Positive Polymerase Chain Reaction for SARS-CoV-2 in a Candidate Does Not Always Preclude Liver Transplantation: Case Report and Literature Review

Exp Clin Transplant. 2022 Mar;20(3):321-324. doi: 10.6002/ect.2021.0387.

Abstract

We report a case of a liver transplant performed in a patient with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection who presented with a positive polymerase chain reaction test for SARS-CoV-2 on the day of transplant. The transplant procedure was performed without complications, and the patient did not develop symptoms after the initiation of immunosuppression. We also reviewed the literature for similar cases. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has forced the medical community to continuously adapt protocols to the current situation. Prudence is needed in immuno- compromised patients, and clinical experience is being built day by day. Thus, a positive polymerase chain reaction test for SARS-CoV-2 in a recipient should not always prevent a liver transplant.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Treatment Outcome