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Updated: Jul 19, 2025

Digital Home-Monitoring of Patients after Kidney Transplantation: The MACCS Platform
Published on: April 12, 2021
Shifting perspectives in liver diseases after kidney transplantation
Iva Kosuta1, Ana Ostojic2, Ana Vujaklija Brajkovic3,4
1Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia. ivakosuta@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Liver diseases after kidney transplantation range from mild biochemical abnormalities to severe hepatitis or cirrhosis. The causes are diverse and mainly associated with hepatotropic viruses, drug toxicity and metabolic disorders. Over the past decade, the aetiology of liver disease in kidney recipients has changed significantly. These relates to the use of direct-acting antiviral agents against hepatitis C virus, the increasing availability of vaccination against hepatitis B and a better understanding of drug-induced hepatotoxicity. In addition, the emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic has brought new challenges to kidney recipients. This review aims to provide healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of recent advances in the management of liver complications in kidney recipients and to enable them to make informed decisions regarding the risks and impact of liver disease in this population.
Insights
Liver diseases in kidney transplant patients are evolving due to new treatments and emerging viruses like COVID-19. This review offers updated insights for managing these liver complications effectively.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Hepatology
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- Liver diseases are a significant concern for kidney transplant recipients, ranging from mild issues to severe conditions like hepatitis and cirrhosis.
- Causes include viral infections, drug toxicity, and metabolic disorders, with a notable shift in prevalence over the last decade.
- Recent advancements in treating hepatitis C, hepatitis B vaccination, and understanding drug-induced liver injury have altered the landscape of liver disease in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide healthcare professionals with a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in managing liver complications in kidney transplant recipients.
- To enhance understanding of the evolving aetiology and management strategies for liver disease in this specific patient group.
- To support informed decision-making regarding the risks and impact of liver disease post-kidney transplantation.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes current literature and clinical guidelines on liver diseases in kidney transplant recipients.
- It analyzes changes in the aetiology of liver disease over the past decade.
- The review incorporates the impact of new therapeutic agents and emerging infectious diseases, such as SARS-CoV-2.
Main Results:
- The aetiology of liver disease in kidney recipients has significantly changed, influenced by direct-acting antivirals for hepatitis C and hepatitis B vaccination.
- Improved understanding of drug-induced hepatotoxicity and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic are critical factors.
- Current management strategies are adapting to these evolving trends.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare professionals need updated knowledge to effectively manage liver complications in kidney transplant recipients.
- Informed decision-making requires awareness of the changing causes and new therapeutic options for liver disease in this population.
- Continuous adaptation to viral infections and drug-related toxicities is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Kidney Transplant I: Introduction
Kidney Transplant III: Nursing Management
Kidney Transplant II: Surgical Procedure
Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations

