Autoimmune Hepatitis on a Living Liver Donor: An Unexpected Long-Term Complication

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Transplantation Medicine
• Immunology

Background:

• Deceased donor liver transplantation is standard for end-stage liver disease.
• Living donor liver transplantation addresses organ shortages but prioritizes donor safety.
• Long-term donor outcomes require continued investigation.

Observation:

• A middle-aged woman, a prior live liver donor, had no history of liver disease.
• Over two decades after donation, she developed autoimmune hepatitis.

Findings:

• Live liver donation is generally safe, but long-term complications can arise.
• Autoimmune hepatitis can manifest years after liver donation in seemingly healthy individuals.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of long-term health monitoring for live liver donors.
• Elevated liver enzymes in former donors warrant prompt hepatologist evaluation.
• Further research is needed to understand the long-term risks associated with live liver donation.