[Chronic complications in cardiac transplantation. Clinical implications and future strategies]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Transplantation Immunology
• Nephrology

Context:

• Cardiac transplantation is a life-saving procedure, but long-term graft survival is challenged by chronic complications.
• Allograft vasculopathy represents the primary cause of mortality within five years post-transplant.
• Other significant long-term issues include systemic hypertension, nephropathies, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemias, and malignancies.

Purpose:

• To summarize the key characteristics of chronic complications following cardiac transplantation.
• To outline the clinical presentation of these post-transplant conditions.
• To review current and emerging therapeutic strategies for managing these complications.

Summary:

• This manuscript reviews major chronic complications limiting long-term cardiac allograft utility.
• Allograft vasculopathy, systemic hypertension, nephropathies, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemias, and malignancies are discussed.
• The focus is on understanding their presentation and effective management.

Impact:

• Provides a comprehensive overview for clinicians managing cardiac transplant recipients.
• Aims to enhance long-term graft survival and patient quality of life.
• Informs therapeutic decision-making to mitigate risks associated with chronic post-transplant conditions.