Summary of the British Transplantation Society UK Guidelines for Hepatitis E and Solid Organ Transplantation

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Transplantation Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Increasing incidence of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 (G3) infections in developed countries.
• HEV G3 poses a significant risk for solid organ transplant recipients due to potential persistence and progression to chronic hepatitis and fibrosis.
• Need for clear clinical guidance on diagnosis, management, and prevention of HEV in immunosuppressed populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the British Transplantation Society (BTS) Guidelines for 'Hepatitis E and Solid Organ Transplantation'.
• To inform clinicians and patients about HEV, enhance recognition of persistent infections, and guide management strategies.
• To review evidence on diagnosis, management, and prevention of persistent HEV in solid organ transplant recipients.

Main Methods:

• Development of clinical guidelines by the British Transplantation Society (BTS).
• Utilized the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) system for evidence and recommendations.
• Comprehensive review of existing evidence on HEV diagnosis, management, and prevention in transplant recipients.

Main Results:

• Published guidelines in June 2017, accessible on the BTS website.
• Provides specific recommendations based on GRADE assessment of evidence strength.
• Summarizes key aspects of HEV and transplantation, including recommendations for clinical practice.

Conclusions:

• The BTS guidelines offer crucial, evidence-based recommendations for managing persistent Hepatitis E infection in solid organ transplant recipients.
• Emphasizes the importance of early recognition and appropriate management to prevent severe liver complications.
• Recommends consulting the full guideline document for detailed information and evidence base.