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Palaniyappan N, Peach E, Pearce F, Dhaliwal A, Campos-Varela I, Cant MR, Dopazo C, Trotter J, Divani-Patel S, Hatta AAZ, Hopkins L, Testa G, Bilbao A, Kasmani Z, Faloon S, Mirza DF, Klintmalm GB, Bilbao I, Asrani SK, Rajoriya N, Aravinthan AD. Long-term outcomes (beyond 5 years) of liver transplant recipients-A transatlantic multicenter study. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:170-181. [PMID: 37589505 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
The long-term (>5 y) outcomes following liver transplantation (LT) have not been extensively reported. The aim was to evaluate outcomes of LT recipients who have survived the first 5 years. A multicenter retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 3 high volume LT centers (Dallas-USA, Birmingham-UK, and Barcelona-Spain) was undertaken. All adult patients, who underwent LT since the inception of the program to December 31, 2010, and survived at least 5 years since their LT were included. Patient survival was the primary outcome. A total of 3682 patients who survived at least 5 years following LT (long-term survivors) were included. Overall, median age at LT was 52 years (IQR 44-58); 53.1% were males; and 84.6% were Caucasians. A total of 49.4% (n=1820) died during a follow-up period of 36,828 person-years (mean follow-up 10 y). A total of 80.2% (n=1460) of all deaths were premature deaths. Age-standardized all-cause mortality as compared to general population was 3 times higher for males and 5 times higher for females. On adjusted analysis, besides older recipients and older donors, predictors of long-term mortality were malignancy, cardiovascular disease, and dialysis. Implementation of strategies such as noninvasive cancer screening, minimizing immunosuppression, and intensive primary/secondary cardiovascular prevention could further improve survival.
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O’Leary JG, Farris AB, Gebel HM, Asrani SK, Askar M, Garcia V, Snipes GJ, Lo DJ, Knechtle SJ, Klintmalm GB, Demetris AJ. Detailed Analysis of Simultaneous Renal and Liver Allografts in the Presence of DSA. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1500. [PMID: 37456590 PMCID: PMC10348731 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver allografts protect renal allografts from the same donor from some, but not all, preformed donor specific alloantibodies (DSA). However, the precise mechanisms of protection and the potential for more subtle alterations/injuries within the grafts resulting from DSA interactions require further study. Methods We reevaluated allograft biopsies from simultaneous liver-kidney transplant recipients who had both allografts biopsied within 60 d of one another and within 30 d of DSA being positive in serum (positive: mean florescence intensity ≥5000). Routine histology, C4d staining, and specialized immunohistochemistry for Kupffer cells (KCs; CD163) and a C4d receptor immunoglobulin-like transcript-4 were carried out in 4 patients with 6 paired biopsies. Results Overt antibody-mediated rejection was found in 3 of 4 renal and liver allografts. One patient had biopsy-confirmed renal and liver allograft antibody-mediated rejection despite serum clearance of DSA. All biopsies showed KC hypertrophy (minimal: 1; mild: 2; moderate: 1; severe: 2) and cytoplasmic C4d KC staining was easily detected in 2 biopsies from 2 patients; minimal and negative in 2 biopsies each. Implications of which are discussed. Control 1-y protocol liver allograft biopsies from DSA- recipients showed neither KC hypertrophy nor KC C4d staining (n = 6). Conclusions Partial renal allograft protection by a liver allograft from the same donor may be partially mediated by phagocytosis/elimination of antibody and complement split products by KCs, as shown decades ago in controlled sensitized experimental animal experiments.
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Tran BV, Moris D, Markovic D, Zaribafzadeh H, Henao R, Lai Q, Florman SS, Tabrizian P, Haydel B, Ruiz RM, Klintmalm GB, Lee DD, Taner CB, Hoteit M, Levine MH, Cillo U, Vitale A, Verna EC, Halazun KJ, Tevar AD, Humar A, Chapman WC, Vachharajani N, Aucejo F, Lerut J, Ciccarelli O, Nguyen MH, Melcher ML, Viveiros A, Schaefer B, Hoppe-Lotichius M, Mittler J, Nydam TL, Markmann JF, Rossi M, Mobley C, Ghobrial M, Langnas AN, Carney CA, Berumen J, Schnickel GT, Sudan DL, Hong JC, Rana A, Jones CM, Fishbein TM, Busuttil RW, Barbas AS, Agopian VG. Development and validation of a REcurrent Liver cAncer Prediction ScorE (RELAPSE) following liver transplantation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: Analysis of the US Multicenter HCC Transplant Consortium. Liver Transpl 2023; 29:683-697. [PMID: 37029083 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
HCC recurrence following liver transplantation (LT) is highly morbid and occurs despite strict patient selection criteria. Individualized prediction of post-LT HCC recurrence risk remains an important need. Clinico-radiologic and pathologic data of 4981 patients with HCC undergoing LT from the US Multicenter HCC Transplant Consortium (UMHTC) were analyzed to develop a REcurrent Liver cAncer Prediction ScorE (RELAPSE). Multivariable Fine and Gray competing risk analysis and machine learning algorithms (Random Survival Forest and Classification and Regression Tree models) identified variables to model HCC recurrence. RELAPSE was externally validated in 1160 HCC LT recipients from the European Hepatocellular Cancer Liver Transplant study group. Of 4981 UMHTC patients with HCC undergoing LT, 71.9% were within Milan criteria, 16.1% were initially beyond Milan criteria with 9.4% downstaged before LT, and 12.0% had incidental HCC on explant pathology. Overall and recurrence-free survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 89.7%, 78.6%, and 69.8% and 86.8%, 74.9%, and 66.7%, respectively, with a 5-year incidence of HCC recurrence of 12.5% (median 16 months) and non-HCC mortality of 20.8%. A multivariable model identified maximum alpha-fetoprotein (HR = 1.35 per-log SD, 95% CI,1.22-1.50, p < 0.001), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (HR = 1.16 per-log SD, 95% CI,1.04-1.28, p < 0.006), pathologic maximum tumor diameter (HR = 1.53 per-log SD, 95% CI, 1.35-1.73, p < 0.001), microvascular (HR = 2.37, 95%-CI, 1.87-2.99, p < 0.001) and macrovascular (HR = 3.38, 95% CI, 2.41-4.75, p < 0.001) invasion, and tumor differentiation (moderate HR = 1.75, 95% CI, 1.29-2.37, p < 0.001; poor HR = 2.62, 95% CI, 1.54-3.32, p < 0.001) as independent variables predicting post-LT HCC recurrence (C-statistic = 0.78). Machine learning algorithms incorporating additional covariates improved prediction of recurrence (Random Survival Forest C-statistic = 0.81). Despite significant differences in European Hepatocellular Cancer Liver Transplant recipient radiologic, treatment, and pathologic characteristics, external validation of RELAPSE demonstrated consistent 2- and 5-year recurrence risk discrimination (AUCs 0.77 and 0.75, respectively). We developed and externally validated a RELAPSE score that accurately discriminates post-LT HCC recurrence risk and may allow for individualized post-LT surveillance, immunosuppression modification, and selection of high-risk patients for adjuvant therapies.
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Hannon VN, Tinguely P, McKenna GJ, Brustia R, Kaldas FM, Scatton O, Spiro M, Raptis DA, Busuttil RW, Klintmalm GB. New ERAS in liver transplantation - Past, present, and next steps. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14625. [PMID: 35238415 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
There are parallels between the history of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) and liver transplantation. Both have been established and advanced by innovative individuals, often going against perceived wisdom and convention. Liver transplantation has traditionally been considered too complex for ERAS pathways, despite a small number of trials showing them to be both safe and of benefit. To date, there are very few randomized controlled trials and cohort studies publishing outcomes on liver transplant patients enrolled in comprehensive ERAS pathways. To progress our field, the 2022 International Liver Transplantation Society's Consensus Conference has created expert panels to analyze the evidence in 32 domains of the liver transplantation pathway using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach to generate expert recommendations. These recommendations will be voted on by the international community to gain consensus using the Danish model, and create the ERAS4OLT.org Enhanced Recovery after Liver Transplantation Pathway.
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Qian T, Fujiwara N, Koneru B, Ono A, Kubota N, Jajoriya AK, Tung MG, Crouchet E, Song WM, Marquez CA, Panda G, Hoshida A, Raman I, Li QZ, Lewis C, Yopp A, Rich NE, Singal AG, Nakagawa S, Goossens N, Higashi T, Koh AP, Bian CB, Hoshida H, Tabrizian P, Gunasekaran G, Florman S, Schwarz ME, Hiotis SP, Nakahara T, Aikata H, Murakami E, Beppu T, Baba H, Warren A, Bhatia S, Kobayashi M, Kumada H, Fobar AJ, Parikh ND, Marrero JA, Rwema SH, Nair V, Patel M, Kim-Schulze S, Corey K, O’Leary JG, Klintmalm GB, Thomas DL, Dibas M, Rodriguez G, Zhang B, Friedman SL, Baumert TF, Fuchs BC, Chayama K, Zhu S, Chung RT, Hoshida Y. Molecular Signature Predictive of Long-Term Liver Fibrosis Progression to Inform Antifibrotic Drug Development. Gastroenterology 2022; 162:1210-1225. [PMID: 34951993 PMCID: PMC8934284 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.12.250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS There is a major unmet need to assess the prognostic impact of antifibrotics in clinical trials because of the slow rate of liver fibrosis progression. We aimed to develop a surrogate biomarker to predict future fibrosis progression. METHODS A fibrosis progression signature (FPS) was defined to predict fibrosis progression within 5 years in patients with hepatitis C virus and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with no to minimal fibrosis at baseline (n = 421) and was validated in an independent NAFLD cohort (n = 78). The FPS was used to assess response to 13 candidate antifibrotics in organotypic ex vivo cultures of clinical fibrotic liver tissues (n = 78) and cenicriviroc in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis enrolled in a clinical trial (n = 19, NCT02217475). A serum protein-based surrogate FPS was developed and tested in a cohort of compensated cirrhosis patients (n = 122). RESULTS A 20-gene FPS was defined and validated in an independent NAFLD cohort (adjusted odds ratio, 10.93; area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.86). Among computationally inferred fibrosis-driving FPS genes, BCL2 was confirmed as a potential pharmacologic target using clinical liver tissues. Systematic ex vivo evaluation of 13 candidate antifibrotics identified rational combination therapies based on epigallocatechin gallate, which were validated for enhanced antifibrotic effect in ex vivo culture of clinical liver tissues. In patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis treated with cenicriviroc, FPS modulation was associated with 1-year fibrosis improvement accompanied by suppression of the E2F pathway. Induction of the PPARα pathway was absent in patients without fibrosis improvement, suggesting a benefit of combining PPARα agonism to improve the antifibrotic efficacy of cenicriviroc. A 7-protein serum protein-based surrogate FPS was associated with the development of decompensation in cirrhosis patients. CONCLUSION The FPS predicts long-term fibrosis progression in an etiology-agnostic manner, which can inform antifibrotic drug development.
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Eng NAM, Arjunan V, Prabhakar V, Mannalithara A, Ghaziani T, Ahmed A, Kwo P, Nguyen M, Melcher ML, Busuttil RW, Florman SS, Haydel B, Ruiz RM, Klintmalm GB, Lee DD, Taner CB, Hoteit MA, Verna EC, Halazun KJ, Tevar AD, Humar A, Chapman WC, Vachharajani N, Aucejo F, Nydam TL, Markmann JF, Mobley C, Ghobrial M, Langnas AN, Carney CA, Berumen J, Schnickel GT, Sudan DL, Hong JC, Rana A, Jones CM, Fishbein TM, Agopian V, Dhanasekaran R. Posttransplant Outcomes in Older Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Are Driven by Non-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Factors. Liver Transpl 2021; 27:684-698. [PMID: 33306254 PMCID: PMC8140549 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is growing in the United States, especially among the elderly. Older patients are increasingly receiving transplants as a result of HCC, but the impact of advancing age on long-term posttransplant outcomes is not clear. To study this, we used data from the US Multicenter HCC Transplant Consortium of 4980 patients. We divided the patients into 4 groups by age at transplantation: 18 to 64 years (n = 4001), 65 to 69 years (n = 683), 70 to 74 years (n = 252), and ≥75 years (n = 44). There were no differences in HCC tumor stage, type of bridging locoregional therapy, or explant residual tumor between the groups. Older age was confirmed to be an independent and significant predictor of overall survival even after adjusting for demographic, etiologic, and cancer-related factors on multivariable analysis. A dose-response effect of age on survival was observed, with every 5-year increase in age older than 50 years resulting in an absolute increase of 8.3% in the mortality rate. Competing risk analysis revealed that older patients experienced higher rates of non-HCC-related mortality (P = 0.004), and not HCC-related death (P = 0.24). To delineate the precise cause of death, we further analyzed a single-center cohort of patients who received a transplant as a result of HCC (n = 302). Patients older than 65 years had a higher incidence of de novo cancer (18.1% versus 7.6%; P = 0.006) after transplantation and higher overall cancer-related mortality (14.3% versus 6.6%; P = 0.03). Even carefully selected elderly patients with HCC have significantly worse posttransplant survival rates, which are mostly driven by non-HCC-related causes. Minimizing immunosuppression and closer surveillance for de novo cancers can potentially improve the outcomes in elderly patients who received a transplant as a result of HCC.
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Agopian VG, Markovic D, Klintmalm GB, Saracino G, Chapman WC, Vachharajani N, Florman SS, Tabrizian P, Haydel B, Nasralla D, Friend PJ, Boteon YL, Ploeg R, Harlander-Locke MP, Xia V, DiNorcia J, Kaldas FM, Yersiz H, Farmer DG, Busuttil RW. Multicenter validation of the liver graft assessment following transplantation (L-GrAFT) score for assessment of early allograft dysfunction. J Hepatol 2021; 74:881-892. [PMID: 32976864 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Early allograft dysfunction (EAD) following liver transplantation (LT) negatively impacts graft and patient outcomes. Previously we reported that the liver graft assessment following transplantation (L-GrAFT7) risk score was superior to binary EAD or the model for early allograft function (MEAF) score for estimating 3-month graft failure-free survival in a single-center derivation cohort. Herein, we sought to externally validate L-GrAFT7, and compare its prognostic performance to EAD and MEAF. METHODS Accuracies of L-GrAFT7, EAD, and MEAF were compared in a 3-center US validation cohort (n = 3,201), and a Consortium for Organ Preservation in Europe (COPE) normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) trial cohort (n = 222); characteristics were compared to assess generalizability. RESULTS Compared to the derivation cohort, patients in the validation and NMP trial cohort had lower recipient median MELD scores; were less likely to require pretransplant hospitalization, renal replacement therapy or mechanical ventilation; and had superior 1-year overall (90% and 95% vs. 84%) and graft failure-free (88% and 93% vs. 81%) survival, with a lower incidence of 3-month graft failure (7.4% and 4.0% vs. 11.1%; p <0.001 for all comparisons). Despite significant differences in cohort characteristics, L-GrAFT7 maintained an excellent validation AUROC of 0.78, significantly superior to binary EAD (AUROC 0.68, p = 0.001) and MEAF scores (AUROC 0.72, p <0.001). In post hoc analysis of the COPE NMP trial, the highest tertile of L-GrAFT7 was significantly associated with time to liver allograft (hazard ratio [HR] 2.17, p = 0.016), Clavien ≥IIIB (HR 2.60, p = 0.034) and ≥IVa (HR 4.99, p = 0.011) complications; post-LT length of hospitalization (p = 0.002); and renal replacement therapy (odds ratio 3.62, p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS We have validated the L-GrAFT7 risk score as a generalizable, highly accurate, individualized risk assessment of 3-month liver allograft failure that is superior to existing scores. L-GrAFT7 may standardize grading of early hepatic allograft function and serve as a clinical endpoint in translational studies (www.lgraft.com). LAY SUMMARY Early allograft dysfunction negatively affects outcomes following liver transplantation. In independent multicenter US and European cohorts totaling 3,423 patients undergoing liver transplantation, the liver graft assessment following transplantation (L-GrAFT) risk score is validated as a superior measure of early allograft function that accurately discriminates 3-month graft failure-free survival and post-liver transplantation complications.
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O'Leary JG, Philippe A, Freeman R, Heidecke H, Jennings LW, Catar R, Klintmalm GB, Dragun D. Non-HLA Autoantibodies at 1 Year Negatively Affect 5-Year Native Renal Function in Liver Transplant Recipients. Transplant Proc 2021; 53:1019-1024. [PMID: 33579550 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2021.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiotensin II type-1 receptor (AT1R) and endothelin-1 type A receptor (ETAR) autoantibodies, in addition to allograft injury, can bind native endothelial cells and cause vascular vasoconstriction and fibrosis progression in nontransplanted organs. Therefore, we investigated long-term native renal function in liver transplant (LT) recipients with and without anti-AT1R-Abs and/or anti-ETAR-Abs present in serum. METHODS Primary LT recipients at our single center from January 2000 to April 2009 had their prospectively collected pre-LT (1269 patients) and year 1 post-LT (795 patients) serum tested retrospectively for anti-AT1R-Abs and/or anti-ETAR-Abs. Anti-AT1R-Abs and anti-ETAR-Abs testing was accomplished with a standardized solid phase assay in which >10 U was considered positive. RESULTS Pretransplant anti-AT1R-Abs and/or anti-ETAR-Abs did not change the median delta creatinine from pretransplant to 1 year post-transplant. In multivariable analysis controlling for diabetes (DM) and calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) use, anti-AT1R-Abs and/or anti-ETAR-Abs at 1-year remained statistically significantly associated with a decline in GFR (measured by Modification of Diet in Renal Disease-6) from years 1-5 post-LT (P = .04). In diabetic patients the association with a decline in renal function was more pronounced with (-9.29 mL/min) vs without (-2.28 mL/min) anti-AT1R-Abs and/or anti-ETAR-Abs at year 1, respectively (P = .004). CONCLUSION At 1-year post-LT, the autoantibodies anti-AT1R-Abs and/or anti-ETAR-Abs are associated in multivariable analysis with an increased risk of native renal function decline especially in diabetic patients.
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Kardashian A, Florman SS, Haydel B, Ruiz RM, Klintmalm GB, Lee DD, Taner CB, Aucejo F, Tevar AD, Humar A, Verna EC, Halazun KJ, Chapman WC, Vachharajani N, Hoteit M, Levine MH, Nguyen MH, Melcher ML, Langnas AN, Carney CA, Mobley C, Ghobrial M, Amundsen B, Markmann JF, Sudan DL, Jones CM, Berumen J, Hemming AW, Hong JC, Kim J, Zimmerman MA, Nydam TL, Rana A, Kueht ML, Fishbein TM, Markovic D, Busuttil RW, Agopian VG. Liver Transplantation Outcomes in a U.S. Multicenter Cohort of 789 Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Presenting Beyond Milan Criteria. Hepatology 2020; 72:2014-2028. [PMID: 32124453 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network recently approved liver transplant (LT) prioritization for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) beyond Milan Criteria (MC) who are down-staged (DS) with locoregional therapy (LRT). We evaluated post-LT outcomes, predictors of down-staging, and the impact of LRT in patients with beyond-MC HCC from the U.S. Multicenter HCC Transplant Consortium (20 centers, 2002-2013). APPROACH AND RESULTS Clinicopathologic characteristics, overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and HCC recurrence (HCC-R) were compared between patients within MC (n = 3,570) and beyond MC (n = 789) who were down-staged (DS, n = 465), treated with LRT and not down-staged (LRT-NoDS, n = 242), or untreated (NoLRT-NoDS, n = 82). Five-year post-LT OS and RFS was higher in MC (71.3% and 68.2%) compared with DS (64.3% and 59.5%) and was lowest in NoDS (n = 324; 60.2% and 53.8%; overall P < 0.001). DS patients had superior RFS (60% vs. 54%, P = 0.043) and lower 5-year HCC-R (18% vs. 32%, P < 0.001) compared with NoDS, with further stratification by maximum radiologic tumor diameter (5-year HCC-R of 15.5% in DS/<5 cm and 39.1% in NoDS/>5 cm, P < 0.001). Multivariate predictors of down-staging included alpha-fetoprotein response to LRT, pathologic tumor number and size, and wait time >12 months. LRT-NoDS had greater HCC-R compared with NoLRT-NoDS (34.1% vs. 26.1%, P < 0.001), even after controlling for clinicopathologic variables (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33, P < 0.001) and inverse probability of treatment-weighted propensity matching (HR = 1.82, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In LT recipients with HCC presenting beyond MC, successful down-staging is predicted by wait time, alpha-fetoprotein response to LRT, and tumor burden and results in excellent post-LT outcomes, justifying expansion of LT criteria. In LRT-NoDS patients, higher HCC-R compared with NoLRT-NoDS cannot be explained by clinicopathologic differences, suggesting a potentially aggravating role of LRT in patients with poor tumor biology that warrants further investigation.
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Hasan MM, Wang Y, Blaji U, Gu J, Nattamai D, Nyarige V, Thompson-Snipes L, Klintmalm GB, O’Leary JG, Wang J, Joo H, Oh S. Critical roles of TIGIT+ human regulatory B cells in the suppression of antibody-mediated allograft rejection. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.204.supp.87.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
TIGIT (T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains) is a co-inhibitory receptor, highly expressed by Tregs, and contributes to the suppressive function of Tregs by limiting pro-inflammatory Th1 and Th17 cell responses. Herein, we report that subsets of human regulatory B cells (Bregs) express surface TIGIT and can thus play a critical role in immune regulation. Using data from human B cell surface arrays and RNA-seq, we identified two major TIGIT+ human Bregs subsets, exhibiting CD24hiCD27+CD39hiIgD+IgMhiCD1chi marginal zone (MZ)-like and CD24hiCD27+CD39+IgD−IgM+CD1c+ memory Bregs. We further demonstrated that TIGIT+ Bregs were also capable of suppressing immune responses by their ability to express not only IL-10 and PD-L1, but also granzyme B and TGFb1. In addition, TIGIT+ Bregs can also suppress immune responses by altering dendritic cell functions. In line with these observations, liver allograft recipients with donor-specific alloantibody (DSA) had significantly lower numbers of TIGIT+ Bregs than those without DSA. Moreover, the frequency of TIGIT+ Bregs correlated with that of CD4+CD25+CD127lo Tregs, while it inversely correlated with the frequency of follicular helper T cells. We thus concluded that TIGIT+ Bregs play critical roles in immune regulation in liver allograft recipients.
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Shaked A, DesMarais MR, Kopetskie H, Feng S, Punch JD, Levitsky J, Reyes J, Klintmalm GB, Demetris AJ, Burrell BE, Priore A, Bridges ND, Sayre PH. Outcomes of immunosuppression minimization and withdrawal early after liver transplantation. Am J Transplant 2019; 19:1397-1409. [PMID: 30506630 PMCID: PMC6482056 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The Immune Tolerance Network ITN030ST A-WISH assessed immunosuppression withdrawal in liver transplant recipients with hepatitis C or nonimmune nonviral liver disease. Of 275 recipients enrolled before transplantation, 95 were randomly assigned 4:1 to withdrawal (n = 77) or maintenance (n = 18) 1- to 2-years posttransplant. Randomization eligibility criteria included stable immunosuppression monotherapy; adequate liver and kidney function; ≤Stage 2 Ishak fibrosis; and absence of rejection on biopsy. Immunosuppression withdrawal followed an 8-step reduction algorithm with ≥8 weeks per level. Fifty-two of 77 subjects (67.5%) reduced to ≤50% of baseline dose, and 10 of 77 (13.0%) discontinued all immunosuppression for ≥1 year. Acute rejection and/or abnormal liver tests were treated with increased immunosuppression; 5 of 32 rejection episodes required a methylprednisolone bolus. The composite end point (death or graft loss; grade 4 secondary malignancy or opportunistic infection; Ishak stage ≥3; or >25% decrease in glomerular filtration rate within 24 months of randomization) occurred in 12 of 66 (18%) and 4 of 13 (31%) subjects in the withdrawal and maintenance groups. Early immunosuppression minimization is feasible in selected liver recipients, while complete withdrawal is successful in only a small proportion. The composite end point comparison was inconclusive for noninferiority of the withdrawal to the maintenance group.
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Klintmalm GB, Kaplan B, Kirk AD. FDA jeopardizes the lives of lung transplant recipients and in the process severely increases the cost to develop new immunosuppression. Am J Transplant 2019; 19:971-972. [PMID: 30552744 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Leal-Leyte P, McKenna GJ, Ruiz RM, Anthony TL, Saracino G, Testa G, Klintmalm GB, T W Kim P. Eversion Bile Duct Anastomosis: A Safe Alternative for Bile Duct Size Discrepancy in Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation. Liver Transpl 2018; 24:1011-1018. [PMID: 29637692 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Bile duct size discrepancy in liver transplantation may increase the risk of biliary complications (BCs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and outcomes of the eversion bile duct anastomosis technique in deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT) with duct-to-duct anastomosis. A total of 210 patients who received a DDLT with duct-to-duct anastomosis from 2012 to 2017 were divided into 2 groups: those who had eversion bile duct anastomosis (n = 70) and those who had standard bile duct anastomosis (n = 140). BC rates were compared between the 2 groups. There was no difference in the cumulative incidence of biliary strictures (P = 0.20) and leaks (P = 0.17) between the 2 groups. The BC rate in the eversion group was 14.3% and 11.4% in the standard anastomosis group. All the BCs in the eversion group were managed with endoscopic stenting. A severe size mismatch (≥3:1 ratio) was associated with a significantly higher incidence of biliary strictures (44.4%) compared with a 2:1 ratio (8.2%; P = 0.002). In conclusion, the use of the eversion technique is a safe alternative for bile duct discrepancy in DDLT. However, severe bile duct size mismatch may be a risk factor for biliary strictures with such a technique.
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Testa G, McKenna GJ, Gunby RT, Anthony T, Koon EC, Warren AM, Putman JM, Zhang L, dePrisco G, Mitchell JM, Wallis K, Klintmalm GB, Olausson M, Johannesson L. First live birth after uterus transplantation in the United States. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:1270-1274. [PMID: 29575738 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Uterus transplantation has proven to be a successful treatment for women with absolute uterine infertility, caused either by the absence of a uterus or the presence of a nonfunctioning uterus. We report the first birth of a healthy child following uterus transplantation in the United States, from a recipient of a uterus allograft procured from an altruistic living donor. Two major modifications from the previously reported live births characterized this uterus transplant. First, the transplanted uterus relied upon and sustained the pregnancy while having only the utero-ovarian vein as venous outflow. The implication is a significantly simplified living donor surgery that paves the way for minimally invasive laparoscopic or robot-assisted techniques for the donor hysterectomy. Second, the time from transplantation to embryo transfer was significantly shortened from prior protocols, allowing for an overall shorter exposure to immunosuppression by the recipient and lowering the risk for potential adverse effects from these medications.
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Warren AM, Testa G, Anthony T, McKenna GJ, Klintmalm GB, Wallis K, Koon EC, Gunby RT, Johannesson L. Live nondirected uterus donors: Psychological characteristics and motivation for donation. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:1122-1128. [PMID: 29364592 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Emerging research suggests that uterus transplantation is a viable option for women without a uterus who want to become pregnant and carry a child to term. Currently, no knowledge exists regarding nondirected uterus donors. This study (NCT 02656550) explored the baseline psychological characteristics of nondirected uterus donors at a single study site. Of the 62 potential donors who underwent initial screening, 6 nondirected donors were chosen and participated in uterus donation. Participants received a comprehensive evaluation, which included clinical history and psychological assessments. The mean age of the donors was 42 years; most (83%) were white/not Hispanic, and all had a college degree. Current depression was reported by 2 participants, past depression was reported in 2 participants, and past anxiety was reported in 3 participants. Based on several different psychological measures, donors had a higher general well-being than the normative sample, and none of the participants' scores indicated psychological distress. All 6 women indicated that giving another woman an opportunity to carry her own child was a motivation for pursuing uterus donation. Further research on potential psychological motives and gains for the donor as well as long-term effects on donors is crucial for ethical practice.
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Johannesson L, Wallis K, Koon EC, McKenna GJ, Anthony T, Leffingwell SG, Klintmalm GB, Gunby RT, Testa G. Living uterus donation and transplantation: experience of interest and screening in a single center in the United States. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 218:331.e1-331.e7. [PMID: 29221944 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2017.11.594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about attitudes toward uterus donation and transplantation in society and the interest of the women the treatment is aimed to assist. OBJECTIVE This study examined the interest of recipients and living donors in our uterus transplantation program; it describes the screening protocol we developed and the results of the screening and reports demographic data and characteristics of screened candidates. STUDY DESIGN Initial screening and evaluation included physical examinations by a gynecologist and a transplant surgeon; psychological evaluation; imaging (x-ray, computed tomography, ultrasound); blood tests; immunological testing; viral, bacterial, and fungal testing; drug screen; hormonal testing; Papanicolau smear; urinalysis; and electrocardiogram. For selected recipients, the process also included in vitro fertilization. RESULTS A total of 351 women contacted our department with interest in participating in uterus transplantation; 272 were potential recipients and 79 were potential donors. Among these women, 179 potential recipients and 62 potential donors continued the evaluation after the initial telephone screening. The mean age of the donor candidates was 40 years; all had completed their own family, and 80% were nondirected. Most recipient candidates (92%) had an anatomical lack of the uterus, and of these, 36% had a congenital malformation. The women with a congenital uterine absence were in general younger than the women in the group whose uterus had been removed (mean of 28 and 33 years, respectively). In every step of the initial screening and evaluation process, there were donor and recipient candidates that chose not to continue the process. The reasons for self-withdrawal after expressing interest were not returning phone calls or e-mails (17 donors and 76 recipients); after initial phone screening, no longer interested (1 donor and 9 recipients); in step 1, health history questionnaire not returned after 1 reminder (10 donors and 9 recipients); step 2, not right in their current life situation (2 donors and 2 recipients), and in step 3, chose another way to achieve motherhood (1 recipient). Most donor and recipient candidates (52% and 78%, respectively) could be screened out (because of self-withdrawal or transplant team's decision) during the noninvasive and cost-efficient initial screening. CONCLUSION Our initial experience shows a great interest in participating in a trial of uterus transplantation by both potential recipients and donors. It is the first study to show interest in nondirected donation. A sufficient but thoughtful screening process of living donors and recipients is essential and should aim both to assure donor/recipient safety and to provide good quality grafts.
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Testa G, Anthony T, McKenna GJ, Koon EC, Wallis K, Klintmalm GB, Reese JC, Johannesson L. Deceased donor uterus retrieval: A novel technique and workflow. Am J Transplant 2018; 18:679-683. [PMID: 28858421 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Uterus transplantation has proven successful when performed with a living donor. Subsequently, interest in the novel field of reproductive transplantation is growing. The procedure is still considered experimental, with fewer than 25 cases performed worldwide, and the techniques of both uterus procurement and transplantation are still developing. We detail a new approach to deceased donor uterus procurement. In contrast to reported techniques and our own initial experience, in which the deceased donor uterus was procured post cross-clamp and after other organs were procured, our approach now is to perform the uterus procurement prior to the procurement of other organs in a multiorgan donor and hence prior to cross-clamp. We describe our practical experience in developing and implementing the logistical workflow for deceased donor uterus procurement in a deceased multiorgan donor setting.
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Klintmalm GB, Kaplan B. The kidney allocation system claims equity: It is time to review utility and fairness. Am J Transplant 2017; 17:2999-3000. [PMID: 28787775 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Testa G, Koon EC, Johannesson L, McKenna GJ, Anthony T, Klintmalm GB, Gunby RT, Warren AM, Putman JM, dePrisco G, Mitchell JM, Wallis K, Olausson M. Living Donor Uterus Transplantation: A Single Center's Observations and Lessons Learned From Early Setbacks to Technical Success. Am J Transplant 2017; 17:2901-2910. [PMID: 28432742 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Uterus transplantation is a vascularized composite allograft transplantation. It allows women who do not have a uterus to become pregnant and deliver a baby. In this paper, we analyze the first five cases of living donor uterus transplantation performed in the United States. The first three recipients lost their uterus grafts at days 14, 12, and 6, respectively, after transplant. Vascular complications, related to both inflow and outflow problems, were identified as the primary reason for the graft losses. Two recipients, at 6 and 3 mo, respectively, after transplant, have functioning grafts with regular menstrual cycles. Ultimate success will be claimed only after a live birth. This paper is an in-depth analysis of evaluation, surgical technique, and follow-up of these five living donor uterus transplants. The lessons learned were instrumental in allowing us to evolve from failure to technical and functional success. We aim to share our conclusions and build on knowledge in the evolving field of uterus transplantation.
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Draoua M, Titze N, Gupta A, Fernandez HT, Ramsay M, Saracino G, McKenna G, Testa G, Klintmalm GB, Kim PTW. Significance of measured intraoperative portal vein flows after thrombendvenectomy in deceased donor liver transplantations with portal vein thrombosis. Liver Transpl 2017; 23:1032-1039. [PMID: 28425187 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2016] [Revised: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Adequate portal vein (PV) flow in liver transplantation is essential for a good outcome, and it may be compromised in patients with portal vein thrombosis (PVT). This study evaluated the impact of intraoperatively measured PV flow after PV thrombendvenectomy on outcomes after deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT). The study included 77 patients over a 16-year period who underwent PV thrombendvenectomy with complete flow data. Patients were classified into 2 groups: high PV flow (>1300 mL/minute; n = 55) and low PV flow (≤1300 mL/minute; n = 22). Postoperative complications and graft survival were analyzed according to the PV flow. The 2 groups were similar in demographic characteristics. Low PV flow was associated with higher cumulative rates of biliary strictures (P = 0.02) and lower 1-, 2-, and 5-year graft survival (89%, 85%, and 68% versus 64%, 55%, and 38%, respectively; P = 0.002). There was no difference in the incidence of postoperative PVT between the groups (1.8% versus 9.1%; P = 0.19). No biliary leaks or hepatic artery thromboses were reported in either group. By multivariate analyses, age >60 years (hazard ratio [HR], 3.04, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.36-6.82; P = 0.007) and low portal flow (HR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.15-4.65; P = 0.02) were associated with worse survival. In conclusion, PV flow <1300 mL/minute after PV thrombendvenectomy for PVT during DDLT was associated with higher rates of biliary strictures and worse graft survival. Consideration should be given to identifying reasons for low flow and performing maneuvers to increase PV flow when intraoperative PV flows are <1300 mL/minute. Liver Transplantation 23 1032-1039 2017 AASLD.
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Hasan MM, Joo H, Klintmalm GB, Oh S, Thompson-Snipes L. Regulatory B cells in the blood of plasma cell hepatitis patients who have undergone liver transplantation. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.198.supp.82.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Alloreactive T cells and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) appear to be barriers to long-term organ engraftment. Regulatory B cells (Bregs), a B cell subset, can protect against autoimmune/inflammatory damage, in part, by producing IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine. However, the role of Bregs in solid organ transplantation is poorly understood. In this study, we examined IL-10 producing human Bregs in the blood of healthy controls compared to liver transplanted patients with plasma cell hepatitis (PCH), a variant of late onset rejection. First, we optimized conditions for human Breg differentiation in vitro. Based on the presence of differentially expressed cell surface markers on IL-10+ CD19+ B cells, we then established a profile of Bregs from several human tissues including tonsils and spleens and demonstrated that in vitro generated IL-10+CD19+ B cells are capable to suppress alloantigen stimulated T cell proliferation and cytokine production. Finally, we find that the frequency of CpG B activated IL-10+CD19+ B cells is negligible in PCH+ liver transplant patients compared with healthy controls. In line with this, the frequency of transitional B cells (CD19+CD24hiCD38hi) is significantly lower in PCH+ liver transplanted patients than healthy controls. Our findings suggest that a lack of immunosuppressive Bregs could be associated with the rejection in the PCH+ patients
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Gupta A, Klintmalm GB, Kim PTW. Reply. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:1740. [PMID: 27543857 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Klintmalm GB, Vincenti F, Kirk A. Steroid-Responsive Acute Rejection Should Not Be the End Point for Immunosuppressive Trials. Am J Transplant 2016; 16:3077-3078. [PMID: 27232598 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Demetris AJ, Bellamy C, Hübscher SG, O'Leary J, Randhawa PS, Feng S, Neil D, Colvin RB, McCaughan G, Fung JJ, Del Bello A, Reinholt FP, Haga H, Adeyi O, Czaja AJ, Schiano T, Fiel MI, Smith ML, Sebagh M, Tanigawa RY, Yilmaz F, Alexander G, Baiocchi L, Balasubramanian M, Batal I, Bhan AK, Bucuvalas J, Cerski CTS, Charlotte F, de Vera ME, ElMonayeri M, Fontes P, Furth EE, Gouw ASH, Hafezi-Bakhtiari S, Hart J, Honsova E, Ismail W, Itoh T, Jhala NC, Khettry U, Klintmalm GB, Knechtle S, Koshiba T, Kozlowski T, Lassman CR, Lerut J, Levitsky J, Licini L, Liotta R, Mazariegos G, Minervini MI, Misdraji J, Mohanakumar T, Mölne J, Nasser I, Neuberger J, O'Neil M, Pappo O, Petrovic L, Ruiz P, Sağol Ö, Sanchez Fueyo A, Sasatomi E, Shaked A, Shiller M, Shimizu T, Sis B, Sonzogni A, Stevenson HL, Thung SN, Tisone G, Tsamandas AC, Wernerson A, Wu T, Zeevi A, Zen Y. 2016 Comprehensive Update of the Banff Working Group on Liver Allograft Pathology: Introduction of Antibody-Mediated Rejection. Am J Transplant 2016; 16:2816-2835. [PMID: 27273869 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 364] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Revised: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Banff Working Group on Liver Allograft Pathology reviewed and discussed literature evidence regarding antibody-mediated liver allograft rejection at the 11th (Paris, France, June 5-10, 2011), 12th (Comandatuba, Brazil, August 19-23, 2013), and 13th (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, October 5-10, 2015) meetings of the Banff Conference on Allograft Pathology. Discussion continued online. The primary goal was to introduce guidelines and consensus criteria for the diagnosis of liver allograft antibody-mediated rejection and provide a comprehensive update of all Banff Schema recommendations. Included are new recommendations for complement component 4d tissue staining and interpretation, staging liver allograft fibrosis, and findings related to immunosuppression minimization. In an effort to create a single reference document, previous unchanged criteria are also included.
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