Medical Complications of Lung Transplantation

Abstract

Lung transplantation (LT) is now considered as an effective treatment option for end-stage lung diseases that improves the short and long-term survival rates and quality of life. As increasingly many LT procedures are being performed, the medical complications of LT are also increasing in frequency and emerging as a very important issue for transplant clinicians. Although chronic lung allograft dysfunction and infection are major causes of death after LT, many medical complications, several of which result from immunosuppressive treatment, contribute to increased mortality and morbidity. This article reviews the most frequent and important medical complications of LT, accompanied by a review of the literature and studies from South Korea, including lung allograft rejection, infection, and non-allograft organ systemic complications.

Advances in Managing Infections in Lung Transplantation: A Review

“…Bacterial pneumonia is the most common infectious complication after lung transplant, accounting for about 50% of all infectious complications [5]. Transient disruption of bronchial circulation can lead to epithelial dysfunction and poor ciliary function.…”

The role of lung-restricted autoantibodies in the development of primary and chronic graft dysfunction

“…Primary Graft Dysfunction (PGD) is the predominant risk factor for early mortality including death within 1 year after lung transplantation. However, Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction (CLAD) is the leading cause of death beyond 1 year after lung transplantation resulting in an estimated 50% of death ( 2 – 4 ). Importantly, PGD strongly predisposes to the risk of CLAD ( 5 , 6 ).…”