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Hepatitis C infection in the transplant recipient
N A Terrault1, T L Wright, B J Pereira
1University of California, San Francisco, USA.
Infectious Disease Clinics of North America
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) significantly impacts liver transplant recipients, with recurrence nearly universal. While short-term survival is unaffected, long-term outcomes and disease mechanisms require further study.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Transplant Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a growing concern in organ transplantation.
- It is a primary cause of end-stage liver disease and a common reason for liver transplant referral.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role and impact of HCV in various transplant settings.
- To explore the natural history, pathogenesis, and management of HCV in transplant recipients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on HCV in liver, kidney, heart, lung, and bone marrow transplant recipients.
- Analysis of existing data on post-transplant HCV infection, recurrence, and survival.
Main Results:
- Recurrent HCV infection is nearly universal in liver transplant recipients with pre-transplant viremia.
- HCV infection post-transplant is linked to increased liver disease risk but not short-term survival.
- Data on non-liver transplant recipients and long-term outcomes remain limited.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed on long-term HCV effects and pathogenesis post-transplant.
- Understanding viral and host factors is crucial for improved patient management.
- Organ allocation policies for HCV-positive donors require careful consideration, especially for kidney recipients.