Long-term Prognosis and Recurrence of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis After Liver Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience. Transplant Direct. 2017;3:e334. [PMID: 29536035 PMCID: PMC5828688 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000000751]

Autoimmune Biliary Diseases: A Review of Primary Biliary Cholangitis, Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, Immunoglobulin G4-Related Sclerosing Cholangitis, and Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune and immune-mediated biliary diseases represent a small proportion of biliary disorders, but owing to their progressive nature, lead to end-stage liver disease, necessitating liver transplantation for definitive management.

Recurrence of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and De Novo Cholangiocarcinoma After Liver Transplantation: Results From the Brazilian Cholestasis Consortium

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) has been shown to recur after liver transplantation (LT). Some studies have identified certain clinical and laboratory variables associated with an increased risk for recurrent PSC (rPSC) in Caucasians. Furthermore, de novo cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) has been reported anecdotally in patients with rPSC. This study aims to assess the prevalence of rPSC, identify its associated risk factors, and investigate the occurrence of de novo CCA in a highly admixed population from Brazil.

METHODS

All patients submitted to LT for PSC enrolled in the Brazilian Cholestasis Study Group database were retrospectively reviewed for the occurrence of rPSC and de novo CCA.

RESULTS

Ninety-six (58 males, mean age 32 ± 13 years) patients with PSC underwent LT. After 90 (39-154) months of follow-up (FU), rPSC was observed in 29 (30%) subjects. There were no significant associations between rPSC and age, gender, concurrent or de novo inflammatory bowel disease, MELD score at the time of LT or allograft rejection. The only factor associated with an increased risk of disease recurrence was time after LT. Although survival was decreased in patients who developed rPSC, this difference was not significant. Only one female patient developed de novo CCA after rPSC, 11 years after LT.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent PSC was observed in one-third of PSC LT patients in Brazil and was associated with longer time after LT. Despite its frequency, rPSC was not associated with a higher risk of graft loss or a significant reduction in posttransplant survival.

The role of donor sex on the post-liver transplant outcomes in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) can result in hepatic decompensation and require liver transplantation (LT). This study investigates the effect of the sex of the donor and recipient as a prognostic risk factor for adverse outcomes after LT in patients with PSC.

METHODS

UNOS registry was used to select LT patients with PSC from 1987 to 2019. The study cohort was stratified based on the sex of the recipient and further subdivided based on the sex of the donor. The primary endpoints of this study were all-cause mortality and graft failure, which were evaluated using a sequential Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

This study included 2829 patients; 906 female recipients were transplanted from 441 male donors and 465 female donors. 1923 male recipients were transplanted from 1194 male donors and 729 female donors. Within the mismatch analyses, the male-to-male recipients also had a significantly reduced hazard ratio of graft failure compared to female-to-male transplants [aHR 0.51, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33-0.79, P  = 0.003]. No difference in graft failure was observed in the mismatched female recipient subgroup. The mismatched male recipient group also showed a decreased hazard ratio of mortality from graft rejection and respiratory causes. No differences in specific mortality causes were identified in the mismatched female recipient group.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated an increase in the risk of graft failure and mortality secondary to graft failure in male recipients of female donor livers. No differences in mortality or graft failure were identified in female recipients of male livers.

An overview of recent treatment options for primary sclerosing cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic hepatic dysfunction characterized by inflammatory and tissue-degenerative strictures of the biliary tree, leading to cirrhosis and cholangiocarcinoma. The pathophysiological mechanisms involve immune-mediated responses. Numerous treatment modalities targeting the inflammatory aspects have been suggested, but a consensus on the best treatment option is lacking. This study aims to review the most up-to-date treatment options for PSC.

Longitudinal analysis of transplant candidates with primary sclerosing cholangitis in an Asian liver transplant center

BACKGROUND

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare disease in Asia, and few studies have investigated the disease in this ethnicity, particularly in wait-listed patients for liver transplantation (LT). We aimed to investigate the prognostic factors and outcomes of wait-listed patients with PSC in an Asian transplant center.

METHODS

Survival was retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Eighteen (10 male and 8 female) wait-listed patients with PSC, with a median age at diagnosis of 44.5 years, were included. Compared with men, women had significantly higher aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index scores (3.28 vs. 1.13; P  = 0.012) and bilirubin levels (7.68 vs. 4.03 mg/dl; P  = 0.043) and more often presented with decompensating events, including ascites [5 (63%) vs. 1 (10%); P  = 0.043] and splenomegaly [8 (100%) vs. 4 (40%); P  = 0.013]. Compared with the non-LT group, the LT group exhibited a superior survival rate for women ( P  = 0.004) but not for men. In the univariable analysis, significant risk factors associated with overall survival included malignancies with a hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of 5.53 (1.00-30.51) and esophageal varices (EV) [4.18 (1.05-16.61)], whereas female gender [25.00 (1.49-500.00)], LT [0.09 (0.01-0.80)] and EV [39.03 (2.92-521.96)] were indicated in the multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

For Asian wait-listed patients with PSC, EV and female gender were the risk factors related to overall survival, and LT was the protective factor. Our experiences suggested that LT brings more benefits in female patients. Strategies are needed to provide equivalent transplant benefits.

Main factors influencing long-term outcomes of liver transplantation in 2022

Liver transplant (LT) outcomes have markedly improved in the recent decades, even if long-term morbidity and mortality are still considerable. Most of late deaths are independent from graft function and different comorbidities, including complications of metabolic syndrome and de novo neoplasms, seem to play a key role in determining long-term outcomes in LT recipients. This review discusses the main factors associated with late mortality and suggests possible strategies to improve long-term management and follow-up after liver transplantation. In particular, the reduction of drug toxicity, the use of tools to identify high-risk patients, and setting up a multidisciplinary team also for long-term management of LT recipients may further improve survival after liver transplantation.

Concurrent inflammatory bowel disease and primary sclerosing cholangitis: a review of pre- and post-transplant outcomes and treatment options

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease which is associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in 70% of cases. It seems PSC/IBD is a distinct phenotype that is different from PSC, and IBD alone. Hence, we review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, natural course and management of PSC/IBD before and after LT for PSC. Extensive colitis, rectal sparing, backwash ileitis, and mild symptoms are the characteristics of IBD coexisting with PSC. Moreover, PSC patients with concurrent IBD have higher risk of cholangiocarcinoma, and colorectal neoplasia predominantly in right colon and at younger age. Therefore, it is essential to monitor these individuals continuously. It is interesting to note that the course of IBD (ulcerative colitis) after liver transplantation (LT) for PSC varies greatly, and some patients may develop worsening colitis after LT despite immunosuppressive regimens. As well, management of these patients was discussed in this review.

Good outcomes of living donor liver transplant in primary sclerosing cholangitis: an experience from North India

BACKGROUND

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease. In the absence of effective medical therapy, liver transplant is the definitive treatment for advanced stage. However, recurrence of PSC after liver transplant is of concern which can lead to graft failure and may require retransplant. There are limited data on outcomes of living donor liver transplant (LDLT) in PSC. Also, in LDLT as donors are genetically related there can be an increased risk of recurrence. We conducted this retrospective study to analyze the outcomes of LDLT in PSC at a tertiary liver transplant center in north India.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 3213 transplant recipients who underwent LDLT from January 2006 to May 2021. Of these 26 (0.80%) patients had PSC as indication for liver transplantation (PSC = 24, PSC-AIH overlap = 2). Data analysis was done to look for baseline demographics, clinical details, transplant outcomes, PSC recurrence, and survival.

RESULTS

Mean age of study group was 42 (± 13.8) years and 19 patients (73.1%) were males. All patients had decompensated cirrhosis at the time of transplant. Mean CTP score and MELD score were 9.5 (± 1.8) and 18.9 (± 7.1), respectively. Sixteen patients received modified right lobe graft, seven extended right lobe graft and five patients received left lateral graft. Median graft weight and mean graft to recipient weight ratio (GRWR) were 633.5 (IQR 473.5-633.5) grams and 1.23 (± 0.42), respectively. Most common biliary anastomosis was hepaticojejunostomy, done in 19 (73.1%) while duct to duct anastomosis was performed in 7 (26.9%) patients. Median follow-up was 96 (36-123) months. One patient had ulcerative colitis and none had cholangiocarcinoma. Two (7.7%) patients had bile leak during early post-transplant period. Three (11.1%) patients developed graft rejection and were managed successfully with steroid pulses. Three patients died during early post-transplant period while seven deaths occurred during long-term follow-up including one death due to COVID-19. Five (21.73%) patients had recurrence of PSC of which two patients had graft loss including one after retransplantation. The one year graft and patient survival rate was 88.5%.

CONCLUSION

LDLT can be performed in PSC with good long-term outcomes with a risk of PSC recurrence in about one-fifth patients.

Adult liver transplantation for the advanced clinical practitioner: an overview

Liver transplantation (LT) is a major surgical undertaking but, in a carefully selected population, it provides excellent outcomes in terms of prolongation of life and improvements in quality of life. This article outlines the processes of referral, assessment, operative course and post-transplant complications of LT, in the UK context. Specific consideration is also given to immunosuppressive medications and considerations around their prescription. The role of the advanced clinical practitioner (ACP) in primary or secondary care may focus on identifying potential candidates for transplantation and ensuring timely discussion and referral. Thus, a familiarity with eligibility criteria, and where to access this information, is important for all ACPs. Additionally, the increasing numbers of transplants performed in the UK mean that there is a large population of post-transplant patients in the wider community. These patients may present to healthcare services with a variety of issues relating to their LT, where early recognition and treatment has the potential to have major impacts on patient, or graft, function and longevity. Due to this, early discussions with specialist transplant centres is advised.

Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Liver Transplant Recipients With Recurrent Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an indication for liver transplantation, but recurrence after liver transplantation is associated with poor outcomes often requiring repeat transplantation. We investigated whether autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) could be used to stop progression of recurrent PSC and promote operational tolerance.

METHODS

Twelve patients with recurrent PSC were fully evaluated and 5 were selected for aHSCT. Autologous hematopoietic stem cells were collected, purified by CD34 immunomagnetic selection, and cryopreserved. Immunoablation using busulfan, cyclophosphamide, and rabbit antithymocyte globulin was followed by aHSCT. The primary endpoint of the study was the establishment of operational tolerance defined as lack of biochemical, histologic, and clinical evidence of rejection while off immunosuppression at 2 y post-aHSCT.

RESULTS

Two of the 5 patients achieved operational tolerance with no clinical or histologic evidence of PSC progression or allorejection. A third patient developed sinusoidal obstruction syndrome following aHSCT requiring repeat liver transplantation but has no evidence of PSC recurrence while on sirolimus monotherapy now >3 y after aHSCT. A fourth patient was weaned off immunosuppression but died 212 d after aHSCT from pericardial constriction. A fifth patient died from multiorgan failure. Immunosuppression-free allograft acceptance was associated with deletion of T-cell clones, loss of autoantibodies, and increases in regulatory T cells, transitional B cells, and programmed cell death protein-1 expressing CD8+ T cells in the 2 long-term survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

Although operational tolerance occurred following aHSCT, the high morbidity and mortality observed render this specific protocol unsuitable for clinical adoption.

Clinical Practice Guidelines for Liver Transplantation in Saudi Arabia

The demand for liver transplantation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is associated with the country's high burden of liver disease. Trends in the epidemiology of liver transplantation indications among recipients in KSA have changed over 20 years. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis has eclipsed the hepatitis C virus in the country due to the effective treatment strategies for HCV. Risk factors for NASH, like type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and hyperlipidemia, are becoming a major concern and a leading indication for liver transplantation in the KSA. There is also a significantly increased prevalence and incidence of genetic adult familial liver diseases in KSA. New immunosuppressive agents and preservation solutions, improved surgical capabilities, and early disease recognition and management have increased the success rate of liver transplant outcome but concerns about the side effects of immunosuppressive therapy can jeopardise long-term survival outcomes. Despite this, indications for liver transplantation continue to increase, resulting in ongoing challenges to maximize the number of potential donors and reduce patient mortality rate while expecting to get transplanted. The Saudi Center of Organ Transplant is the recognized National Organ Donation Agency for transplantation, which renders important support for procurement and allocation of organs. This guidance document aims to help healthcare providers in managing patients in the liver transplant setting.

Recurrent Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Current Understanding, Management, and Future Directions

Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) constitute 5 to 15% of patients listed for liver transplantation worldwide. Although post-transplant outcomes are favorable, recurrent PSC (rPSC) occurs in an important subset of patients, with higher prevalence rates reported with increasing time from transplant. Given its association with poor graft outcomes and risk of retransplant, effort has been made to understand rPSC, its pathophysiology, and risk factors. This review covers these facets of rPSC and focuses on implicated risk factors including pretransplant recipient characteristics, inflammatory bowel-disease-related factors, and donor-specific and transplant-specific factors. Confirming a diagnosis of rPSC requires thoughtful consideration of alternative etiologies so as to ensure confidence in diagnosis, management, subsequent risk assessment, and counseling for patients. Unfortunately, no cure exists for rPSC; however, future large-scale efforts are underway to better characterize the natural history of rPSC and its associated risk factors with hopes of identifying potential key targets for novel therapies.

Management of Autoimmune Liver Diseases after Liver Transplantation

Autoimmune liver diseases are characterized by immune-mediated inflammation and eventual destruction of the hepatocytes and the biliary epithelial cells. They can progress to irreversible liver damage requiring liver transplantation. The post-liver transplant goals of treatment include improving the recipient’s survival, preventing liver graft-failure, and decreasing the recurrence of the disease. The keystone in post-liver transplant management for autoimmune liver diseases relies on identifying which would be the most appropriate immunosuppressive maintenance therapy. The combination of a steroid and a calcineurin inhibitor is the current immunosuppressive regimen of choice for autoimmune hepatitis. A gradual withdrawal of glucocorticoids is also recommended. On the other hand, ursodeoxycholic acid should be initiated soon after liver transplant to prevent recurrence and improve graft and patient survival in primary biliary cholangitis recipients. Unlike the previously mentioned autoimmune diseases, there are not immunosuppressive or disease-modifying agents available for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. However, colectomy and annual colonoscopy are key components during the post-liver transplant period.

Recent advances in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis

Introduction: PSC is a rare liver disease that leads frequently to cirrhosis and need for liver transplantation. No medical treatment is of proven value. Liver transplantation is the only curative therapy available. There is a big medical need to find medical therapy that can alter the natural history of the disease.Areas covered: The authors highlight advances in PSC, based on recent literature retrieved from PubMed until September 2020 regarding both medical and endoscopic biliary therapy.Future possibilities for treatment of PSC are discussed.Expert opinion: Biliary endoscopy is the cornerstone in the treatment of dominant strictures. Single-user peroral cholangioscopy is an emerging modality. Balloon dilatation therapy is the treatment of choice of dominant strictures. The most promising medical therapies showing efficacy in phase II trials are nor-Ursodeoxycholic acid, obethicolic acid, the non-steroidal FXR agonist Cilofexor and Aldafermin, a synthetic analogue of FGF-19. Antibiotics, particularly vancomycin have shown potential benefits, particularly in children but phase III studies are lacking. In observational studies of effects of biological therapy in patients with IBD/PSC adalimumab was associated with reduction in ALP. Results of liver transplantation are favorable but recurrence can be of clinical relevance particularly in patients transplanted before the age of 40.

Donor age (≥45 years) and reduced immunosuppression are associated with the recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis after liver transplantation - a multicenter retrospective study

The present study investigated the possible risk factors, including relationship/HLA matching between donor and recipient, and immunosuppressive therapies on the recurrence of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) after liver transplantation (LT). Subjects were 197 recipients of LT for PSC, among whom 180 surviving more than 1 year after LT were further analyzed for risk factors of recurrence. The 5- and 10-year patient- and graft survival rates were 83% and 68%, and 71% and 62%, respectively. The overall PSC recurrence rate was 25% with a 5- and 10-year graft survival rate of 34% and 18%, which was significantly lower than the survival rate of those without recurrence (P < 0.001). Univariate analysis identified the following as risk factors for recurrence: donor age (P < 0.001), cyclosporine use (P = 0.012), mono or no immunosuppressive agent (P < 0.001), postoperative biliary complication (P < 0.001), and active intestinal bowel disease after LT (P < 0.001). Among these factors, donor age ≥45 years [hazard ratio (HR), 1.65; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21-2.69; P = 0.003] and mono or no immunosuppressive agent 1-year after LT (HR, 2.38; 95% CI, 1.23-3.45; P = 0.011) were identified as independent risk factors in the final multivariate Cox regression model. The results were similar in sub-analysis for ABO-identical/compatible adult living donor LT cases.

Novel case of percutaneous access of afferent limb of Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy for biliary decompression and jejunoplasty in a patient with primary sclerosing cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a rare condition characterized by multifocal fibrotic bile duct strictures and progressive liver disease. Due to its recurrence even after liver transplantation, an alternative surgical procedure, the Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy, is practiced with positive outcomes. We present a case of a 55-year-old female with history of primary sclerosing cholangitis and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy approximately 25 years ago who presented to the emergency department with acute cholangitis. Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a dilated loop of small bowel in the right upper quadrant and mid-abdomen with normal bile duct caliber. Interventional radiology was consulted for percutaneous biliary and Roux limb decompression. Ultrasound was utilized to identify and percutaneously access the dilated afferent jejunal limb. With the help of a T-fastener, the jejunal loop was tacked against the anterior abdominal wall and the system was successfully decompressed with a drain left in place. On follow-up, delayed contrast transit through the Roux limb and a stricture in the native jejunum distal to the anastomosis was identified. Hampering of the downstream flow of bile was noted and this was determined to be the likely cause of the initial episode of cholangitis. The strictured bowel segment was balloon-dilated by interventional radiology. Repeat injection of contrast revealed significant improvement in the caliber of the stenotic segment. At 3 weeks' postprocedure, a follow-up enteroscopy of the bowel was performed through the same percutaneous access site. Using this technique, the patient avoided a major invasive surgical procedure.

Activity of Inflammatory Bowel Disease After Liver Transplantation for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Predicts Poorer Clinical Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The impact of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) activity on long-term outcomes after liver transplantation (LT) for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is unknown. We examined the impact of post-LT IBD activity on clinically significant outcomes.

METHODS

One hundred twelve patients undergoing LT for PSC from 2 centers were studied for a median of 7 years. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to their IBD activity after LT: no IBD, mild IBD, and moderate to severe IBD. Patients were classified as having moderate to severe IBD if they met at least 1 of 3 criteria: (i) Mayo 2 or 3 colitis or Simple Endoscopic Score-Crohn's Disease ≥7 on endoscopy; (ii) acute flare of IBD necessitating steroid rescue therapy; or (iii) post-LT colectomy for medically refractory IBD.

RESULTS

Moderate to severe IBD at any time post-transplant was associated with a higher risk of Clostridium difficile infection (27% vs 8% mild IBD vs 8% no IBD; P = 0.02), colorectal cancer/high-grade dysplasia (21% vs 3% both groups; P = 0.004), post-LT colectomy (33% vs 3% vs 0%) and rPSC (64% vs 18% vs 20%; P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that moderate to severe IBD increased the risk of both rPSC (relative risk [RR], 8.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.81-27.59; P < 0.001) and colorectal cancer/high-grade dysplasia (RR, 10.45; 95% CI, 3.55-22.74; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate to severe IBD at any time post-LT is associated with a higher risk of rPSC and colorectal neoplasia compared with mild IBD and no IBD. Patients with no IBD and mild IBD have similar post-LT outcomes. Future prospective studies are needed to determine if more intensive treatment of moderate to severe IBD improves long-term outcomes in patients undergoing LT for PSC.

Imaging post liver transplantation part II: biliary complications

Biliary complications post liver transplantation are a significant source of morbidity and mortality and early recognition is paramount to the long-term success of the liver graft. Part II of this series will focus on liver transplant biliary anatomy, including the blood supply to the biliary system and potential problems if it is interrupted. The imaging rationale for investigating suspected biliary complications, potential pitfalls, and treatment options will be discussed. The various biliary complications will be illustrated using a collection of cases.

Risk factors for recurrent autoimmune liver diseases after liver transplantation: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Autoimmune liver disease (ALD) is a chronic liver disease caused by immune dysfunction in the body. However, no causative or curative medical treatment with proven efficacy exists to cure ALDs, and liver transplantation (LT) remains the only effective treatment available. However, the problem of recurrence of ALDs (rALDs) still remains after LT, which seriously affects the survival rate of the patients. Therefore, clinicians need to be aware of the risk factors affecting rALDs after LT. Therefore, this meta-analysis aims to define the risk factors for rALDs, which include the recurrence of primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis and autoimmune hepatitis.

METHODS

A systematic search in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library and Web of Science databases was performed from 1980 to 2019. The inclusion criteria were risk factors for developing rALDs after LT. However, case series, case reports, reviews, meta-analysis and studies only including human immunodeficiency virus cases, children, and pregnant patients were excluded.

RESULTS

The electronic database search yielded 1728 results. Sixty-three retrospective cohort studies met the inclusion criteria and 13 were included in the meta-analysis. The final cohort included 5077 patients, and among them, 21.96% developed rALDs. Colectomy before LT, HR 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.37-0.96), cholangiocarcinoma, HR 3.42 (95% CI: 1.88-6.21), multiple episodes of acute cellular rejection, HR 2.07 (95% CI: 1.27-3.37), model for end-stage liver disease score, HR 1.05 (95% CI: 1.02-1.08), use of mycophenolate mofetil, HR 1.46 (95% CI: 1.00-2.12) and the use of cyclosporin A, HR 0.69 (95% CI: 0.49-0.97) were associated with the risk of rprimary sclerosing cholangitis. In addition, the use of tacrolimus, HR 1.73 (95% CI: 1.00-2.99) and cyclosporin A, HR 0.59 (95% CI: 0.39-0.88) were associated with the risk of rALD.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple risk factors for rALDs were identified, such as colectomy before LT, cholangiocacinoma, multiple episodes of acute cellular rejection, model for end-stage liver disease score, and especially the use of mycophenolate mofetil, cyclosporin A and tacrolimus.

Geoepidemiologic variation in outcomes of primary sclerosing cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic, progressive, hepatobiliary disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the intra- and extra-hepatic bile ducts. Its natural history is one that generally progresses towards cirrhosis, liver failure, cholangiocarcinoma, and ultimately disease-related death, with a median liver transplantation-free survival time of approximately 15-20 years. However, despite its lethal nature, PSC remains a heterogenous disease with significant variability in outcomes amongst different regions of the world. There are also many regions where the outcomes of PSC have not been studied, limiting the overall understanding of this disease worldwide. In this review, we present the geoepidemiologic variations in outcomes of PSC, with a focus on survival pre- and post-liver transplantation as well as the concurrence of inflammatory bowel disease and hepatobiliary neoplasia.

An update on treatment options for primary sclerosing cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic liver disease defined by strictures of the biliary tree which could ultimately lead to liver cirrhosis and cholangiocarcinoma. Although the exact underlying etiology of this disorder is not fully understood, the pathology is believed to be caused by immune mediated mechanisms. Growing body of evidence suggests several treatment modalities mainly focusing on the inflammation aspect of this disorder. However, there is still no consensus regarding the best treatment option for these patients. Thus, the present study aimed to review the current treatment options for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis.

Good Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Undergoing Living Donor Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive cholestatic disorder with liver transplantation (LT) being the only definitive treatment in end-stage disease. Recurrence of PSC after LT is a significant concern which can lead to graft loss. The aim of this study is to find out the disease recurrence and long-term outcome after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in PSC.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of all patients undergoing LDLT for PSC at our centre. Of 2268 adult LTs from August 2004 to July 2018, 32 (1.4%) patients underwent LDLT for PSC including 6 with PSC and autoimmune hepatitis overlap. The data were reviewed to look for PSC recurrence, complications, and overall survival. All patients received tacrolimus-based immunosuppression. Data are shown as number, percentage, median, and interquartile range (IQR).

RESULT

The mean age of 32 LDLT recipients was 44 ± 12 years (males 22, females 10). At the time of transplantation, the mean child's score was 9 ± 1.6 and model for end-stage liver disease score was 18.9 ± 6.4. Ulcerative colitis was seen in 7 patients and none had cholangiocarcinoma. Majority of patients (n = 29) received right lobe graft and all but 3 underwent hepaticojejunostomy for biliary reconstruction. PSC recurrence was seen in 6 (20%) patients during a median follow-up of 59 (29-101) months, after exclusion of 2 patients with early mortality. A total of five patients died during follow-up, and one of these deaths was due to PSC recurrence. There were 2 perioperative deaths due to sepsis and 3 deaths on follow-up (sepsis in 2 and PSC recurrence in 1).

CONCLUSION

LDLT can be performed in PSC with good overall long-term outcomes.

Liver Disease and Hemostasis (Review) Part 2. Cholestatic Liver Disease and Hemostasis

The presence or development of liver disorders can significantly complicate the course of critical illness and terminal conditions. Systemic hemostatic disorders are common in Intensive Care Units patients with cholestatic liver diseases, so the study of the mechanisms of their development can contribute to the understanding of the development of multiorgan failure in critical illness.

The review discusses current data on changes in hemostatic parameters in patients with cholestatic liver diseases, proposes a mechanism for the development of such disorders, which involve interactions of phospholipids with platelet and endotheliocyte membranes. It is suggested that a trend for thrombosis in patients with cholestatic liver disease is due to increased accumulation of bile acids in the systemic circulation. Available data demonstrate that the antiphospholipid syndrome may predispose to the formation of blood clots due to alterations of phospholipid composition of membranes of platelets and vascular endothelial cells by circulating antiphospholipid antibodies. Clarifying the mechanisms contributing to changes of the blood coagulation system parameters in liver disorders will aid to development of optimal correction of hemostatic disorders in patients with chronic liver diseases.

Recurrence of disease following organ transplantation in autoimmune liver disease and systemic lupus erythematosus

Disease recurrence after organ transplantation associated with graft failure is a major clinical challenge in autoimmune diseases. Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) are the three most common (autoimmune liver diseases) ALD for which liver transplantation (LT) is the most effective treatment option for patients with end-stage diseases. Although the 5- and 10-year survival rates of post-LT patients are remarkable (80-84% and 71-79% in PBC, 73-87% and 58-83% in PSC, 76-79% and 67-77% respectively in AIH patients), post-LT disease recurrence is not uncommon. Here, we summarize literature findings on disease recurrence of these ALD with emphasis on the incidence, risk factors and impact on long-term outcome. We noted that the incidence of disease recurrence varies between studies, which ranges from 53% to 10.9% in PBC, 8.2% to 44.7% in PSC and 7% to 42% in AIH. The variations are likely due to differences in study design, such as sample size, duration of studies and follow up time. This is further compounded by the lack of precise clinical diagnosis criteria and biomarkers of disease recurrence in these ALD, variation in post-LT treatment protocols to prevent disease recurrence and a multitude of risk factors associated with these ALD. While recurrence of PBC and AIH does not significantly impact long term outcome including overall survival, recurrent PSC patients often require another LT. Renal transplantation, like LT, is the treatment of choice in patients with end-stage lupus nephritis. While calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) and immunosuppressive drugs have improved the survival rate, post-transplant recurrence of lupus nephritis from surveillance-biopsy proven lupus nephritis range from 30% to 44%. On the other hand, recurrence of post-transplant lupus nephritis from registry survey analysis were only 1.1% to 2.4%. In general, risk factors associated with an increased frequency of post-transplant recurrence of autoimmune diseases are not clearly defined. Large scale multi-center studies are needed to further define guidelines for the diagnosis and clinical management to minimize disease recurrence and improve outcomes of post-transplant patients.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Clinical Update

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic disorder of the liver, with strictures in the bile ducts leading to cirrhosis of the liver in a proportion of patients. PSC is commonly associated with inflammatory bowel disease and increased risk of cholangiocarcinoma, gall bladder cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Medical therapies are primarily aimed at symptom management and disease-modifying therapies are limited. Endoscopic therapies are used in patients with dominant strictures and liver transplantation is a last resort. In this article, the authors aim to comprehensively review the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of PSC with emphasis on risk of malignancies and management of PSC. The authors also survey the advances in pathogenesis understanding and novel medical therapies for PSC.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: risk factors for recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis after liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

After liver transplantation primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), the condition returns in the transplanted liver in a subset of patients (recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis, rPSC).

AIM

To define risk factors for rPSC.

METHODS

We searched Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane library for articles published until March 2018. Studies addressing risk factors for developing rPSC were eligible for inclusion. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted using hazard ratios (HR) as effect measure. Study quality was evaluated with the Newcastle Ottawa scale. Statistical analysis was performed using Cochrane Review Manager.

RESULTS

The electronic database search yielded 449 results. Twenty-one retrospective cohort studies met the inclusion criteria for the review; 14 were included in the meta-analysis. The final cohort included 2159 patients (age range 31-49 years, 68.8% male), of whom 17.7% developed rPSC. Colectomy before liver transplantation, HR 0.65 (95% CI: 0.42-0.99), cholangiocarcinoma before liver transplantation, HR 2.42 (95% CI: 1.20-4.86), inflammatory bowel disease, HR 1.73 (95% CI: 1.17-2.54), donor age, HR 1.24 (95% CI 1.0-1.45) per ten years, MELD score, HR 1.05 (95% CI: 1.02-1.08) per point and acute cellular rejection, HR of 1.94 (95% CI: 1.32-2.83) were associated with the risk of rPSC.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple risk factors for rPSC were identified. Colectomy before liver transplantation reduced the risk of rPSC.

Risk of recurrence of primary sclerosing cholangitis after liver transplantation is associated with de novo inflammatory bowel disease

AIM

To evaluate risk factors for primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) recurrence (rPSC) after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in patients with well-preserved colons.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the medical records of all patients transplanted for PSC in our center between July 1994 and May 2015 and selected 47 with follow-up of at least 60 mo for further analysis based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. rPSC was confirmed by magnetic resonance or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and liver biopsy. All patients were evaluated by protocolary pre-OLT colonoscopy with randomized mucosal biopsies. Colonoscopy was repeated annually after OLT. Both organ donors and recipients were human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typed by serological and/or DNA methods. All input data were thoroughly analyzed employing relevant statistical methods.

RESULTS

Altogether, 31 men and 16 women with a median (range) age of 36 (15-68) years at the time of OLT and a median follow-up of 122 (60-249) mo were included. rPSC was confirmed in 21/47 (44.7%) of patients, a median 63 (12-180) mo after transplantation. De novo colitis [rPSC in 11/12, P ≤ 0.05, hazard ratio (HR): 4.02, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.58-10.98] and history of acute cellular rejection (rPSC in 14/25, P ≤ 0.05; HR: 2.66, 95%CI: 1.03-7.86) showed strong positive associations with rPSC. According to the univariate analysis, overlapping features of autoimmune hepatitis (rPSC in 5/5, P ≤ 0.05) and HLA-DRB1*07 in the donor (rPSC in 10/15, P ≤ 0.05) represent other potential risk factors for rPSC, while the HLA-DRB1*04 (rPSC in 0/6, P ≤ 0.05), HLA-DQB1*03 (rPSC in 1/11, P ≤ 0.05), and HLA-DQB1*07 (rPSC in 0/7, P ≤ 0.05) recipient alleles may have protective roles.

CONCLUSION

De novo colitis and acute cellular rejection are clinical conditions significantly predisposed towards recurrence of PSC after liver transplantation.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis in children versus adults: lessons for the clinic

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic disorder that presents with multifocal biliary strictures. PSC has a variable course but often leads to progressive liver disease, and most patients will eventually require liver transplantation. PSC has a strong association with inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune liver disease. Areas covered: The objective of this article is to compare and contrast the clinical features and natural history of PSC in children to adults. We performed a PubMed search of the English literature using keywords 'primary sclerosing cholangitis', 'PSC', 'children', and 'pediatric.' Expert commentary: While certain features of PSC are similar in the pediatric and adult population, there are unique features of pediatric PSC. More longitudinal studies are needed to better understand the natural history of pediatric PSC. It is conceivable that treatment for PSC that will alter the course of disease may become available in the future.

Does colectomy affect the progression of primary sclerosing cholangitis? A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

The aim of this systematic review was to determine if the human colon, through the lower gut-liver axis, drives PSC activity by assessing the progression of the disease in patients with and without colectomy for colonic disease.

BACKGROUND

The gut-liver axis is involved in the pathogenesis of liver disease. Abnormal immune-mediated responses to intestinal microbiome are implicated in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) however the mechanisms remain poorly understood. Currently, no single animal model recapitulates all attributes of PSC in humans and this limits further studies of gut-liver interactions.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, Medline, and Scopus was performed for articles that contained the terms "colectomy" or "bowel resection" AND "primary sclerosing cholangitis" up to 15th April 2018. Articles were reviewed by 2 reviewers and raw data collated. A Forest plot was used to illustrate the effect of colectomy on subsequent liver transplantation for PSC. Linear regression was used to estimate mortality risk.

RESULTS

Colectomy appeared to have no effect on PSC progression, although high-quality studies were lacking. Rates of liver transplantation or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for PSC were not affected by colectomy (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.14 - 2.53, p=0.48). Mortality risk following colectomy in patients with PSC is 2.11% per year (95% CI 0.03% - 4.18%, p=0.032, R2 = 0.722).

CONCLUSION

Current evidence is limited but suggests colectomy does not affect the progression of PSC in patients with colonic disease. Pathogenic micro-organisms or antigens that drive PSC may not be limited to the lower gut.