Transfusion has no effect on recurrence in hepatitis C after liver transplantation

Abstract

This study was not able to confirm an effect on the survival of HCV-infected liver transplant patients related to intraoperative transfusion of RBCs or platelets. In addition, these transfusions had no effect on HCV recurrence or fibrosis progression. This is not to condone a liberal transfusion practice, but rather to reassure that when clinically indicated, transfusion does not have a significant impact on patient survival or disease recurrence in HCV-infected liver transplant patients.

Perioperative blood transfusion affects hepatitis C virus (HCV)-specific immune responses and outcome following liver transplantation in HCV-infected patients

“…following transfusion may favour persistent replication of the virus that may lead to liver injury and the development of fibrosis. By contrast with those of Rice et al ., the present findings indicate that blood transfusion is associated with increased HCV recurrence and advanced liver fibrosis. The recurrence of HCV itself post‐transplant is universal, but incidences of progression of advanced liver fibrosis within 1 year of transplant vary and can reach 30–40% post‐LT .…”

“…The effects of blood product administration and transfusion following kidney transplantation have been well studied . Although these findings cannot be directly translated to LT, various studies have suggested that the transfusion of blood products plays a controversial role in outcome following LT, particularly in terms of its effect on HCV recurrence after LT. Hence, in view of the immunomodulatory properties of blood products, the goal of this study was to determine the effects of perioperative blood transfusion (blood products administered during or within the first 24 h of transplant) on transplant outcome in HCV‐infected LT recipients.…”