver disease before or after OLT to improve post-OLT outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Recent research findings suggest that screening can reveal individuals who are vulnerable to alcohol relapse and targeted intervention can prevent their relapse to alcohol. Based on existing addiction treatments (e.g., relapse prevention plan construction), randomized clinical trials tailored to post-OLT patients should be conducted to improve their survival and quality of life.

Determination of ethyl glucuronide in hair improves evaluation of long-term alcohol abstention in liver transplant candidates

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Prior to listing patients for Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) an abstention period of 6 months is required. Ethyl glucuronide in the hair is a new reliable marker for the assessment of alcohol consumption. Here, the diagnostic value of determining the ethyl glucuronide concentration in the hair of liver transplant candidates was evaluated.

METHODS

In 63 transplant candidates with alcoholic liver cirrhosis and 25 control patients with cirrhosis of other aetiologies alcohol markers, i.e. hEtG, urine EtG, blood ethanol, methanol and carbohydrate deficient transferrin were determined in parallel to an interview with a psychologist.

RESULTS

A total of 19 (30%) transplant candidates admitted alcohol consumption within the last 6 months, while 39/63 (62%) were positive for at least one alcohol marker. In 52% of the 44 candidates denying alcohol consumption, abstention was disproved by detecting at least one positive alcohol marker, in 83% of cases by a positive hEtG result. In the control patients stating abstention from alcohol all hEtG tests were negative. No impact of renal or liver function on hEtG results was detected. A specificity of 98% and a positive predictive value of 92% were calculated for testing hEtG in proximal hair segment and applying a cut-off of 30 pg/mg.

CONCLUSIONS

In 52% of patients denying alcohol consumption within the last 6 months, alcohol abstention was disproved, in 83% of cases by hEtG testing. Therefore, hEtG is a promising new marker for the evaluation of long-term alcohol abstention in liver transplant candidates.

Substance abuse treatment and its association with relapse to alcohol use after liver transplantation

Many liver transplantation (LT) programs require substance abuse (SA) treatment for candidates with a history of alcohol abuse. However, there are no data indicating that SA treatment prevents post-LT alcohol relapse. We examined 118 adults who underwent LT from May 2002 to February 2011 to explore the relationship between SA treatment and post-LT relapse to any alcohol use. Sixty-one patients (52%) with a history of alcohol abuse or dependence received SA treatment before LT. Relapse to any alcohol use was identified in 40 LT recipients (34%). Patients who received SA treatment before LT did not differ significantly in the rate of post-LT alcohol relapse from patients who did not receive treatment before transplantation(30% versus 39%, P = 0.20). However, patients who received SA treatment both before and after transplantation had significantly lower rates of alcohol relapse (16%) than patients who received no SA treatment (41%) or SA treatment only before LT (45%, P = 0.03). Our findings suggest that LT programs should consider placing more emphasis on the continuation of some type of SA treatment after transplantation. Future research should prospectively examine the optimal timing for SA treatment that will attenuate the risk of alcohol relapse after transplantation.

Liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease among Canadian transplant centres: a national study

BACKGROUND⁄

OBJECTIVE

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a controversial yet established indication for liver transplantation (LT), and there is emerging evidence supporting a survival benefit in selected patients with severe acute alcoholic hepatitis. The aim of the present survey was to describe policies among Canadian transplant centres for patients with ALD.

METHODS

A survey was distributed to the medical directors of all seven liver transplant centres in Canada.

RESULTS

All seven liver transplant programs in Canada participated in the survey. Every centre requires patients to have a minimum of six months of abstinence from alcohol before listing for LT. Completion of a rehabilitation program is only mandatory in one program; the remaining programs do not mandate this if patients have demonstrated prolonged abstinence, and sufficient insight and social supports. No program considers LT for patients with severe acute alcoholic hepatitis, although six of the seven programs are interested in exploring a national policy. Random alcohol checks for waitlisted patients are performed routinely on patients listed for ALD at only one centre; the remaining centres only perform checks if there is clinical suspicion. In the past five years, the mean (± SD) number of patients per centre with graft dysfunction from recidivism was 10±4.36; a mean of 2.5±4.36 patients per centre developed graft failure.

CONCLUSIONS

With minor exceptions, LT policies for subjects with ALD are uniform across Canadian transplant programs. Presently, no centres perform LT for acute alcoholic hepatitis, although there is broad interest in exploring a national policy. Recidivism resulting in graft loss is a rare phenomenon.

Quality of life, depression, and psychosocial characteristics of patients awaiting liver transplants

BACKGROUND

The identification of the psychological issues that impair the quality of life and the adherence to treatment in transplant candidates are important.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the presence of symptoms of depression and the quality of life of liver transplant candidates.

METHODS

One hundred liver transplant candidates underwent a psychological analysis using the following instruments: the short form-36 (SF-36) quality of life questionnaire, the Beck depression inventory (BDI), and Structured Interviews for liver transplant candidates.

RESULTS

Seventy-three (73%) of the patients were males. Interestingly, 63% of the patients were in a domestic partnership. At the time of the evaluation, 55 patients were not working due to illness, 27 patients were actively working, and 11 patients were retired. Importantly, fears related to the transplant (e.g., fear the surgery and of death) were identified in 38% of the patients. The data from this study demonstrated a significant negative correlation between depressive scores (BDI) and seven of the eight areas of quality of life (SF-36), such as functional capacity (r = .317, P = .0013), social aspects (r = -.469, P < .0001), economic aspects (r = -.319, P = .0012), and mental health (r = -.3832, P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

The data indicated that the psychological aspects related to transplants require psychological intervention because they can affect the recuperation process, the quality of life, and the adherence to treatment for potential transplant patients.

[Psychiatric assessment of alcoholic patients on a waiting list for liver transplantation: which prognostic criteria are empirically proven?]

Liver disorders are the most frequent somatic complications of alcoholism. As 10‑20% of alcoholic patients will develop liver cirrhosis, this is the most frequent reason for premature death in alcoholic patients. Liver transplantation is now an accepted therapy for alcoholic liver cirrhosis but psychiatric assessment is usually required for patients entering a waiting list for transplantation. Prognostic criteria are controversially discussed, especially the so-called 6-month rule. Numerous studies and recent meta-analyses have indicated that duration of alcoholism, family history, age, sex, comorbid substance use and psychiatric disorders, noncompliance and social instability are outcome predictors. The 6-month criterion is not well proven but some studies are indicative. Possible therapeutic interventions for alcoholic patients on a waiting list are discussed.

Liver transplant-psychiatric and psychosocial aspects

Liver transplantation is a life saving surgical procedure that is associated with improved longevity and enhanced quality of life. The number of successful liver transplants is growing worldwide. The procedure requires a dedicated and trained team of experts. A psychiatrist plays an important role in such a team. Psychiatric and psychosocial assessment is considered imperative to evaluate the candidate's suitability as a transplant recipient. Many psychiatric disorders may lead to the need for liver transplant, and if kept unchecked can adversely affect outcomes. Psychiatric problems arising in the post-transplant period may also require intervention of the psychiatrist. The donor too needs to be evaluated adequately to assess for psychological fitness for the procedure. This article provides broad overview of the various psychiatric and psychosocial issues pertaining to liver transplantation.

Evaluation and selection of the patient with alcoholic liver disease for liver transplant

Alcoholic liver cirrhosis is the second most common indication for liver transplantation in the United States. Studies have shown that these patients do as well as those transplanted for nonalcoholic liver disease. Recently, transplantation of patients with alcoholic liver disease has come under closer scrutiny following an article in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrating comparable outcomes and survival in patients transplanted for acute alcoholic hepatitis. This article reviews the literature and data on the evaluation and selection of patients with alcoholic cirrhosis for liver transplant, and discusses the most recent indication (once a contraindication), acute alcoholic hepatitis.

Excessive alcohol consumption after liver transplantation impacts on long-term survival, whatever the primary indication

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Beyond 5 years, poorer survival, related to alcohol relapse, is observed in patients with liver transplant for alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). However, alcohol consumption has been significantly understudied in non-ALD transplant recipients. We aimed at analyzing the impact of alcohol consumption on long-term survival irrespective of the indication for transplantation.

METHODS

This observational study included consecutive adult recipients of a primary liver graft between 1991 and 2007 in our hospital, who survived >6 months. Patients without ALD as primary indication, but with a history of excessive alcohol consumption before transplantation, were classified as secondary indication ALD. We studied the impact on survival of excessive consumption of alcohol after transplantation and several other variables.

RESULTS

The 441 patients had mean follow-up of 81.7 months. Among the 281 patients with excessive alcohol consumption before transplantation, 206 had ALD as primary indication. After transplantation, alcohol consumption was reported by 32.3% of the study population, 43.7% in primary indication ALD, and 24.3% in non-ALD patients. Survival was 82% at 5 years and 49% at 10 years for patients with excessive alcohol relapse, compared with 86% and 75%, respectively, for patients without persistent excessive alcohol relapse. By multivariable analysis, the independent risk factors of death were: excessive alcohol relapse, age >51 years, post-transplantation diabetes mellitus, cyclosporine-based immunosuppression, and non-hepatic cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive alcohol consumption has a negative impact on long-term survival after liver transplant, irrespective of the primary indication. Death is mainly due to recurrence of liver disease and non-hepatic cancer.

Screening for head and neck cancer in liver transplant candidates: a review of 11 years of experience at the University of Pittsburgh

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

At our institution, any liver transplant candidate with a recent history of smoking combined with daily use of alcohol prior to a 6-month sobriety period warrants formal evaluation by otolaryngology. Given the significant resource consumption and lack of evidence in support of this strategy, we sought to determine the effectiveness of these guidelines in detecting head and neck cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of clinical database and patient billing records.

METHODS

Under an institutional review board-approved protocol, a search was performed for patients seen at our institution's otolaryngology office from 1999 to 2010. This patient list was cross-matched with the patients evaluated for transplant at the University of Pittsburgh Starzl Transplantation Institute during the same timeframe. A search for the diagnosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNC) among these patients was carried out through both a National Cancer Institute-affiliated clinical research registry and ICD-9 codes from billing records. Otolaryngology attending physicians were also asked to recall detection of HNC upon screening of this patient population.

RESULTS

Of 581 patient evaluations performed by the otolaryngologist for HNC screening prior to liver transplantation from 1999 to 2009, one (0.17% of evaluations) case of HNC was detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the consumption of resources required for this screening strategy and the limited yield, it appears that current screening guidelines are ineffective and need to be reconsidered.

Alcohol and substance use in liver transplant patients

In this article the epidemiology of substance use and substance disorders in the United States and their association with liver disease are reviewed. The relevance of tobacco use and issues of candidacy as it pertains to substance use are discussed. The use of alcohol while on the waitlist and short sobriety are also addressed. The merits of monitoring of patients are discussed, and the outcomes of these patients after liver transplantation are examined. The article concludes with a summary of recommendations for clinicians working with these patients and possible future directions for both clinical care and research.

Liver transplantation for patients with alcoholic liver disease: an open question

End-stage alcoholic liver disease is a recognised indication for liver transplantation but some questions on the matter remain open. It is difficult to quantify alcohol consumption, and a single definition of post-transplant relapse is lacking. Moreover, there are no internationally accepted criteria for the selection of candidates for liver transplantation and the eligibility parameters for these patients are controversial. Additional clinical and psychological evaluations are necessary in this setting, especially to establish the risk of alcohol relapse. Nevertheless, patient and graft survival rates after liver transplantation in alcoholic liver disease are comparable to those after transplant for other aetiologies, alcohol consumption relapse being one of the most important problems in the post-transplant phase. In conclusion, alcohol-related liver disease is a good indication for liver transplantation. The main future goals are to formulate a well-defined pre-transplant approach and a single definition of alcohol relapse and to improve prevention strategies.

Strong predictors for alcohol recidivism after liver transplantation: non-acceptance of the alcohol problem and abstinence of <3 months

OBJECTIVE

Alcohol-toxic liver cirrhosis (ALC) is one of the main indications for liver transplantation (LT). The aim of the study is to define predictors for alcohol recidivism and to identify the outcome and quality of life of such patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From March 2003 to July 2009, 226 patients underwent LT in our centre. In 53% liver cirrhosis was caused by alcohol abuse (sole/cofactor). Outcome and alcohol recidivism were assessed using patients' records, laboratory tests and interviews (patient, family members and family doctor). Furthermore, patients received an SF-36 quality of life and a self-designed questionnaire anonymously.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up after LT was 31 + 23 months. The 5-year survival rate after LT in patients with ALC was significantly better compared to patients with other indications (78 vs. 64%; p = 0.016). Quality of life of both patient groups was comparable. After LT, alcohol recidivism rate was 16%. Patients with an alcohol abstinence of <3 months before LT had a significantly higher (p = 0.012) rate of alcohol recidivism in comparison to those with an abstinence of >3 months. Another predictor for alcohol recidivism was the patients' non-acceptance of having an alcohol problem before LT (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

ALC is a good indication for LT. An alcohol abstinence of <3 months before LT and a non-acceptance of having an alcohol problem are strong predictors for alcohol recidivism after LT.

Long-term management of the liver transplant recipient: pearls for the practicing gastroenterologist

Liver transplantation is becoming more common and patients are surviving longer after transplantation. Special care must be paid to the long-term management of these patients because they are at increased risk for medical problems, malignancies, and adverse effects from immunosuppression. A stable and continuing relationship must be developed between the physician and the patient to optimize the long-term outcomes for these individuals.