Metabolic syndrome and liver transplantation: a review and guide to management

Metabolic syndrome is common among liver transplant recipients before and after transplantation. The components of metabolic syndrome are often exacerbated in the post-transplant period by transplant specific factors, such as immunosuppression, and are strong predictors of patient morbidity and mortality. Many aspects of the metabolic syndrome are modifiable. Early recognition, prevention and treatment of post-transplant hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia and diabetes may impact long-term post-transplant survival. Further study into the prevention and management of these issues in the transplant patient are needed.