Successful case with hemophagocytic syndrome after living donor liver transplantation

Hepatogastroenterology. 2012 May;59(115):863-5. doi: 10.5754/hge10081.

Abstract

Hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) is a rare but serious complication that is associated with hypercytokinemia caused by activated T lymphocytes and macrophages in immunologically compromised patients. Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) between adults has been performed to compensate for the shortage of available organs. There have been some reports of HPS after LDLT but its prognosis is disappointingly poor. Herein, we report a case of HPS in a 53-year-old woman who underwent LDLT using a left lobe graft. HPS was diagnosed on postoperative day 6 and successfully treated with a steroid pulse. HPS is a fatal complication in immunologically compromised patients but its early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to an improved outcome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Bone Marrow Examination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Liver Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Living Donors*
  • Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic / diagnosis
  • Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic / drug therapy
  • Lymphohistiocytosis, Hemophagocytic / etiology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pulse Therapy, Drug
  • Steroids / administration & dosage
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Steroids