Zinc Deficiency and Long-Term Outcome in Cases After Isolated Intestinal Transplantation in Taiwan

Area of Science:

• Transplantation immunology
• Gastroenterology
• Nutritional science

Background:

• The small intestine is vital for dietary zinc absorption.
• Intestinal transplant recipients face a high risk of zinc deficiency due to post-transplant adaptation.
• A Taiwanese intestinal transplant program was established in 2007.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence of zinc deficiency in intestinal transplant recipients.
• To analyze zinc levels and supplementation protocols in patients undergoing intestinal transplantation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 21 isolated intestinal transplants in 20 patients.
• Periodic monitoring of serum zinc levels, with supplementation initiated below 700 ng/mL.
• Inclusion of 12 patients with graft survival exceeding 1 year for detailed zinc deficiency analysis.

Main Results:

• Graft survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 85%, 75%, and 65%, respectively.
• Zinc deficiency was most prevalent between the third (41.7%) and sixth (50%) months post-transplant in grafts surviving over 1 year.
• Over 70% of patients required sustained zinc supplementation for 3 years to maintain near-normal zinc levels.

Conclusions:

• Isolated small bowel transplantation demonstrates promising outcomes.
• Regular zinc monitoring and adequate supplementation are essential components of post-transplant care to prevent zinc deficiency.
• Proactive management of zinc levels can support long-term graft success.