Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Trans-vivo Delayed Type Hypersensitivity Assay for Antigen Specific Regulation
Published on: May 2, 2013
Tacrolimus-related cerebral microbleeds after lung transplantation
L Mechtouff1, F Piegay2, J Traclet3
1Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Pierre Wertheimer, 59 Boulevard Pinel, 69677 Bron, France.
Abstract:
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome is a well-known complication of treatment by tacrolimus. We report 2 cases of lung transplant recipients treated with tacrolimus who developed cerebral microbleeds on T2∗-weighted sequences in the acute setting of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Cerebral microbleeds may be a marker of tacrolimus-induced vasculopathy that may be detected earlier by neuropsychological and magnetic resonance imaging monitoring in transplant recipients treated with tacrolimus.
Insights
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) can occur with tacrolimus treatment. In lung transplant recipients, cerebral microbleeds on MRI may signal early tacrolimus-induced vasculopathy, aiding timely intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Transplant Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a recognized complication of tacrolimus therapy.
- Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant commonly used in organ transplant recipients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between tacrolimus treatment and cerebral microbleeds in lung transplant recipients with PRES.
- To explore cerebral microbleeds as an early marker for tacrolimus-induced vasculopathy.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two lung transplant recipients.
- Neuroimaging using T2∗-weighted sequences to detect cerebral microbleeds.
- Clinical monitoring for PRES.
Main Results:
- Both patients developed PRES while on tacrolimus therapy.
- Cerebral microbleeds were identified on T2∗-weighted MRI sequences in the acute setting of PRES.
- These findings suggest a potential link between tacrolimus, PRES, and cerebral microhemorrhages.
Conclusions:
- Cerebral microbleeds may indicate tacrolimus-induced vasculopathy in transplant recipients.
- Neuropsychological and MRI monitoring could facilitate early detection of this complication.
- This highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring in patients on tacrolimus.
