The dilemma of alcohol use by potential living liver donors

Previous and current alcohol use by potential living liver donors presents ethical challenges for donor selection committees. Discussing these challenges, we offer guidelines for selection and management of these individuals. Donor safety and welfare should be the primary concern, thus relapse potential during the postdonation period for those with a history of alcohol dependence or abuse is of importance, especially because of the potentially severe consequences of mixing pain relievers (eg, acetaminophen) and alcohol during liver regeneration. Psychosocial and chemical dependency evaluations are critical for potential living donors as well as recipients.