Histological and biochemical effects of cyclosporine A withdrawal from a triple drug regimen after over 2 years of treatment in liver transplant patients

J Hepatol. 1995 Feb;22(2):151-7. doi: 10.1016/0168-8278(95)80422-6.

Abstract

Cyclosporine A was withdrawn from a triple drug immunosuppressive regimen in 10 clinically and biochemically stable liver transplant patients. This study reports the effects of cyclosporine A withdrawal on liver tests and liver histology. Serum aspartate amino transferase and serum alanine amino transferase values increased significantly. Seven out of ten patients had histological changes after cyclosporine A withdrawal, but not before. These changes were compatible with acute rejection (consistent with rejection) in two patients and grade I also in two patients, including one patient with a second graft. Only two of these patients needed corticosteroid treatment (one consistent with rejection and one grade I rejection). Cyclosporine A treatment was restarted in three patients, because a coexisting osteoporosis prohibited prolonged corticosteroid recycling. Seven patients were able to maintain stable though slightly elevated transaminases without cyclosporine A, with a follow up of median 26 months. Our results suggest that in stable patients cyclosporine A withdrawal can be considered, for instance 2 years after liver transplantation.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cyclosporine / adverse effects*
  • Cyclosporine / therapeutic use
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Liver / metabolism*
  • Liver / pathology*
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postoperative Care
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / metabolism*
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / pathology*

Substances

  • Cyclosporine