Incidence and risk factors for infections after liver transplant: single-center experience at the University Hospital Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Colombia

Use of machine learning models for the prognostication of liver transplantation: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation (LT) is a life-saving intervention for patients with end-stage liver disease. However, the equitable allocation of scarce donor organs remains a formidable challenge. Prognostic tools are pivotal in identifying the most suitable transplant candidates. Traditionally, scoring systems like the model for end-stage liver disease have been instrumental in this process. Nevertheless, the landscape of prognostication is undergoing a transformation with the integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence models.

AIM

To assess the utility of ML models in prognostication for LT, comparing their per formance and reliability to established traditional scoring systems.

METHODS

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, we conducted a thorough and standardized literature search using the PubMed/MEDLINE database. Our search imposed no restrictions on publication year, age, or gender. Exclusion criteria encompassed non-English stu dies, review articles, case reports, conference papers, studies with missing data, or those exhibiting evident methodological flaws.

RESULTS

Our search yielded a total of 64 articles, with 23 meeting the inclusion criteria. Among the selected studies, 60.8% originated from the United States and China combined. Only one pediatric study met the criteria. Notably, 91% of the studies were published within the past five years. ML models consistently demonstrated satisfactory to excellent area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values (ranging from 0.6 to 1) across all studies, surpassing the performance of traditional scoring systems. Random forest exhibited superior predictive capa bilities for 90-d mortality following LT, sepsis, and acute kidney injury (AKI). In contrast, gradient boosting excelled in predicting the risk of graft-versus-host disease, pneumonia, and AKI.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the potential of ML models in guiding decisions related to allograft allocation and LT, marking a significant evolution in the field of prognostication.

Bacterial Infections After Liver Transplantation and the Role of Oral Selective Digestive Decontamination: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Bacterial infections are common after liver transplantation (LT) and cause serious morbidity and mortality. In our center, prolonged selective digestive decontamination (SDD) is the standard of care, which may lead to a reduced number and severity of bacterial infections. The aim of the current study was to investigate bacterial infection rates, the causative pathogens, localization, and the possible influence of SDD within the first year after LT.

METHODS

A retrospective single-center cohort study was performed. Patients within their first year after LT between 2012 and 2017 were included. Patients received SDD for 3 weeks immediately after LT. The type of infection, bacterial subtype, CSI classification, severity, and potential interventions were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-six patients were included in the study. Seventy-eight patients (41.9%) had a bacterial infection within the first year after LT. The most common types of infection were cholangitis (25.8%) and secondary infected abdominal fluid collections (25.3%). The most common bacteria were Gram-positive enterococcal- (36.5%) and Gram-negative enterobacterial species (34.2%). 35.5% of the infections occurred within the first month after LT, mainly caused by Gram-positive bacteria (76.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Cholangitis and infected abdominal fluid are the most common types of infection within one year after LT, mainly caused by enterococcal- and enterobacterial species. Within the first month after LT, infections were mostly caused by Gram-positive bacteria, which could be a consequence of protocol use of SDD. The results can be used for the choice of empirical antibiotic therapy based on the most common types of bacteria and the time frame after LT.

Long Term Complications of Immunosuppression Post Liver Transplant

Improvement in immunosuppression has led to a remarkable improvement in short-term and long-term outcomes post-liver transplant (LT). However, with improvements in long-term survival, complications related to immunosuppressive drugs, either directly or indirectly, have also increased. The adverse events could be drug-specific, class-specific, or generic. Calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine and tacrolimus) are the backbone of the immunosuppression after LT and the main culprit associated with most of the complications, including renal failure, post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM), and metabolic syndrome. Steroids are also implicated in the development of diabetes, osteoporosis, and metabolic syndrome post-LT. The development of infections and de novo malignancies (DNMs) is a generic effect linked to the overall cumulative immunosuppression. The development of these complications significantly hampers the quality of life and leads to increased morbidity and mortality post-LT. Thus, it is important to minimize the cumulative immunosuppression dose while simultaneously preventing allograft rejection. This review provides up-to-date, comprehensive knowledge of the complications of long-term immunosuppression post-LT along with associated risk factors and strategies to minimize the risk of complications.

Risk factors of early bacterial infection and analysis of bacterial composition, distribution and drug susceptibility after cadaveric liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

This study provided a theoretical basis for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of bacterial infection after liver transplantation through analyzing the pathogenic distribution, drug sensitivity and risk factors of bacterial infection after liver transplantation.

METHODS

We collected clinical data from 207 recipients undergoing liver transplantation of graft from donation after citizens' death donors in the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from January 2019 to December 2021 and analyzed the composition and distribution of bacterial pathogens, drug resistance and risk factors of infection.

RESULTS

A total of 90 bacterial infections occurred in 55 recipients within two months after liver transplantation, and the incidence of bacterial infection was 26.6% (55/207). The gram-negative bacteria (46/90, 51.1%) were more prevalent than gram-positive bacteria (44/90, 48.9%). Common sites of infection were the abdominal/biliary tract (26/90, 28.9%), lung (22/90, 22.4%) and urinary tract (22/90, 22.4%). Fourteen cases (6.8%) died after liver transplantation. Klebsiella pneumoniae (17/90, 18.9%) was the most frequent gram-negative bacteria causing infection in liver transplant recipients and 58.7%, 50%, 80.4% and 89.1% of gram-negative bacteria were sensitive to amikacin, minocycline, tigecycline and polymyxin B, respectively. The most common gram-positive bacteria was Enterococcus faecium (30/90, 33.3%) and 97.7%, 100%, 86.4%, 100% and 100% of gram-positive bacteria were sensitive to vancomycin, teicoplanin, daptomycin, tigecycline and linezolid, respectively. Univariate analysis revealed that bacterial infection was associated with female, age (≥ 50 years old), preoperative albumin (≤ 30 g/L), operation duration (≥ 400 min), intraoperative blood loss (≥ 3000 ml) and postoperative ventilator support. Binary Logistic regression analysis showed that female (OR = 3.149, 95% CI: 1.418-6.993, P = 0.005), operation duration (≥ 400 min) (OR = 2.393, 95% CI: 1.202-4.765, P = 0.013) and intraoperative blood loss (≥ 3000 ml) (OR = 2.052, 95% CI: 1.007-4.183, P = 0.048) were independent risk factors for bacterial infection after liver transplantation.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of early bacterial infection after liver transplantation was high, and the infection sites were mainly abdominal/biliary tract, respiratory tract and urinary tract. The most common pathogenic bacterium was gram-negative bacterium. Our study also identified several independent risk factors for bacterial infection after liver transplantation, including female gender, operation duration of 400 min or more, and intraoperative blood loss of 3000 ml or more. By addressing these risk factors, such as implementing strategies to optimize surgical procedures and minimize blood loss, healthcare professionals can work towards reducing the incidence of bacterial infections following liver transplantation.

The Role of Microbiota in Liver Transplantation and Liver Transplantation-Related Biliary Complications

Liver transplantation as a treatment option for end-stage liver diseases is associated with a relevant risk for complications. On the one hand, immunological factors and associated chronic graft rejection are major causes of morbidity and carry an increased risk of mortality due to liver graft failure. On the other hand, infectious complications have a major impact on patient outcomes. In addition, abdominal or pulmonary infections, and biliary complications, including cholangitis, are common complications in patients after liver transplantation and can also be associated with a risk for mortality. Thereby, these patients already suffer from gut dysbiosis at the time of liver transplantation due to their severe underlying disease, causing end-stage liver failure. Despite an impaired gut-liver axis, repeated antibiotic therapies can cause major changes in the gut microbiome. Due to repeated biliary interventions, the biliary tract is often colonized by several bacteria with a high risk for multi-drug resistant germs causing local and systemic infections before and after liver transplantation. Growing evidence about the role of gut microbiota in the perioperative course and their impact on patient outcomes in liver transplantation is available. However, data about biliary microbiota and their impact on infectious and biliary complications are still sparse. In this comprehensive review, we compile the current evidence for the role of microbiome research in liver transplantation with a focus on biliary complications and infections due to multi-drug resistant germs.

Invasive Fungal Breakthrough Infections under Targeted Echinocandin Prophylaxis in High-Risk Liver Transplant Recipients

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are frequent and outcome-relevant complications in the early postoperative period after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Recent guidelines recommend targeted antimycotic prophylaxis (TAP) for high-risk liver transplant recipients (HR-LTRs). However, the choice of antimycotic agent is still a subject of discussion. Echinocandins are increasingly being used due to their advantageous safety profile and the increasing number of non-albicans Candida infections. However, the evidence justifying their use remains rather sparse. Recently published data on breakthrough IFI (b-IFI) raise concerns about echinocandin efficacy, especially in the case of intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC), which is the most common infection site after OLT. In this retrospective study, we analyzed 100 adult HR-LTRs undergoing first-time OLT and receiving echinocandin prophylaxis between 2017 and 2020 in a tertiary university hospital. We found a breakthrough incidence of 16%, having a significant impact on postoperative complications, graft survival, and mortality. The reasons for this may be multifactorial. Among the pathogen-related factors, we identified the breakthrough of Candida parapsilosis in 11% of patients and one case of persistent IFI due to the development of a secondary echinocandin resistance of an IAC caused by Candida glabrata. Consequently, the efficacy of echinocandin prophylaxis in liver transplantation should be questioned. Further studies are necessary to clarify the matter of breakthrough infections under echinocandin prophylaxis.

Incidence of Invasive Fungal Infections in Liver Transplant Recipients under Targeted Echinocandin Prophylaxis

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are one of the most important infectious complications after liver transplantation, determining morbidity and mortality. Antimycotic prophylaxis may impede IFI, but a consensus on indication, agent, or duration is still missing. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the incidence of IFIs under targeted echinocandin antimycotic prophylaxis in adult high-risk liver transplant recipients. We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing a deceased donor liver transplantation at the Medical University of Innsbruck in the period from 2017 to 2020. Of 299 patients, 224 met the inclusion criteria. We defined patients as being at high risk for IFI if they had two or more prespecified risk factors and these patients received prophylaxis. In total, 85% (190/224) of the patients were correctly classified according to the developed algorithm, being able to predict an IFI with a sensitivity of 89%. Although 83% (90/109) so defined high-risk recipients received echinocandin prophylaxis, 21% (23/109) still developed an IFI. The multivariate analysis identified the age of the recipient (hazard ratio-HR = 0.97, p = 0.027), split liver transplantation (HR = 5.18, p = 0.014), massive intraoperative blood transfusion (HR = 24.08, p = 0.004), donor-derived infection (HR = 9.70, p < 0.001), and relaparotomy (HR = 4.62, p = 0.003) as variables with increased hazard ratios for an IFI within 90 days. The fungal colonization at baseline, high-urgency transplantation, posttransplant dialysis, bile leak, and early transplantation showed significance only in a univariate model. Notably, 57% (12/21) of the invasive Candida infections were caused by a non-albicans species, entailing a markedly reduced one-year survival. The attributable 90-day mortality rate of an IFI after a liver transplant was 53% (9/17). None of the patients with invasive aspergillosis survived. Despite targeted echinocandin prophylaxis, there is still a notable risk for IFI. Consequently, the prophylactic use of echinocandins must be critically questioned regarding the high rate of breakthrough infections, the increased occurrence of fluconazole-resistant pathogens, and the higher mortality rate in non-albicans Candida species. Adherence to the internal prophylaxis algorithms is of immense importance, bearing in mind the high IFI rates in case algorithms are not followed.

An Essential Guide for Managing Post-Liver Transplant Patients: What Primary Care Physicians Should Know

With long-term survival after liver transplantation becoming the rule, care for medical problems arising over time in liver-transplanted patients gained increasing importance. The most common causes of death occurring more than 1 year after liver transplantation are unrelated to liver diseases and facilitated by immunosuppressive treatments; examples are malignancies, renal failure, and cardiovascular, metabolic, and infectious diseases. Recipients receive life-long follow-up care at transplant centers, however, the increasing number of liver-transplanted patients is saturating the health care supply that transplant centers have to offer. Primary care physicians are increasingly exposed to liver-transplanted patients, even in the early periods after transplant, and an understanding of the most common risks and complications faced by these patients would enhance their care. This article reviews the long-term care of liver transplant recipients, emphasizing the key internal medicine-related issues that should be known by primary care physicians. A specific section is devoted to implementing strategies to involve these physicians in the long-term follow-up of liver-transplanted patients in close collaboration with transplant hepatologists.

Use of high-dose ciprofloxacin for recurrent biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteremia

Introduction

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a significant nosocomial pathogen. We aimed to assess the clinical success following high-dose ciprofloxacin for recurrent bacteremia from biofilm-forming multidrug resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in a liver transplanted patient.

Case report

A 55-year-old male had undergone liver transplantation and at day 10 he developed fever and dysuria. Two blood cultures became positive and were identified by Vitek2 (BioMérieux, USA) as K. pneumoniae. From his urine K. pneumoniae was isolated. Based on antimicrobial susceptibility (AST) panel (Vitek2), i.v. meropenem 1 g 8 hourly and i.v. amikacin 15 mg/kg/ daily (5 days) were started (the isolate was ciprofloxacin-resistant). Following 14 days of meropenem he was discharged and 3 days later he was readmitted with fever and dysuria. Since the blood and urine isolate was K. pneumoniae, based on AST 21 days of meropenem were given, the patient was discharged and 3 days later he was readmitted with fever and dysuria. Since this was the 3^rd episode with K. pneumoniae bacteremia, to exclude the focus of infection contrast-enhanced computed tomography and ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography were done but both were normal.Based on multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and microtiter plate assay, biofilm forming magA(K1)-positive (+) K. pneumoniae CC23 was found. The patient was having continuous asymptomatic bacteriuria with similar (magA(K1)-positive (+) K. pneumoniae CC23) isolate; we opted for high dose oral ciprofloxacin (800 mg, 8 hourly) for 7 days.

Conclusions

Following a high dose of oral ciprofloxacin, we were able to achieve urinary microbial clearance and a permanent cure following (magA(K1)-positive (+) K. pneumoniae CC23) bacteremia. This could be a promising therapy to achieve microbial clearance from biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae.

The long-term outcomes of deceased-donor liver transplantation for primary biliary cirrhosis: a two-center study in China

Background & Aims

Factors that influence the outcomes after deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT) for primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) are not well known. We aimed to clarify these effects on the outcomes after DDLT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients with PBC who underwent DDLT from March 2006 to July 2018 at the organ transplantation center of the First Hospital of Jilin University and the First Central Hospital of Tianjin. Changes in liver function were assessed posttransplantation. Recurrence, survival rate, and complications were recorded at follow-up. The effect of liver transplantation on survival and recurrence was evaluated using univariate and/or multivariate Cox regression analyses.

Results

In total, 69 patients with PBC undergoing DDLT were included in this study. At 4 weeks posttransplant, all liver function tests were normal. During a median follow-up time of 32 months, 5-year overall survival and recurrence rates were estimated as 95.1% and 21.8%, respectively. A recipient aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) greater than 2 was negatively associated with survival (P = 0.0018). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that age younger than 48 years was an independent risk factor for recurrent PBC in recipients undergoing liver transplantation (hazard ratio 0.028, 95% confidence interval 0.01-0.71, P = 0.03). Posttransplant infections (62%) and biliary tract complications (26%) were the most common complications.

Conclusion

Liver transplantation is an effective treatment for patients with PBC. Liver function normalizes by 4 weeks posttransplant. Although posttransplant survival rate is high, recurrence is possible. To some extent, survival rate and recurrence rate can be predicted by APRI and age, respectively.

Bacterial and Fungal Infections After Liver Transplantation: Microbial Epidemiology, Risk Factors for Infection and Death with Infection

Background

Infections, especially bacterial and fungal infections, are the leading cause of high mortality after liver transplantation (LT). This research investigated the pathogenic spectrum, antimicrobial susceptibility results, and risk factors of infection and death with infection to better control such infections.

Material/Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed, and 433 liver transplant recipients between January 2010 and December 2016 were analyzed.

Results

We found 290 isolates of bacteria and fungi in 170 infected liver transplant patients. Significant independent risk factors for bacterial and fungal infections were prolonged hospital stay (OR 1.034, 95% CI 1.013~1.056, p=0.002), mechanical ventilation (OR 3.806, 95% CI 1.567~9.248, p=0.003), and liver failure (OR 2.659, 95% CI 1.019~6.940, p=0.046). Furthermore, postoperative MELD scores (OR 1.120, 95% CI 1.020~1.230, p=0.017) and septic shock (OR 12.000, 95% CI 1.124~128.066, p=0.003) were independent risk factors for death with infection. CRAB infection is the main pathogenic bacteria of septic shock in LT patients.

Conclusions

We found that 39.3% of recipients had at least 1 bacterial or fungal infection after LT. Shortening the length of hospital stay and early withdrawal of mechanical ventilation will reduce the risk of infection after LT. Patients with liver failure should be more vigilant against postoperative infection. Once an infection occurs, immediate assessment of the postoperative MELD score, early diagnosis of septic shock, and active search for pathogenic evidence for precise treatment will help improve patient prognosis. Routine screening for CRAB colonization before surgery will facilitate empirical use of effective antibiotics.

Clinical and economic burden of infections in hospitalized solid organ transplant recipients compared with the general population in Canada - a retrospective cohort study

Infections continue to be a major cause of post-transplant morbidity and mortality, requiring increased health services utilization. Estimates on the magnitude of this impact are relatively unknown. Using national administrative databases, we compared mortality, acute care health services utilization, and costs in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients to nontransplant patients using a retrospective cohort of hospitalizations in Canada (excluding Manitoba/Quebec) between April-2009 and March-2014, with a diagnosis of pneumonia, urinary tract infection (UTI), or sepsis. Costs were analyzed using multivariable linear regression. We examined 816 324 admissions in total: 408 352 pneumonia; 328 066 UTI's; and 128 275 sepsis. Unadjusted mean costs were greater in SOT compared to non-SOT patients with pneumonia [(C$14 923 ± C$29 147) vs. (C$11 274 ± C$18 284)] and sepsis [(C$23 434 ± C$39 685) vs. (C$20 849 ± C$36 257)]. Mortality (7.6% vs. 12.5%; P < 0.001), long-term care transfer (5.3% vs. 16.5%; P < 0.001), and mean length of stay (11.0 ± 17.7 days vs. 13.1 ± 24.9 days; P < 0.001) were lower in SOT. More SOT patients could be discharged home (63.2% vs. 44.3%; P < 0.001), but required more specialized care (23.5% vs. 16.1%; P < 0.001). Adjusting for age and comorbidities, hospitalization costs for SOT patients were 10% (95% CI: 8-12%) lower compared to non-SOT patients. Increased absolute hospitalization costs for these infections are tempered by lower adjusted costs and favorable clinical outcomes.

The changes of intraoperative body temperature in adult liver transplantation: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Body temperature is poorly regulated in patients with end-stage liver disease. Due to the prolonged surgery time and anhepatic time as well as the complex surgical procedures performed in liver transplantation, the body temperature fluctuates greatly. This study investigated the effect of intraoperative body temperature fluctuations on the prognosis of liver recipients.

METHODS

The body temperatures of liver recipients recorded from the induction of anesthesia (T₀) until the end of surgery (T₁₄) were retrieved. The patients were divided into two groups: the hypothermia group (< 35 °C and ≥ 5 min) and the normothermia group (≥ 35 °C or < 35 °C but < 5 min). Intraoperative and postoperative variables were compared between the two groups, and the correlations between the duration of hypothermia and the medical variables were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 107 patients, 67 patients were in the normothermia group, and 40 in the hypothermia group. The lowest body temperature was at 5 min after reperfusion for the whole cohort. Compared with the normothermia group, patients in the hypothermia group were more prone to bleeding, had a longer intubation time and increased rates of bacterial infection and acute pulmonary edema after liver transplantation (P < 0.05). Hypothermia time was positively correlated with bleeding volume, intubation time, units of blood transfusions and intensive care stay, but negatively correlated with urine output.

CONCLUSIONS

The intraoperative body temperature exhibited a graphical "V" trend, and the lowest temperature was at 5 min after reperfusion. The longer the duration of hypothermia, the more unfavourable the prognosis.

Early Postoperative Infections After Liver Transplant

OBJECTIVES

Despite surgical advances and effective prophylactic strategies in liver transplant, infection is still a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Up to 80% of liver recipients will develop at least 1 infection during the first year after liver transplant. The spectrum and manifestations of these infections are broad and variable. Their diagnosis and treatment are often delayed because immunosuppressive therapy diminishes inflammatory responses. However, if an infection is not identified early enough and treated properly, it can have devastating consequences. In addition, prophylactic approaches remain controversial. Our aim was to review our early postoperative infection management after liver transplant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated infections that occurred during the first hospital stay of transplant patients. Infections were grouped as surgical site and nonsurgical site infections. Consequences and treatment protocols of infections were stratified according to the Clavien scale.

RESULTS

Between December 1988 and January 2017, we performed 561 liver transplants at our center (patient age range, 6 months to 64 years), which included 401 living-donor (72%) and 160 deceaseddonor (28%) liver transplants. Early postoperative infections were detected in 131 patients (23.3%), comprising 67 surgical site (51%), 56 nonsurgical site (43%), and 8 combined surgical and nonsurgical site infections (6%). Although no mortalities occurred in patients with single nonsurgical or surgical site infections, there were 4 mortalities in patients with combined surgical and nonsurgical site infections. In the 4 other patients with combined infections, 3 patients required endoscopic or radiologic intervention and 1 recovered from single-organ dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Initiation of appropriate prophylactic and therapeutic protocols at the right time decreases morbidity and mortality due to infection in liver transplant recipients. Increased understanding and effective approaches to prevent infection are essential to improving both graft and recipient survival.

Predictors of postoperative infectious complications in liver transplant recipients: experience of 185 consecutive cases

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Infections following liver transplant (LT) remain a major cause of mortality. This study was conducted to evaluate risk factors for infection and to review clinical characteristics.

METHODS

Medical records of patients who underwent LT from 2010 to 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to investigate risk factors of infection. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to predict prognosis of infected and non-infected groups.

RESULTS

Of 185 recipients, 89 patients experienced infectious complications. The median follow-up period was 911 days (range, 9 to 2,031). The infected group had higher 1-year mortality (n = 22 [24.7%] vs. n = 8, [8.3%], p = 0.002), and longer postoperative admission days (mean: 53.7 ± 35.8 days vs. 28.3 ± 13.0 days, p &lt; 0.001), compared to the non-infected group. High preoperative Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score (odds ratio [OR], 1.057; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.010 to 1.105; p = 0.016), deceased-donor type (OR, 5.475; 95% CI, 2.442 to 12.279; p &lt; 0.001), and acute rejection (OR, 3.042; 95% CI, 1.241 to 7.454; p = 0.015) were independent risk factors associated with infection. Intra-abdominal infection (n = 35, 20.8%) was the major infectious complication. Among identified bacteria, Enterococcus species (28.4%) were major pathogens, followed by Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species.

CONCLUSIONS

High preoperative MELD score, deceased-donor type, and acute rejection were risk factors associated with infection. To prevent infections following surgery, it is important to determine the appropriate time of operation before the recipient has a high MELD score.

Risk factors for early invasive fungal infections in paediatric liver transplant recipients

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) postliver transplantation are a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality; however, studies reporting on these infections in the paediatric population are scarce. To investigate the incidence and risk factors of IFIs in paediatric liver transplant recipients during the early posttransplantation period (≤3 months). Data were collected for all paediatric liver transplant recipients registered in a national transplantation center from 2004 to 2014. Using a stepwise logistic regression to identify independent risk factors for IFIs, a predictive model was formulated. Ten IFIs were identified in 81 liver transplant recipients (12.3%) all occurring during the first month posttransplantation. Candida species were responsible for nine cases (90%), of which four were non-albicans Candida (44%). Significant risk factors were identified; recipient of multiple blood product transfusions during transplantation, prolonged use of indwelling intravenous catheter, prolonged IV antibiotic treatment, surgical complications, pulse steroid treatment and living donor liver transplantation. The predictive model used two clinical parameters to define high-risk patients: a living donor transplantation and duration of IV antibiotic treatment (area under the ROC curve 0.918). IFIs are a significant complication occurring in the first month posttransplantation. Future studies are required to assess efficacy of targeted antifungal prophylaxis in high risk patients.

Cytomegalovirus infection in living donor liver transplant recipients significantly impacts the early post-transplant outcome: A single center experience

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common viral infection in liver transplant recipients that influences the outcomes of liver transplantation. However, its impact on early outcomes following living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is not fully defined in the Indian subcontinent. This study was done to assess the impact of CMV infection on early post-transplant outcomes in LDLT recipients.

METHODS

Out of 272 LDLTs performed from January 2012 to April 2013, 151 recipients underwent CMV viral load analysis in plasma within 90 days post LDLT based on clinical suspicion. Patients with CMV infection (n = 55) were compared with those without CMV infection (n = 96).

RESULTS

The median time interval of CMV infection from LDLT was 25 days (range 2-90 days). The mean age of study population was 48.92 years. About 116 (76.8%) of the patients were male. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) (39.1%)-related chronic liver disease (CLD) was most common indication for liver transplant. No statistically significant difference was observed in etiology of liver disease (P = .38), Chid-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) (P = .41), and Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) (P = .12) scores between the groups. Patients with CMV infection had significantly higher incidence of acute cellular rejection (16.1% vs 5.4%, P = .02); longer ICU stay (P = .01); and a higher overall 90-day mortality (24.2% vs 6.7%, P = .001). Bacteremia and fungemia were significantly more common in the CMV infection group.

CONCLUSION

Cytomegalovirus infection significantly influences the early post LDLT outcomes and contributes to increased overall mortality.

Early infections in the intensive care unit after liver transplantation-etiology and risk factors: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Infectious complications represent one of the main causes of perioperative morbidity and mortality of liver transplant recipients. The primary objective of this retrospective observational study was to evaluate incidence and etiology of early (within 1 month from surgery and occurring in the intensive care unit [ICU]) postoperative infections as well as donor- and recipient-related risk factors.

METHODS

The data of 280 patients undergoing 299 consecutive liver transplant procedures from January 2012 to December 2015 were extracted from the Italian ICU registry database and hospital registries. Perioperative risk factors, etiology of infections, and antibiotic susceptibility of isolated microorganisms were taken into consideration.

RESULTS

Global incidence of postoperative infections was 21%. Pneumonia was the most frequent infection and, globally, gram-negative bacteria were the most common agents. Septic shock was present in 22% of infection cases and hospital mortality was higher in patients with postoperative infection. Preoperative chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, malnutrition, preoperative ascites, encephalopathy, and early re-transplantation were significantly associated to post orthotopic LT infections.

CONCLUSION

Infections represent a major cause of early postoperative morbidity and mortality. The impact of single risk factors and the results of their preoperative management should be further investigated in order to reduce the incidence and evolution of postoperative infections.

Infections in live donor liver transplant recipients: A study of timeline, aetiology and antimicrobial resistance of bacterial and fungal infections from the developing world

Infections are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in liver transplant (LT) recipients. We studied timeline, spectrum of infection, system involved, and antimicrobial resistance in 64 patients undergoing live donor LT with 6-month follow-up. Of 64 patients, 38 (59.5%) patients had 103 infectious episodes, 10 patients had single infectious episode and 28 patients had two or more infectious episodes. 96 (93.2%) were bacterial and Candida infections were in 7 (6.8%). Early phase had 30 (29.1%) episodes; intermediate phase 25 (24.2%) and late phase 48 (46.6%). Mortality was 11/64 (17.1%). Knowledge of timeline, aetiological agent and antimicrobial resistance is useful to guide empirical therapy and infection prevention.

Infectious diseases in solid organ transplant recipients: Analysis of autopsied cases in Japan

BACKGROUND

With the improvements in immunosuppressive agents and graft survival, infections such as mycoses have become major complications after solid organ transplantation (SOT).

METHODS

Our group has continuously updated an epidemiological database of visceral mycoses (VM) among autopsy cases in Japan since 1989. Data on infectious agents and clinical information were complied using similar procedures.

RESULTS

Among the all autopsied cases studied, 356 undergone SOT. Of these, 214 (60.1%) suffered from one or more types of infections, including 51 (14.3%) with VM. Thus, the incidence of VM was higher in SOT recipients than in non-transplanted cases (P < 0.0001). Aspergillus spp. (Asp) was the most predominant agent and Candida spp. was second. Specifically, among SOT recipients, Asp was the most predominant in liver and lung transplant recipients. Among the 217 autopsied liver transplants cases, the incidence of VM was highest in those with fulminant hepatitis (FH, P = 0.01). The incidence of cytomegalovirus infection tended to be higher in cases with mycosis (P = 0.06). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified FH (odds ratio, 3.61, 95% confidence interval 1.34-9.75; P = 0.03) as an independent risk factor for mycosis in liver transplant recipients.

CONCLUSION

This epidemiological analysis of autopsied cases provides a strong incentive to intensify efforts to diagnose and treat post-SOT infectious diseases.

Epidemiology and risk factors for infection after living donor liver transplantation

The epidemiology of infections after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is limited. We aimed to study the epidemiology and risk factors of infections after LDLT. The medical records of 223 adult patients who underwent LDLT from January 1, 2000 to August 31, 2015 were reviewed for all infections occurring up to 1 year. We estimated the cumulative incidence of infection using the Kaplan-Meier product limit method. Risk factors were analyzed with time-dependent Cox regression modeling. The majority of patients were Caucasian (94.6%) and male (64.6%), and the median age at transplantation was 55 years. The most common indication for transplantation was primary sclerosing cholangitis (37.7%). A total of 122 patients developed an infection during the follow-up period (1-year cumulative event rate of 56%), with the majority (66%) of these occurring within 30 days after transplantation. Enterococcus sp. was the most frequent pathogen identified. Multivariate analysis showed that increased Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score (per 10-point change: hazard ratio [HR], 1.59), history of recurrent infections prior to transplant (HR, 2.01), Roux-en-Y anastomosis (HR, 2.37), increased log-number of packed red blood cell transfusions (HR, 1.39), and biliary complications (HR, 4.26) were independently associated with a higher risk of infection. Infections occur commonly after LDLT, with most infections occurring early and being related to the hepatobiliary system. Higher MELD scores, the type of biliary anastomosis, presence of biliary complications, and prior pretransplant infections are independently associated with a higher risk for infections. Liver Transplantation 23 465-477 2017 AASLD.

Clinical and microbiological epidemiology of early and late infectious complications among solid-organ transplant recipients requiring hospitalization

There is limited literature describing the clinical and microbiological characteristics of solid-organ transplant recipients requiring hospitalization for infectious complications. This study reports on the rate and timing of these syndromes and describes the associated microbiological epidemiology. This prevalence cohort study evaluated solid-organ transplant recipients requiring hospitalization during 2007-2011. We reported infectious complications requiring hospitalization in 603 of 1414 readmissions at a rate of 0.43 episodes per 1000 transplant-days (95% CI, 0.40-0.47), with 85% occurring >6 months post-transplantation. The most frequent infectious complications were as follows: respiratory (27%), sepsis or bacteremia (13%), liver or biliary tract (12%), genitourinary (12%), and cytomegalovirus related (9%). Approximately 53% presented without fever, 45% had no pathogen isolated, and multidrug-resistant organisms were isolated in 27% of those with an identified microbiological etiology. Infectious-related complications continue to pose a high clinical burden on our acute care center, with the majority occurring in the late transplant period. Clinicians are faced with the difficult task of prescribing adequate antimicrobial therapy.

Microbial epidemiology and risk factors of infections in recipients after DCD liver transplantation

AIM

Infection is a major cause of increased mortality after a liver transplant (LT). This study sought to identify the incidence, prevalence and risk factors of microbial infection for recipients who underwent LT using grafts from donors after cardiac death (DCD).

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the frequency and characteristics of post-transplantation infections in 236 recipients who underwent DCD LT between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2014 in our centre and evaluated the risk factors of post-transplantation infection.

RESULTS

Overall, 162 recipients acquired at least one type of infection during hospitalisation after LT, and the morbidity rate was 68.6%. Moreover, 19 of the 236 recipients died, with an overall mortality rate of 8.1%. In total, 752 pathogens were isolated. Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi accounted for 26.1% (196), 58.2% (438) and 15.7% (118) of the pathogens, respectively. Kaplan-Meier curves of 1-year survival showed that recipients with infection had a significantly lower cumulative survival rate compared with those without infection (83.2% vs. 90.6%, p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that age > 60 years (p = 0.010) and severe hepatitis (p = 0.036) were independent risk factors for infection during hospitalisation after LT.

CONCLUSION

Infection is a common complication after a DCD-LT that could impair 1-year survival. We suggest physicians pay more attention to the infection of recipients post-LT, especially those recipients greater than 60 years of age and those who suffered from severe hepatitis.

DCD liver transplant infection: experience from a single centre in China

AIM

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the incidence, timing, location and risk factors for bacterial and fungal infections after donation after cardiac death (DCD) liver transplant and clearly delineate any relationship between infection and survival in DCD liver transplant recipients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 257 consecutive patients undergoing DCD liver transplant between October 2010 and May 2015 at our centre.

RESULTS

A total of 133 patients (51.8%) developed at least one bacterial or fungal infection episode. The predominant infection site was the respiratory tract, followed by the blood stream. Most of the infections occurred within the first week after liver transplant (61.9%). A recipient respiratory support time greater than 7 days (p = 0.041), post-transplant hospital time greater than 24 days (p = 0.002) and renal failure after DCD liver transplant (p = 0.039) were independent predictors of bacterial and fungal infection. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of the transplant infection risk assessment model was 0.788. The 1- and 3-year survival rates for recipients without infection were significantly increased compared with recipients with infection (96.1% and 89.0% vs. 81.5% and 75.9%, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

This is the first study that offers detailed data revealing the timing and incidence of bacterial and fungal infection among adult DCD liver transplant recipients. Bacterial and fungal infection occurs at a high rate during the first week after DCD liver transplant, especially in patients with prolonged respiratory support time and renal failure, and infection is related to increased hospital stay.

C7 genotype of the donor may predict early bacterial infection after liver transplantation

Post-transplantation infection causes high mortality and remains a significant challenge. High clinical risk factors for bacterial infection in recipients are often found in critically ill patients. However, for some recipients, bacterial infections are inevitable. It is conceivable that this susceptibility may be related to the genetics of the donor and recipient. Using expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis, we found that the C7 rs6876739 CC genotypes and mannan-binding lectin (MBL2) gene polymorphisms of liver donors were significantly associated with bacterial infection in recipients. In an extended validation group of 113 patients, donor C7 rs6876739 genetic variation was an independent risk factor for bacterial infection. The donor C7 rs6876739 CC genotype was associated with lower levels of recipient C7 protein, soluble membrane attack complex (MAC), and IL-1β expression compared with the donor C7 rs6876739 TT genotype. In vitro, the MAC significantly triggered NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1β release, suggesting that the mechanism by which C7 defends against bacteria may involve MAC formation, leading to NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1β release. Our findings may be helpful in identifying transplantation recipients at risk of bacterial infection prior to surgery and may contribute to novel infection prevention strategies and the improvement of postoperative outcomes.

Infections After Liver Transplantation: A Retrospective, Single-center Study

OBJECTIVE

To access the incidence of infectious problems after liver transplantation (LT).

DESIGN

A retrospective, single-center study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients undergoing LT from January 2008 to December 2011 were considered. Exclusion criterion was death occurring in the first 48 hours after LT. We determined the site of infection and the bacterial isolates and collected and compared recipient's variables, graft variables, surgical data, post-LT clinical data.

RESULTS

Of the 492 patients who underwent LT and the 463 considered for this study, 190 (Group 1, 41%) developed at least 1 infection, with 298 infections detected. Of these, 189 microorganisms were isolated, 81 (51%) gram-positive bacteria (most frequently Staphylococcus spp). Biliary infections were more frequent (mean time of 160.4 ± 167.7 days after LT); from 3 months after LT, gram-negative bacteria were observed (57%). Patients with infections after LT presented lower aminotransferase levels, but higher requirements in blood transfusions, intraoperative vasopressors, hemodialysis, and hospital stay. Operative and cold ischemia times were similar.

CONCLUSION

We found a 41% incidence of all infections in a 2-year follow-up after LT. Gram-positive bacteria were more frequent isolated; however, negative bacteria were commonly isolated later. Clinical data after LT were more relevant for the development of infections. Donors' variables should be considered in future analyses.

Impact of abdominal drainage systems on postoperative complication rates following liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Depending on the extent of surgery, coagulation status and the number of anastomoses, drains are routinely used during liver transplantation. The aim of this study was to compare different drain types with regard to abdominal complication rates.

METHODS

All consecutive full-size orthotopic liver transplantations (LTX) performed over a 7-year period were included in this retrospective analysis. Abdominal drain groups were divided into open-circuit drains and closed-circuit drains. Data are reported as total number (%) or median (range); for all comparisons a p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 256 LTX [age 56.89 (0.30-75.21) years; MELD 14.5 (7-40)] was included; 56 (21.8 %) patients received an open-circuit Easy Flow Drain (Group 1) and 200 (78.2 %) a closed-circuit Robinson Drainage System (Group 2). For Groups 1 and 2, overall infection rates were 78.6 and 56 % (p = 0.001), abdominal infection rates 50.82 and 21.92 % (p = 0.001), yeast infection rates 37 and 23 % (p = 0.02), abdominal bleeding rates 26.78 and 17 % (p = 0.07), biliary complication rates 14.28 and 13.5 % (p = 0.51), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective series, open-circuit drains were associated with more abdominal complications, mainly due to intraabdominal infections, than were closed-circuit drains.

The relevance of intestinal dysbiosis in liver transplant candidates

BACKGROUND

The gut microbial ecosystem plays an important role in the pathogenesis of liver diseases. However, the association of microbial community structure with the severity of liver dysfunction is not completely understood.

METHODS

Fecal microflora was assessed in 40 patients with liver cirrhosis listed for primary liver transplantation (LT). Independent associations between fecal microbial counts and serum bilirubin, serum creatinine, international normalized ratio (INR), and the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score were established in multiple linear regression models.

RESULTS

Bifidobacterium (standardized regression coefficient [sβ] = -0.549; P < 0.001), Enterococcus (sβ = 0.369; P = 0.004), and yeast (sβ = 0.315; P = 0.018) numbers were independently associated with serum bilirubin, while Escherichia coli counts (sβ = 0.318; P = 0.046) correlated with INR, and Bifidobacterium counts (sβ = 0.410; P = 0.009) with serum creatinine. Only Bifidobacterium (sβ = -0.468; P = 0.003) and Enterococcus (sβ = 0.331; P = 0.029) counts were independent predictors of the MELD score. Bifidobacterium/Enterococcus ratio, proposed as a measure of pre-LT gut dysbiosis, was significantly related to the MELD score following the adjustment for the absolute Bifidobacterium (sβ = -0.333; P = 0.029) and Enterococcus (sβ = -0.966; P = 0.003) numbers. This pre-transplant dysbiosis ratio (PTDR) was significantly correlated with Enterococcus (R = -0.897; P < 0.001) but not with Bifidobacterium (R = 0.098; P = 0.546) counts. Among the other components of gut microflora, only hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 )-producing Lactobacillus strains significantly influenced Enterococcus counts (sβ = 0.349; P = 0.028) and PTDR (sβ = -0.318; P = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

While the abundance of both Bifidobacterium and Enterococcus is related to liver dysfunction, the size of the Enterococcus population seems to be the most important determinant of pre-LT gut dysbiosis in cirrhotic patients. The H2 O2 -producing Lactobacillus strains potentially ameliorate this dysbiotic state.

Infection complications and pattern of bacterial resistance in living-donor liver transplantation: a multicenter epidemiologic study in Egypt

INTRODUCTION

Data on the prevalence and pattern of infection after living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) are scarce in Egypt. We therefore conducted this study to quantify the incidence, risk factors, and pattern of bacterial resistance post-LDLT in 3 hospitals in Egypt.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study of the medical records of 246 patients who underwent LDLT between January 2006 and April 2011 at 3 transplant centers in Egypt.

RESULTS

Of 246 patients enrolled in this study, 127 (52%) developed infectious complications after LDLT, with 416 episodes of infection occurring within 3 months of transplantation. Biliary tract infection was the most common, occurring in 169 (40.6%) patients. The rate of infection with Gram-negative bacteria was higher than that of infection with Gram-positive bacteria (310 [74%] vs 87 [21%]; P < .001). Overall, 75% of Gram-negative isolates were multidrug resistant. Significant independent risk factors for infection were portal vein thrombosis (odds ratio, 2.4; P = .037) and biliary complications (odds ratio, 5.4; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed a high-resistance pattern of bacterial infection after LDLT in Egypt. Early biliary complications were an independent risk factor for bacterial infection.

Randomized trial of micafungin for the prevention of invasive fungal infection in high-risk liver transplant recipients

In this randomized clinical trial comparing micafungin 100 mg with standard-care antifungal prophylaxis (fluconazole, liposomal amphotericin B, or caspofungin) in high-risk liver transplant patients, micafungin 100 mg was noninferior and had a better kidney safety profile.

Background. Invasive fungal infection (IFI) following liver transplant is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Antifungal prophylaxis is rational for liver transplant patients at high IFI risk.

Methods. In this open-label, noninferiority study, patients were randomized 1:1 to receive intravenous micafungin 100 mg or center-specific standard care (fluconazole, liposomal amphotericin B, or caspofungin) posttransplant. The primary endpoint was clinical success (absence of a proven/probable IFI and no need for additional antifungals) at end of prophylaxis (EOP). Noninferiority (10% margin) of micafungin vs standard care was assessed in the per protocol and full analysis sets. Safety assessments included adverse events and liver and kidney function tests.

Results. The full analysis set comprised 344 patients (172 micafungin; 172 standard care). Mean age was 51.2 years; 48.0% had a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score ≥20. At EOP (mean treatment duration, 17 days), clinical success was 98.6% for micafungin and 99.3% for standard care (Δ standard care – micafungin [95% confidence interval], 0.7% [−2.7% to 4.4%]) in the per protocol set and 96.5% and 93.6%, respectively (−2.9% [−8.0% to 1.9%]), in the full analysis set. Incidences of drug-related adverse events for micafungin and standard care were 11.6% and 16.3%, leading to discontinuation in 6.4% and 11.6% of cases, respectively. At EOP, liver function tests were similar but creatinine clearance was higher in micafungin- vs standard care–treated patients.

Conclusions. Micafungin was noninferior to standard care as antifungal prophylaxis in liver transplant patients at high risk for IFI. Adverse event profiles and liver function at EOP were similar, although kidney function was better with micafungin.

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT01058174.

Infections after orthotopic liver transplantation

Opportunistic infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality after orthotopic liver transplantation. Systemic immunosuppression renders the liver recipient susceptible to de novo infection with bacteria, viruses and fungi post-transplantation as well to reactivation of pre-existing, latent disease. Pathogens are also transmissible via the donor organ. The time from transplantation and degree of immunosuppression may guide the differential diagnosis of potential infectious agents. However, typical systemic signs and symptoms of infection are often absent or blunted after transplant and a high index of suspicion is needed. Invasive procedures are often required to procure tissue for culture and guide antimicrobial therapy. Antimicrobial prophylaxis reduces the incidence of opportunistic infections and is routinely employed in the care of patients after liver transplant. In this review, we survey common bacterial, fungal, and viral infections after orthotopic liver transplantation and highlight recent developments in their diagnosis and management.

[Complications associated with hyperglycemia in liver transplant patients]

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycemia is a frequent phenomenon in hospitalized patients that is associated with negative outcomes. It is common in liver transplant patients as a result of stress and is related to immunosuppressant drugs. Although studies are few, a history of diabetes and the presentation of hyperglycemia during liver transplantation have been associated with a higher risk for rejection.

AIMS

To analyze whether hyperglycemia during the first 48hours after liver transplantation was associated with a higher risk for infection, rejection, or longer hospital stay.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients above the age of 15years that received a liver transplant. Hyperglycemia was defined as a value above 140mg/dl and it was measured in three different manners (as an isolated value, as a mean value, and as a weighted value over time). The relation of hyperglycemia to a risk for acute rejection, infection, or longer hospital stay was evaluated.

RESULTS

Some form of hyperglycemia was present in 94% of the patients during the first 48 post-transplantation hours, regardless of its definition. There was no increased risk for rejection (OR: 1.49; 95%CI: 0.55-4.05), infection (OR: 0.62; 95%CI: 0.16-2.25), or longer hospital stay between the patients that presented with hyperglycemia and those that did not.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperglycemia during the first 48hours after transplantation appeared to be an expected phenomenon in the majority of patients and was not associated with a greater risk for rejection or infection and it had no impact on the duration of hospital stay.

Probiotic use in preventing postoperative infection in liver transplant patients

BACKGROUND

Although liver transplantation has been widely practised, post-operative bacterial infection is still a frequent complication which contributed to an increased risk of fatality. There were studies on preoperative use of probiotics for liver transplant patients and acquired reduction in postoperative sepsis and wound infection, but the relevant clinical experience with pre- and probiotics is still limited.

OBJECTIVES

This study is to assess fibre and probiotic use aimed at preventing bacterial sepsis and wound complications in patients undergoing liver transplantation.

STUDY METHODS

There were a total of sixty-seven adult patients scheduled for liver transplantation were included in a public teaching hospital. From January to December 2011, 34 continuous patients following liver transplantation were put on fibre + probiotics. In retrospectively, from January to December 2010, 33 continuous patients were collected as a control group and they were only received fibre post operation. The incidence of bacterial infections was compared in patients receiving either fibre and lactobacillus or fibre only. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 15. The t test, fisher's and chi- square test was used to compare discrete variables.

RESULTS

In summary, in the analysis of 67 liver transplant recipients, 8.8% group A patients developed infections compared to 30.3% group B patients. The difference between groups A and B was statistically significant in both cases. In addition, the duration of antibiotic therapy was significantly shorter in the lactobacillus-group. Wound infection was the most frequent infections and enterococci the most frequently isolated bacteria. Fibre and lactobacilli were well tolerated in most cases. The operating time, amount of intra- and post-operatively transfused units of blood, fresh frozen plasma and albumin did not differ significantly between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined fibre and probiotics could lower the incidence of bacterial infections and shorten the duration of antibiotic therapy following liver transplantation in comparison to conventional nutrition. In contrast to antibiotics, it is relatively cheap and does not cause resistant strains or serious side effects.

Risk factors for early bacterial infections in liver transplantation

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to determine perioperative risk factors for early bacterial infection after liver transplantation.

METHODS

Retrospectively examining medical records using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definitions to identify nosocomial infections, we analyzed data on 367 adult patients.

RESULTS

The incidence of infection was 37.3% (n = 137): namely, surgical site (n = 74; 20.2%) [corrected], blood stream (n = 64; 17.4%), pulmonary (n = 49; 13.4%), urinary system (n = 26; 7.1%). Significant risk factors within the first 30 days were as follows: deceased donor, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) >20, albumin level <2.8 g/dL, intraoperative erythrocyte transfusion >6 U, intraoperative fresh frozen plasma >12 U, bilioenteric anastomosis, postoperative intensive care unit stay >6 days, and postoperative length of stay >21 days. Significant risk factors detected within the first 90 days were as follows: MELD >20, preoperative length of stay >7 days, reoperation, postoperative length of intensive care unit stay >6 days, and postoperative length of stay >21 days. Variability was observed in risk factors according to localization of infection. As a result, except for MELD, type of donor, and biliary anastomosis, the others are preventable factors for early bacterial infection. In addition, the same risk factors showed variability according to the site of infection.

Treatment of wounds colonized by multidrug resistant organisms in immune-compromised patients: a retrospective case series

Background

Immune-compromised patients incur a high risk of surgical wound dehiscence and colonization by multidrug resistant organisms. Common treatment has been debridement and spontaneous secondary healing.

We report on the results obtained in nine such patients whose wounds were treated by debridement, negative pressure dressing and direct closure.

Methods

All immune-compromised patients referred to our Institution between March 1, 2010 and November 30, 2011 for dehiscent abdominal wounds growing multidrug resistant organisms were treated by serial wound debridements and negative pressure dressing. They were primarily closed, despite positive microbiological cultures, when clinical appearance was satisfactory.

As a comparison, records from patients treated between March 1, 2008 and February 28, 2010 who, according to our Institution’s policy at that time, had been left to heal by secondary intention, were retrieved and examined.

Results

Nine patients were treated by direct wound closure, five had been treated previously by secondary intention healing.

Overall, ten patients had received liver transplant, 1 kidney transplant, 1 was HIV infected, 1 suffered from multi-organ failure, 1 was undergoing hemodialysis.

Wound dehiscence involved skin and subcutaneous layers in all patients, in two the muscular layer was also involved.

Mean healing time was significantly shorter in patients treated more recently by primary intention in comparison with historical patients (28 vs 81 days). The only complication observed was a small superficial abscess that developed around a non-absorbable stitch 10 months after closure in a patient treated by primary closure.

Conclusions

According to our results, fast healing can be safely obtained by closure of a clinically healthy wound, despite growth of multidrug resistant organisms, even in immune-compromised patients.

Effects of blood products on nosocomial infections in liver transplant recipients

OBJECTIVES

Infection is the most severe complication after an organ transplant. Blood cell transfusion is an independent risk factor for adverse events, including infection in the recipient. This study sought to evaluate the effect of blood product transfusions on nosocomial infections in liver transplant patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent a liver transplant at our hospital between 2003 and 2010 were recruited for this study. Exclusion criteria were incomplete records, patients who were hospitalized for more than 48 hours during the 4 weeks before transplant, and pediatric transplants. Incidence of nosocomial infections, which were defined as infections occurring within 30 days after transplant was the primary endpoint.

RESULTS

The incidence of nosocomial infections was 28.7%. The number of transfusions of packed red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma was significantly higher in patients with nosocomial infection compared with patients without nosocomial infection (P = .018 and P = .039). Blood products dose-dependently contributed to nosocomial infections. Transfusions of ≥ 7.5 units of red blood cells (odds ratio: 2.8) or ≥ 12.5 units of fresh frozen plasma (odds ratio: 3.27) were associated with nosocomial infections (P = .042 and P = .015). The infection-related mortality rate was 10.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Blood product transfusions are associated with an increased rate of nosocomial infections, which contributes to higher morbidity and mortality.

Is resection equivalent to transplantation for early cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma? A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Whether liver resection or liver transplantation is optimal therapy for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains undefined. A meta-analysis was conducted to answer this question.

STUDY DESIGN

This study performed a systematic review of the published literature between January 2000 and April 2012.

RESULTS

Nine retrospective studies, totaling 2,279 patients (989 resected and 1,290 transplanted), met the selection criteria. Older patients with larger tumors and less severe cirrhosis were identified in the resection group. At 1 year, resection demonstrated significantly higher overall [odds ratio (OR) = 1.54; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.19-1.98; p = 0.001], but equivalent disease-free survival (OR = 0.93; 95 % CI, 0.53-1.63; p = 0.80). At 5 years, there was no difference in overall survival (OR = 0.86; 95 % CI, 0.61-1.21; p = 0.38), but a higher disease-free survival in transplanted patients was observed (OR = 0.39; 95 % CI, 0.24-0.63; p < 0.001). When limiting our analysis to studies conducted in an intent-to-treat fashion, there was no difference in 5 year overall survival (OR = 1.18; 95 % CI, 0.92-1.51; p = 0.19), but a significantly higher disease-free survival (OR = 0.76; 95 % CI, 0.57-1.00; p = 0.05) in transplanted patients. At 10 years, transplantation had higher overall and disease-free survival rates.

CONCLUSION

Liver transplantation in patients with HCC results in increased late disease-free and overall survival when compared with liver resection. Nonetheless, the benefit of liver transplantation is offset by higher short-term mortality, donor organ availability, and long transplant wait times associated with more patient deaths. Understanding these differences in survival is helpful in guiding treatment. However, a properly controlled prospective trial is needed to define how best to treat HCC patients who are candidates for either therapy.

Risk factors for infection after liver transplantation

Infection is a common cause of morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation. Risk factors relate to transplantation factors, donor and recipient factors. Transplant factors include ischaemia-reperfusion damage, amount of intra-operative blood transfusion, level and type of immunosuppression, rejection, and complications, prolonged intensive care stay with dialysis or ventilation, type of biliary drainage, repeat operations, re-transplantation, antibiotics, antiviral regimen, and environment. Donor risk factors include infection, prolonged intensive care stay, quality of the donor liver (e.g. steatosis), and viral status. For the recipient the most important are MELD score >30, malnutrition, renal failure, acute liver failure, presence of infection or colonisation, and immune status for viruses like cytomegalovirus. In recent years it has become clear that genetic polymorphisms in innate immunity, especially the lectin pathway of complement activation and in Toll-like receptors importantly contribute to the infection risk after liver transplantation. Therefore, the risk for infections after liver transplantation is a multifactorial problem and all factors need attention to reduce this risk.