Tuberculosis in orthotopic liver transplant patients: increased toxicity of recommended agents; cure of disseminated infection with nonconventional regimens

Renal Transplantation in Patients With Tuberculosis: A Single-center Experience From an Endemic Region

Background

Despite being a common infection in end-stage kidney disease patients, there are no evidence-based guidelines to suggest the ideal time of transplantation in patients on antitubercular therapy (ATT). This study aimed to examine the outcome of transplantation in patients while on ATT compared with those without tuberculosis (TB).

Methods

This was a retrospective study. Renal transplant recipients transplanted while on ATT were compared with a 1:1 matched group (for age, sex, diabetic status, and type of induction agent) of patients without TB at the time of transplant. Patient outcomes included relapse of TB and graft and patient survival.

Results

There were 71 patients in each group. The mean duration for which ATT was given pretransplant was 3.8 ± 2.47 mo. The average total duration of ATT received was 12.27 ± 1.25 mo. Mortality in both the groups was similar (8.4% in the TB group versus 4.5% in the non-TB group; P = 0.49). None of the surviving patients had recurrence of TB during the follow-up. Death-censored graft survival (98.5% in the TB group versus 97% in the non-TB group; P = 1) and biopsy-proven acute rejection rates (9.86% in the TB group versus 8.45% in the non-TB group; P = 1) were also similar in both the groups.

Conclusions

Successful transplantation in patients with end-stage kidney disease on ATT is possible without any deleterious effect on patient and graft survival and no risk of disease recurrence. Multicentric prospective studies are needed.

Tuberculosis treatment without rifampin in kidney/kidney-pancreas transplantation: A case series report

BACKGROUND

The best approach to tuberculosis (TB) treatment in transplanted patients is still unknown. Current guidelines are based on evidence either extrapolated from other populations or observational. Rifampin-containing regimens have strong pharmacokinetic interactions with immunosuppressive regimens, with high rates of organ dysfunction and ∼20% mortality. This report describes the results obtained using non-rifampin-containing regimens to treat confirmed TB in adult patients with kidney/kidney-pancreas transplantation.

METHODS

Retrospective data analysis from confirmed TB cases in adult kidney/kidney-pancreas transplant recipients (2006-2019), treated "de novo" with non-rifampin-containing regimens.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients had confirmed TB. Thirty patients were treated "de novo" with non-rifampin-containing regimens. These patients' mean age was 49.24 (±11.50) years. Induction immunosuppression was used in 22 patients. Maintenance immunosuppression was tacrolimus-mycophenolate-steroids in 13 (43%), sirolimus-mycophenolate-steroids in 6 (20%), and other immunosuppressive regimens in 11 (36%). Belatacept was used in four patients. TB localizations: pulmonary 43%; disseminated 23%; extrapulmonary 33%. Twenty-seven (90%) patients completed treatment with isoniazid, ethambutol, and levofloxacin (12 months, 23; 9 months, 3; 6 months, 1); 12 of these patients also received pyrazinamide for the first 2 months and were cured with functioning grafts. One patient (3%) lost the graft while on treatment. Two patients (7%) died while on TB treatment. Median (range) follow-up after completion of TB treatment was 32 (8-150) months. No TB relapses were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Results with non-rifampin-containing TB treatments in this case series were better (in terms of mortality and graft dysfunction) than those previously described with rifampin-containing regimens in transplanted patients.

A Case Series of Extrapulmonary Mycobacterium in Liver Transplant Recipients

Liver transplant recipients are at increased risk of infection because of the immunosuppression required after transplantation. Infection by Mycobacterium species increases the morbidity and mortality of liver transplant recipients. The prompt recognition and diagnosis of opportunistic infection is necessary for good outcomes, particularly during periods of increased immunosuppression. The balance of immunosuppressive therapies during prolonged treatment with hepatotoxic medications has not been well studied and should be tailored for the unique clinical setting of each patient. The goal of treatment in these patients is to eradicate the disease and preserve allograft function.

Prevention and treatment of tuberculosis in solid organ transplant recipients

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Its management in transplant recipients is difficult and highly complex, given the underlying immunosuppression and the risks of drug-drug interactions imposed by immunosuppressive drugs that are needed to maintain the transplant allograft.Areas covered: We provide a brief review of TB in SOT and discuss the clinical indications, mechanisms of action and drug resistance, drug-drug interactions, and adverse effects of anti-TB drugs. We provide a summary of recent clinical trials, which serve as the foundation for current recommendations. We further include relevant updates on new agents being evaluated for clinical use in TB management.Expert commentary: TB causes significant morbidity in SOT recipients. The drugs used in the treatment for latent TB and active disease in SOT are similar to the regimens used in the general population. However, TB disease in transplant recipients is more difficult to manage because of the potential for hepatotoxicity and the complex drug-drug interactions with immunosuppressive drugs. We believe that alternative regimens suited for the vulnerable transplant population, and more therapeutic drug options are needed given the adverse toxicities associated with currently approved anti-TB drugs.

Treatment of latent TB Infection and the risk of tuberculosis after solid organ transplantation: Comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium tuberculosis disease may occur after treatment of latent TB infection (LTBI). Prompted by a case of reactivation TB disease in a solid organ transplant (SOT) recipient who received LTBI treatment, we reviewed the literature to examine outcomes, adverse effects, resistance, and treatment choices of tuberculosis after LTBI therapy.

METHODS

MEDLINE and Web of Science from inception to 5/2019 were reviewed using key words "latent tuberculosis infection" and "SOT" or "transplantation." The search yielded nine cases, 41 cohort studies and six randomized controlled trials (RCT).

RESULTS

Cohort and RCT demonstrated significant reduction in TB disease among transplanted patients who received LTBI therapy; only 56/2651 (2.1%) SOT patients developed TB after LTBI therapy. Adverse drug reactions occurred in 149/1148 (12.9%) and 73/641 (11.4%) of cohort and RCT patients, respectively. Among liver recipients, 56/266 (21%) developed side effects, of which half (29/56, 51.8%) was INH-related. There was no reported INH resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

Latent TB infection treatment is efficacious in SOT recipients at risk of TB disease. However, tuberculosis may still occur despite LTBI treatment. Hepatotoxicity associated with LTBI therapy is infrequent, although more commonly observed among liver recipients.

Linezolid-containing Treatment Regimens for Tuberculosis in Children

BACKGROUND

In recent years, there is an increasing interest in the use of linezolid for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB).

METHODS

Patients less than 18 years of age who received linezolid within the Spanish Pediatric TB Network from 2001 to 2016 were retrospectively included. Treatment characteristics, adverse events (AEs) and outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifteen children were included (53% male) with a median age of 3.6 years [interquartile range (IQR): 1.6-6.2]. Median follow-up was 54 months (IQR: 38-76). The reasons for linezolid use were drug-resistant TB in 8 (53%) patients, drug-induced liver injury in 5 (33%) patients and chronic liver disease in 2 (13%) patients. Four children (26%) were on immunosuppressive therapy when TB was diagnosed. Five children (33%) were diagnosed with extrapulmonary TB. The median duration of linezolid treatment was 13 months (IQR: 7.5-17). Nine patients had 13 linezolid-related AEs. Hematologic toxicity was observed in 8 patients (53%) and gastrointestinal intolerance in 3 patients (20%). In 2 patients, linezolid dose was reduced, and in 2 patients, linezolid was discontinued because of AEs. A 2-year-old girl went back to her country of birth and was lost to follow-up. No relapses were observed among the other 14 patients (93%).

CONCLUSIONS

Linezolid may be considered when treating children with drug-resistant TB but also in the cases of patients with chronic liver disease or drug-induced liver injury. However, AEs should be closely monitored. Further studies are needed to determine the optimum dosage and the optimal duration of linezolid treatment in children.

Chest X-ray and chest CT findings in patients diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis following solid organ transplantation: a systematic review

The objective of this systematic review was to select articles including chest X-ray or chest CT findings in patients who developed pulmonary tuberculosis following solid organ transplantation (lung, kidney, or liver). The following search terms were used: "tuberculosis"; "transplants"; "transplantation"; "mycobacterium"; and "lung". The databases used in this review were PubMed and the Brazilian Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (Virtual Health Library). We selected articles in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, regardless of the year of publication, that met the selection criteria in their title, abstract, or body of text. Articles with no data on chest CT or chest X-ray findings were excluded, as were those not related to solid organ transplantation or pulmonary tuberculosis. We selected 29 articles involving a collective total of 219 patients. The largest samples were in studies conducted in Brazil and South Korea (78 and 35 patients, respectively). The imaging findings were subdivided into five common patterns. The imaging findings varied depending on the transplanted organ in these patients. In liver and lung transplant recipients, the most common pattern was the classic one for pulmonary tuberculosis (cavitation and "tree-in-bud" nodules), which is similar to the findings for pulmonary tuberculosis in the general population. The proportion of cases showing a miliary pattern and lymph node enlargement, which is most similar to the pattern seen in patients coinfected with tuberculosis and HIV, was highest among the kidney transplant recipients. Further studies evaluating clinical data, such as immunosuppression regimens, are needed in order to improve understanding of the distribution of these imaging patterns in this population.

A practical approach to tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment in liver transplant recipients in a low-prevalence area

Solid organ transplant candidates/recipients are at risk of mycobacterial infections. Although guidelines on the management of latent tuberculosis infection and active tuberculosis are available for solid organ transplant recipients, limited guidance focuses on end-stage liver disease or liver transplant recipients who require management in a referral center. Therapeutic challenges arise from direct antituberculosis drug-related hepatotoxicity, and substantial metabolic interactions between immunosuppressive and antituberculosis drugs. Another issue is the optimal timing of therapy with regards to the time of transplantation. This review focuses on the importance of tuberculosis screening with immunological tests, challenges in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection and active tuberculosis, as well as risk assessment for active tuberculosis in the critical peri-liver transplantation period. We detail therapeutic adjustments required for the management of antituberculosis drugs in latent tuberculosis infection and active tuberculosis, particularly when concomitantly using rifampicin and immunosuppressive drugs.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis after solid organ transplantation: A review of more than 2000 cases

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) is a common pathogen worldwide, and it may cause significant infection after solid organ transplantation (SOT). We reviewed all reported TB cases to provide an update on its epidemiology, clinical presentation, management, and outcome after SOT.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and OVID were reviewed from January 1, 1998, to December 31, 2016, using keywords tuberculosis and solid organ transplant or transplantation.

RESULTS

There were 187 publications reporting 2082 cases of TB among kidney (n = 1719), liver (n = 253), heart (n = 77), lung (n = 25), and kidney-pancreas (n = 8) recipients. Among cohort studies, the median incidence was 2.37% (range, 0.05%-13.27%) overall. Most TB disease was considered reactivation of latent infection, occurring beyond the first year after SOT. Early-onset cases were seen among donor-derived TB cases. Fever was the most common symptom. Radiologic findings were highly variable. Extrapulmonary and disseminated TB occurred 29.84% and 15.96%, respectively. Multidrug-resistant TB was rare. Treatment using 4 or 5 drugs was commonly associated with hepatotoxicity and graft dysfunction. All-cause mortality was 18.84%.

CONCLUSIONS

This large review highlights the complexity of TB after SOT. Reactivation TB, donor-transmitted infection, extrapulmonary involvement, and disseminated disease are common occurrences. Treatment of TB is commonly associated with hepatotoxicity and graft dysfunction.

Diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary cavity after liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Although the outcomes have improved in the current era, pulmonary infection remains a significant post-transplant complication in liver transplant (LT) recipients. Pulmonary infection with cavity formation often leads to higher mortality rates after LT. We wished to investigate the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary cavity (PC) formation after LT.

METHODS

We evaluated (retrospectively) five cases of PC formation, shown on CT scans of the chest after LT, by analyzing imaging features, diagnosis, treatment, liver function, and the concentration changes and efficacy of immunosuppressants.

RESULTS

According to the results from the CT scan, serum Aspergillus galactomannan (GM) assay, the purified protein derivative (PPD) skin test, and the sputum smears and blood culture, three cases were diagnosed with Aspergillus infection, and the other two cases were diagnosed with Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Liver function and FK506 concentration were monitored during treatment. Antibiotics used for treatment of Aspergillus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections affected liver function and FK506 concentration. However, after adjustment of drug doses, antibiotic treatment was tolerated in all patients. Four cases were cured, but 1 patient died of Aspergillus infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Distinguishing between Aspergillus infection and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection for PCs after liver transplantation (LT) using a CT scan is difficult. The diagnosis can be confirmed using clinical characteristics, sputum culture, GM assay, PPD, and sputum smears. Early diagnosis and treatment could lead to a better prognosis.

Tuberculosis of the Liver, Biliary Tract, and Pancreas

Tuberculosis of the liver, biliary tract, and pancreas is discussed. In addition, tuberculosis in the setting of HIV-AIDS and liver transplantation is explored. Drug-induced liver injury secondary to antituberculosis medication and monitoring and prophylactic treatment for such injury is also considered.

Live donor liver transplantation for antitubercular drug-induced acute liver failure

Antitubercular therapy (ATT)-induced hepatotoxicity is often over looked and active tuberculosis is considered a contraindication for liver transplantation, however it might be the only lifesaving option to certain patients of acute liver failure (ALF) due to ATT. We have assessed the outcome of live donor liver transplantation in ATT-induced ALF. A retrospective analysis of all the cases of ALF that underwent liver transplantation from 2006 to 2014 at the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences was done. A total of seven (7.7%) patients with ATT-induced ALF who had underwent live donor liver transplantation were included in the study. Out of seven patients, three (42.8%) had established diagnosis of tuberculosis and the remaining (58.2%) patients were started on ATT empirically. The median duration of ATT intake was 2 months. All the patients underwent live donor liver transplant as they met King's College criteria, and their model for end-stage liver disease score was above 35 on admission, receiving graft from first degree relatives. Histopathology of explant liver showed pan acinar necrosis. Restarting of ATT after transplant was individualized. It was restarted only in two (28%) patients with prior sputum-positive pulmonary tuberculosis after a median time of 27 days after transplant. ATT was not restarted in rest of the (72%) patients. Postoperative mortality was seen in two (28%) patients due to conditions that masquerade the ATT-induced acute liver failure. The overall survival rate was 71.4% with a median follow up of 22 months. Live donor-related transplantation is feasible option in ATT-induced acute liver failure. Restarting of ATT post liver transplant is feasible and should be individualized along with frequent monitoring of immunosuppressant levels; however, if the primary diagnosis of tuberculosis was empirical, reintroduction of ATT can be omitted.

Mycobacterial infections in solid organ transplant recipients

Mycobacterial infections represent a growing challenge for solid organ transplant recipients (SOT). The adverse effects of tuberculosis (TB) therapy present a major difficulty, due to the interactions with immunosuppressive drugs and direct drug toxicity. While TB may be donor-transmitted or community-acquired, it usually develops at a latent infection site in the recipient. Pre-transplant prevention efforts will improve transplant outcomes and avoid the complications associated with post-transplant diagnosis and treatment. The present review and consensus manuscript is based on the updated published information and expert recommendations. The current data about epidemiology, diagnosis, new regimens for the treatment of latent TB infection (LTBI), the experience with rifamycins for the treatment of active TB in the post-transplant period and the experience with isoniazid for LTBI in the liver transplant population, are also reviewed. We attempt to provide useful recommendations for each transplant period and problem concerning mycobacterial infections in SOT recipients.

Clinical features and outcomes of tuberculosis in transplant recipients as compared with the general population: a retrospective matched cohort study

There are no previous studies comparing tuberculosis in transplant recipients (TRs) with other hosts. We compared the characteristics and outcomes of tuberculosis in TRs and patients from the general population. Twenty-two TRs who developed tuberculosis from 1996 through 2010 at a tertiary hospital were included. Each TR was matched by age, gender and year of diagnosis with four controls selected from among non-TR non-human immunodeficiency virus patients with tuberculosis. TRs (21 patients, 96%) had more factors predisposing to tuberculosis than non-TRs (33, 38%) (p <0.001). Pulmonary tuberculosis was more common in non-TRs (77 (88%) vs. 12 TRs (55%); p 0.001); disseminated tuberculosis was more frequent in TRs (five (23%) vs. four non-TRs (5%); p 0.005). Time from clinical suspicion of tuberculosis to definitive diagnosis was longer in TRs (median of 14 days) than in non-TRs (median of 0 days) (p <0.001), and invasive procedures were more often required (12 (55%) TRs and 15 (17%) non-TRs, respectively; p 0.001). Tuberculosis was diagnosed post-mortem in three TRs (14%) and in no non-TRs (p <0.001). Rates of toxicity associated with antituberculous therapy were 38% in TRs (six patients) and 10% (seven patients) in non-TRs (p 0.014). Tuberculosis-related mortality rates in TRs and non-TRs were 18% and 6%, respectively (p 0.057). The adjusted Cox regression analysis showed that the only predictor of tuberculosis-related mortality was a higher number of organs with tuberculosis involvement (adjusted hazard ratio 8.6; 95% CI 1.2-63). In conclusion, manifestations of tuberculosis in TRs differ from those in normal hosts. Post-transplant tuberculosis resists timely diagnosis, and is associated with a higher risk of death before a diagnosis can be made.

Hepatotoxicity from antituberculous therapy in the elderly: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Elderly persons have the highest rates of tuberculosis (TB) in the United States compared to all other age groups. A systematic literature review was conducted to determine if older age was a risk factor for hepatotoxicity resulting from treatment with first-line drugs used to treat active (TB) and latent tuberculosis (LTBI).

METHODS

A systematic review of MEDLINE, Cochrane Controlled Trial Registry, CINAHL(®), and Science Citation Index Expanded (from 1970 to 2011) was performed to determine the risk of hepatotoxicity, comparing those over 60 with those under 60. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model along with log odds ratios and the chi-square test.

FINDINGS

Thirty-eight studies (40,034 participants; 1208 cases of hepatotoxicity) met the selection criteria. For active TB, an overall mean effect of 0.277 (p = 0.024, 95% CI: 0.037-0.517) was observed, which is equivalent to an odds ratio of 1.32 (95% CI: 1.04-1.68). For LTBI, an overall mean effect of 1.42 (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.794-2.05) was observed, which translates to an odds ratio of 4.14 (95% CI: 2.21-7.74).

INTERPRETATION

Our analysis revealed that patients older than 60 had significantly more risk of hepatotoxicity. These studies suggest that a gentler regimen of treatment for older individuals could benefit health outcomes in this population of TB patients and minimize risks to the public's health.

Tuberculosis in solid-organ transplant recipients: disease characteristics and outcomes in the current era

We determined the characteristics of posttransplant tuberculosis and the impact of rifampin-based antituberculosis regimens on outcomes in the current era. Patients comprised 64 transplant recipients with tuberculosis, divided into 2 consecutive cohorts: an earlier cohort (cases occurring from 2003 to 2007) and a later cohort (cases from 2008 to 2011). Patients from the later versus earlier era had tuberculosis develop later after transplant (odds ratio, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00-1.02; P= .05), were more likely to be liver transplant recipients (odds ratio, 4.52; 95% CI, 1.32-15.53; P= .02), and were more likely to receive tacrolimus-based immunosuppression (odds ratio, 3.24; 95% CI, 1.14-9.19; P= .03). Mortality rate was 10% in the later cohort and 21% in the earlier cohort (P= .20). Rifampin-based treatment was less likely to be used in patients with prior rejection (P= .04). However, neither rejection rate (P= .71) nor mortality (P= .93) after tuberculosis differed between recipients who received rifampin and recipients who did not. Thus, notable changes have occurred in the epidemiological characteristics of tuberculosis in transplant recipients. Overall mortality rate has improved, with about 90% of the patients now surviving after tuberculosis.

Challenging issues in tuberculosis in solid organ transplantation

Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients are at risk for opportunistic infections including tuberculosis. Although guidelines on the management of latent tuberculosis and active tuberculosis are available, there remain a number of clinical areas with limited guidance. We discuss challenges in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of latent and active tuberculosis in SOT candidates and recipients who reside in low-tuberculosis-prevalence areas. We discuss the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis in SOT candidates/recipients using tuberculin skin tests and interferon-γ release assays and risk stratification of SOT candidates/recipients that would identify individuals at high risk for latent tuberculosis despite negative test results. Through a careful review of posttransplant tuberculosis cases, we identify a history of treated tuberculosis in SOT recipients as a risk factor for development of posttransplant active tuberculosis. Finally, we include comparisons of recommendations by several large transplant organizations and identify areas for future research.

Chemoprophylaxis with isoniazid in liver transplant recipients

A patient receiving a liver graft needs to be treated with immunosuppressive drugs to avoid rejection. These kinds of drugs predispose the patient to the reactivation of latent infections such as tuberculosis (TB). Therefore, it is necessary to establish treatment regimens to prevent this. We retrospectively analyzed all consecutive patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) at our center between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2010. Latent tuberculosis infections (LTBIs) were diagnosed with positive tuberculin skin test results. After LT, infected patients were treated with isoniazid for 6 months; the treatment began soon after transplantation, and the patients were followed until the end of the study. During this period, 53 patients had LTBI data. All these patients were treated with isoniazid after LT. The median observation period after LT was 52 months (range = 12-129 months). No cases of TB reactivation were reported during follow-up. Only 4 patients presented alterations in liver enzymes related to this treatment, and they showed clear improvement after the treatment was stopped. None of these patients showed severe graft dysfunction. In conclusion, preventive isoniazid appears to be a safe drug for use in LTBI patients after LT. The treatment may be established just after LT without important graft dysfunction or severe consequences for the patient.

Tuberculosis of the central nervous system in immunocompromised patients: HIV infection and solid organ transplant recipients

Central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis (TB) is a devastating infection with high rates of morbidity and mortality worldwide and may manifest as meningitis, tuberculoma, abscess, or other forms of disease. Immunosuppression, due to either human immunodeficiency virus infection or solid organ transplantation, increases susceptibility for acquiring or reactivating TB and complicates the management of underlying immunosuppression and CNS TB infection. This article reviews how immunosuppression alters the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of TB infections of the CNS.

Analytic Review: Neurological Complications of Transplantation

Recipients of solid organ or hematopoietic cell transplants are at risk of life-threatening neurological disorders including encephalopathy, seizures, infections and tumors of the central nervous system, stroke, central pontine myelinolysis, and neuromuscular disorders—often requiring admission to, or occurring in, the intensive care unit (ICU). Many of these complications are linked directly or indirectly to immunosuppressive therapy. However, neurological disorders may also result from graft versus host disease, or be an expression of the underlying disease which prompted transplantation, as well as injury induced during radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, and ICU stay. In rare cases, neuroinfectious pathogens may be transmitted with the transplanted tissue or organ. Diagnosis may be a challenge because clinical symptoms and findings on neuroimaging lack specificity, and a biological specimen or tissue diagnosis is often needed for definitive diagnosis. Management is centered on preventing further neurological injury, etiology-targeted therapy, and balancing the benefits and toxicities of specific immunosuppressive agents.

Acute liver failure due to antitubercular therapy: Strategy for antitubercular treatment before and after liver transplantation

The standard antitubercular treatment (ATT), which consists of isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RIF), ethambutol, and pyrazinamide (PZA), is the best available treatment for tuberculosis (TB). However, the hepatotoxicity of INH and PZA can be severe, and even after drug withdrawal, patients may require liver transplantation (LT). In these cases, the strategy for the treatment of TB is poorly defined. Between 1986 and 2008, 14 patients presented at our department with severe hepatitis secondary to INH and PZA treatment. Four of these patients were immunosuppressed: 2 after renal transplantation and 2 because of human immunodeficiency virus infection. In seven of the 14 patients an alternative ATT was begun on admission, which was well tolerated. Hepatitis improved spontaneously in 5 patients, and alternative ATT was continued for 9.3 ± 4.2 months; 1 patient deteriorated and underwent LT, and 1 patient died. ATT was stopped definitively in 2 patients. Six patients required urgent LT, and alternative ATT was started after transplantation and was successful. Five patients receiving RIF had an episode of acute rejection. In conclusion, hepatitis secondary to ATT can be successfully treated with alternative anti-TB regimens. The use of RIF in LT patients may lead to acute rejection. RIF should therefore be avoided in these patients.

Hepatotoxic effects of therapies for tuberculosis

Hepatotoxic effects attributable to antituberculosis therapy are considered unique among drug-related liver problems because almost all first-line antituberculosis medications have such adverse effects, which vary in severity according to the drug and the regimen. In addition, all regimens for the treatment of active tuberculosis include a combination of medications that must typically be administered for at least 6 months to ensure complete cure of the disease and to minimize the development of drug-resistant bacterial strains. Hepatotoxic effects are a serious problem in patients who are undergoing treatment for tuberculosis, not only because of the morbidity and mortality they directly cause, but also because the liver symptoms can necessitate interruption of therapy or affect a patient's adherence to it, which can limit the efficacy of the antitubercular regimen.

[Consensus document for the management of tuberculosis in solid organ transplant recipients]

The relevance of tuberculosis in solid organ transplant recipients stems from the difficulties in the diagnosis, which delay the start of treatment, and the associated toxicity of pharmacological therapy. These facts are responsible for the large number of clinical complications and the high mortality in this population. This Consensus Document from GESITRA (Spanish Transplantation Infection Study Group) defines the indications for prophylaxis of latent tuberculosis infection in patients undergoing solid organ transplantation, in particular those with a high risk of pharmacological toxicity, as is the case of liver transplant recipients. This Consensus Document also establishes recommendations for the choice of drugs to use and duration of treatment for tuberculosis in solid organ transplant recipients, with special mention of vigilance for the development of pharmacological interactions between rifampin and immunosuppressive drugs (cyclosporine, tacrolimus, rapamycin, and steroids).

Tuberculosis in liver transplant recipients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual patient data

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) causes substantial morbidity and mortality in liver transplant recipients. We examined the efficacy of isoniazid latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection (LTBI) treatment in liver transplant recipients and reviewed systematically all cases of active MTB infection in this population. We found 7 studies that evaluated LTBI treatment and 139 cases of active MTB infection in liver transplant recipients. Isoniazid LTBI treatment was associated with reduced MTB reactivation in transplant patients with latent MTB risk factors (0.0% versus 8.2%, P = 0.02), and isoniazid-related hepatotoxicity occurred in 6% of treated patients, with no reported deaths. The prevalence of active MTB infection in transplant recipients was 1.3%. Nearly half of all recipients with active MTB infection had an identifiable pretransplant MTB risk factor. Among recipients who developed active MTB infection, extrapulmonary involvement was common (67%), including multiorgan disease (27%). The short-term mortality rate was 31%. Surviving patients were more likely to have received 3 or more drugs for MTB induction therapy (P = 0.003) and to have been diagnosed within 1 month of symptom onset (P = 0.01) and were less likely to have multiorgan disease (P = 0.01) or to have experienced episodes of acute transplant rejection (P = 0.02). Compared with the general population, liver transplant recipients have an 18-fold increase in the prevalence of active MTB infection and a 4-fold increase in the case-fatality rate. For high-risk transplant candidates, isoniazid appears safe and is probably effective at reducing MTB reactivation. All liver transplant candidates should receive a tuberculin skin test, and isoniazid LTBI treatment should be given to patients with a positive skin test result or MTB pretransplant risk factors, barring a specific contraindication. Liver Transpl 15:894-906, 2009. (c) 2009 AASLD.

Diagnosis and treatment for tuberculosis infection in liver transplant recipients: case reports

AIM

Tuberculosis (TB) infection after liver transplantation was described, diagnosed and treated herein.

METHODS

We reviewed the clinical presentation, methods of diagnosis, and treatment of 2 cases of TB infection posttransplantation.

RESULTS

Mycobacterium TB infection occurred in 2 of 110 (1.8%) patients undergoing liver transplantation between 2001 and 2006. Pyrexia, poor appetite, and weight loss were common presentations. The diagnosis was confirmed using lymph node biopsy and treated with standard antituberculous agents. One patient was suspected of having TB infection by clinical presentation, and tentative anti-TB drugs were used. The duration of treatment was 9 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnosis and treatment are important in these patients. Careful monitoring of liver function and immunosuppressant levels are essential for patients who receive standard anti-TB drugs.

Clinical Features and Outcome of Tuberculosis in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

: Taiwan is an area with moderate to high incidence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The risk of M tuberculosis infection in transplantation recipients is considered to be significant. Our aim in this study was to investigate the clinical spectrums of M tuberculosis-infected transplantation recipients in a southeast Asian country, Taiwan.

METHODS

: We retrospectively analyzed the demographic data, clinical features, treatment, and outcome of M tuberculosis infection in kidney, heart, and liver transplant recipients from May 1996 to April 2005 at the National Taiwan University Hospital.

RESULTS

: Fifteen patients who had received solid organ transplantation developed tuberculosis (kidney = 6, heart = 7, liver = 2). The median duration from transplantation to diagnosis of tuberculosis was 31 months. The cumulative incidence of post-transplantation tuberculosis was 2.0% (15/760), ie, approximately 3 times that of the general population. Ten patients (66.7%) had pulmonary tuberculosis, 1 (6.7%) had extrapulmonary tuberculosis, and 4 (26.7%) had disseminated tuberculosis. Nine patients completed the anti-tuberculosis treatment; the median treatment duration was 12 months (pulmonary: 9 months; extrapulmonary: 13.5 months). No treatment failure was noted in patients receiving the complete treatment course. The graft failure and mortality rates of post-transplantation tuberculosis were 13.3% each (2/15). The tuberculosis-associated mortality rate was 6.7% (1/15).

CONCLUSIONS

: Cumulative incidence of tuberculosis was slightly higher in transplant recipients than in the general population in Taiwan. Conventional 4-combined anti-tuberculosis regimen for 12 months can treat the potentially fatal infection successfully in post-transplantation tuberculosis patients without recurrence.

Safety of Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Compensated Cirrhotic Patients During Transplant Candidacy Period

BACKGROUND

Treatment of latent tuberculosis infection with isoniazid (INH) or rifampin (RIF) is controversial in liver transplant candidates due to potential hepatotoxicity. In this study, treatment of latent tuberculosis during transplant candidacy period is explored, and relevant literature is reviewed.

METHODS

Liver transplant candidates with latent tuberculosis infection by positive tuberculin skin test (>5 mm) were prospectively enrolled and treated with 9 months of INH or 4 months of RIF, and were monitored monthly for their liver enzyme profiles, adverse effects, compliance, and completion rate.

RESULTS

Four of nine patients with INH had asymptomatic, mild elevations of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or alanine aminotransferase (ALT) versus none of five patients in the RIF group. Two cases of elevations were attributed to INH. Two other cases were attributed to alcoholism or active chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Only one patient in the INH group experienced symptoms possibly attributed to INH hepatotoxicity. Compliance was 100% per patient reporting. Completion rates were 79% for INH and 100% for RIF. No fulminant hepatic failure or death was observed.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of latent tuberculosis in liver transplant patients during their candidacy with INH or RIF appears to be a safe, viable option, if carefully monitored for adverse effects and liver enzymes.

Antituberculosis drugs and hepatotoxicity

Isoniazid, pyrazinamide and rifampicin have hepatotoxic potential, and can lead to such reactions during antituberculosis chemotherapy. Most of the hepatotoxic reactions are dose-related; some are, however, caused by drug hypersensitivity. The immunogenetics of antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity, especially inclusive of acetylaor phenotype polymorphism, have been increasingly unravelled. Other principal clinical risk factors for hepatotoxicity are old age, malnutrition, alcoholism, HIV infection, as well as chronic hepatitis B and C infections. Drug-induced hepatic dysfunction usually occurs within the initial few weeks of the intensive phase of antituberculosis chemotherapy. Vigilant clinical (including patient education on symptoms of hepatitis) and biochemical monitoring are mandatory to improve the outcomes of patients with drug-induced hepatotoxicity during antituberculosis chemotherapy. Some fluoroquinolones like ofloxacin/levofloxacin may have a role in constituting non-hepatotoxic drug regimens for management of tuberculosis (TB) in the presence of hepatic dysfunction. Isoniazid administration is currently the standard therapy for latent TB infection. Rifamycins like rifampicin or rifapentine, alone or in combination with isoniazid, may also be considered as alternatives, pending accumulation of further clinical data. During treatment of latent TB infection, regular follow up is essential to ensure adherence to therapy and facilitate clinical monitoring for hepatic dysfunction. Monitoring of liver chemistry is also required for those patients at risk of drug-induced hepatotoxicity.

An official ATS statement: hepatotoxicity of antituberculosis therapy

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a problem of increasing significance, but has been a long-standing concern in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) infection. The liver has a central role in drug metabolism and detoxification, and is consequently vulnerable to injury. The pathogenesis and types of DILI are presented, ranging from hepatic adaptation to hepatocellular injury. Knowledge of the metabolism of anti-TB medications and of the mechanisms of TB DILI is incomplete. Understanding of TB DILI has been hampered by differences in study populations, definitions of hepatotoxicity, and monitoring and reporting practices. Available data regarding the incidence and severity of TB DILI overall, in selected demographic groups, and in those coinfected with HIV or hepatitis B or C virus are presented. Systematic steps for prevention and management of TB DILI are recommended. These include patient and regimen selection to optimize benefits over risks, effective staff and patient education, ready access to care for patients, good communication among providers, and judicious use of clinical and biochemical monitoring. During treatment of latent TB infection (LTBI) alanine aminotransferase (ALT) monitoring is recommended for those who chronically consume alcohol, take concomitant hepatotoxic drugs, have viral hepatitis or other preexisting liver disease or abnormal baseline ALT, have experienced prior isoniazid hepatitis, are pregnant or are within 3 months postpartum. During treatment of TB disease, in addition to these individuals, patients with HIV infection should have ALT monitoring. Some experts recommend biochemical monitoring for those older than 35 years. Treatment should be interrupted and, generally, a modified or alternative regimen used for those with ALT elevation more than three times the upper limit of normal (ULN) in the presence of hepatitis symptoms and/or jaundice, or five times the ULN in the absence of symptoms. Priorities for future studies to develop safer treatments for LTBI and for TB disease are presented.

Antituberculous therapy-induced fulminant hepatic failure: successful treatment with liver transplantation and nonstandard antituberculous therapy

Standard antituberculous therapy including isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide is widely used for the treatment of active tuberculosis. Its most important side effect is hepatotoxicity, ranging from asymptomatic transaminitis to fulminant hepatic failure. A 19-year-old woman was admitted to our unit due to jaundice and unconsciousness. According to her past medical history, she was diagnosed as having extrapulmonary tuberculosis and had been prescribed standard antituberculous therapy. The patient became icteric and unconscious on the fourth day after therapy initiation. She was diagnosed with drug-induced acute fulminant hepatic failure and underwent living-related liver transplantation. Nonhepatotoxic antituberculous therapy (cycloserine, ciprofloxacin, streptomycin, and ethambutol) and low-dose immunosuppressive therapy were started after transplantation. Currently the patient is very well with normal graft function 42 months after transplantation. Here we report a case of a patient with acute fulminant hepatic failure caused by isoniazid, rifampicin, or both, who was successfully treated with living-related liver transplantation and a relatively less hepatotoxic antituberculous therapy. In conclusion, liver transplantation is a feasible therapy for individuals with standard antituberculous therapy-induced hepatic failure. Nonhepatotoxic antituberculous therapy may achieve control of active tuberculosis in such individuals after transplantation.

Neuropsychiatric complications after liver transplantation: role of immunosuppression and hepatitis C

Neuropsychiatric complications are an important source of morbidity following orthotopic liver transplantation. Etiology of liver disease and type of immunosuppression are possible related factors. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of neuropsychiatric complications after liver transplantation, the role of immunosuppression, and the association between these and specific liver diseases such as hepatitis C. One hundred twenty-eight patients with liver transplants were studied. Tacrolimus was the primary immunosuppressant in 101 patients and cyclosporine in 27 patients. Seventy-five complications in 49 patients (38.2%) were reported. In 43 patients, the etiology was associated with immunosuppression: 36 on tacrolimus and 7 on cyclosporine (P = 0.34). Seventeen and four-tenths percent of patients with hepatitis C and 4.6% of patients without hepatitis C developed depression (P = 0.02). There is no difference between types of primary immunosuppression and neuropsychiatric complications. There is a significantly greater incidence of depression in patients transplanted for hepatitis C.

Bacterial and Mycobacterial Pneumonia in Transplant Recipients

Bacteria and myobacteria are important pulmonary pathogens in transplant recipients and are the focus of this article. Although considerable overlap exists, there are significant differences in the epidemiology and clinical presentation of these organisms in solid organ transplant (SOT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. The first section of this article focuses on infections in SOT recipients (predominantly heart, liver, lung, and kidney transplant recipients), and the latter addresses these infections in HSCT recipients.

Is liver transplantation advisable for isoniazid fulminant hepatitis in active extrapulmonary tuberculosis?

Antituberculous treatment is a well-known cause of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). This could lead to liver transplantation as the only possible treatment, which on the other hand could be contraindicated due to active tuberculosis. The risk of aggressive dissemination of the disease after transplantation is not clearly determined by the current second-line antituberculous therapies. We report a case of vertebral tuberculosis treated with rifampin, isoniazid and pyrazinamide. He developed an FHF that was treated with urgent liver transplantation. Despite the immunosuppression, the disease was well controlled with ciprofloxacin, ethambutol and streptomycin and the patient is in good health 23 months after transplantation. In conclusion, active extrapulmonary tuberculosis should perhaps be considered for liver transplantation when FHF develops due to anti-tuberculous drugs.

Resection of a Pulmonary Lesion After Liver Transplantation: Report of a Case

A 44-year-old Chinese-Indonesian man who underwent living-donor liver transplantation with a right liver graft presented 4 months later with a cough and fever. Chest X-ray showed a nodular shadow in the apex of the left lung, which was diagnosed as pulmonary tuberculosis. After 1 week of antituberculous chemotherapy, we performed a left upper lobectomy. Postoperative antituberculous chemotherapy, consisting of isoniazid (300 mg/day) and rifampin (450 mg/day), was continued for 4 months, and there has been no sign of recurrence for 1 year since the thoracotomy. This case supports the feasibility of surgery for localized pulmonary tuberculosis soon after transplantation.

Pulmonary complications of solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

The ability to successfully transplant solid organs and hematopoietic stem cells represents one of the landmark medical achievements of the twentieth century. Solid organ transplantation has emerged as the standard of care for select patients with severe vital organ dysfunction and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation has become an important treatment option for patients with a wide spectrum of nonmalignant and malignant hematologic disorders, genetic disorders, and solid tumors. Although advances in surgical techniques, immunosuppressive management, and prophylaxis and treatment of infectious diseases have made long-term survival an achievable goal, transplant recipients remain at high risk for developing a myriad of serious and often life-threatening complications. Paramount among these are pulmonary complications, which arise as a consequence of the immunosuppressed status of the recipient as well as from such factors as the initial surgical insult of organ transplantation, the chemotherapy and radiation conditioning regimens that precede hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and alloimmune mechanisms mediating host-versus-graft and graft-versus-host responses. As the population of transplant recipients continues to grow and as their care progressively shifts from the university hospital to the community setting, knowledge of the pulmonary complications of transplantation is increasingly germane to the contemporary practice of pulmonary medicine.