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1
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Haber PS. Identification and Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder. N Engl J Med 2025; 392:258-266. [PMID: 39813644 DOI: 10.1056/nejmra2306511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2025]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Haber
- From Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and the Department of Medicine, Central Clinical School, University of Sydney - both in Sydney
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2
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Lékó AH, Leggio L. Barriers to Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment in Patients with Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:779-791. [PMID: 39362721 PMCID: PMC11458136 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2024.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
The cornerstone in managing alcohol-associated liver disease is the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Several barriers prevent the implementation of adequate treatment and integrated care models. There are patient-level barriers, including the lack of self-awareness of AUD and being ashamed of AUD. There are clinician-level barriers, including lack of training and discomfort in managing patients with AUD. There are system-level barriers, including challenges related to insurance-based health care systems, and the general reluctance to invest in AUD by organizations focused on for-profit milestones. Therefore, it is imperative to develop multidisciplinary hepatology/addiction integrated care approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- András H Lékó
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Balassa utca 6, 1083, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA; Division of Addiction Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, 4940 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3970 Reservoir Road Northwest, NRB, EP04, Washington, DC, USA.
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3
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Goswami A, Weinberg E, Coraluzzi L, Bittermann T, Nahas J, Addis S, Weinrieb R, Serper M. A Tailored Virtual Program for Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment Among Liver Transplant Candidates and Recipients Is Feasible and Associated With Lower Post-Transplant Relapse. Clin Transplant 2024; 38:e15381. [PMID: 38940230 PMCID: PMC11273277 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.15381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a leading indication for liver transplant (LT) in the United States. Rates of early liver transplant (ELT) with less than 6 months of sobriety have increased substantially. Patients who receive ELT commonly have alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) and are often too ill to complete an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for alcohol use disorder (AUD) prior to LT. ELT recipients feel alienated from traditional IOPs. METHODS We implemented Total Recovery-LT, a tailored virtual outpatient IOP specific for patients under evaluation or waitlisted for LT who were too ill to attend community-based alcohol treatment programs. The 12-week program consisted of weekly group and individual counseling delivered by a master's level Certified Addiction Counselor trained in the basics of LT. Treatment consisted of 12-Step Facilitation, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We report on program design, implementation, feasibility and early outcomes. RESULTS From March 2021 to September 2022, 42 patients (36% female, 23 in LT evaluation, 19 post-transplant) enrolled across five cohorts with 76% (32/42) completing the program. Alcohol relapse was more common among noncompleters versus those who completed the program (8/10, 80% vs. 7/32, 22%, p = 0.002). History of trauma or post-traumatic stress symptoms were associated with lower likelihood of completion. Patients' desire for continued engagement after completion led to the creation of a monthly alumni group. CONCLUSIONS Our integrated IOP model for patients with high-risk AUD in LT evaluation or post-transplant is well-received by patients and could be considered a model for LT programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpita Goswami
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Ethan Weinberg
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | | | - Therese Bittermann
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Jonathan Nahas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Senayish Addis
- Penn Transplant Institute, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Robert Weinrieb
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA
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4
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Musto JA, German MN, Lucey MR. Making the best use of testing for blood phosphatidylethanol. Liver Transpl 2024; 30:122-123. [PMID: 37934057 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Musto
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Kim SH, Jang Y, Kim H. Concept and risk factors of alcohol relapse in liver transplant recipients with alcohol-related aetiologies: A scoping review. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2023; 32:1583-1597. [PMID: 37475208 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol relapse in those who received liver transplantation (LT) for alcohol-related liver disease can lead to poor graft function, low medication adherence rates and decreased chances of survival. Numerous studies have evaluated on this topic; however, discrepancies in the meaning and measurement of 'alcohol relapse' lead to heterogeneous results. This scoping review aimed to explore the conceptual and operational definitions of alcohol relapse in LT recipients with alcohol-related aetiologies and to examine newly reported risk factors of alcohol relapse. Following the Arksey and O'Malley scoping review method and PRISMA guidelines, structured searches for articles published from 2012 to 2022 were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane and PsycINFO. Twenty-eight studies were included in the final review. Alcohol relapse was either defined as 'any alcohol consumption' or 'a certain degree of alcohol drinking' after transplantation. Discrepancies in the incidence rates persisted even within studies that shared the same conceptual definition. Commonly reported risk factors for alcohol relapse were younger age, social isolation and shorter abstinence periods before LT. Self-efficacy and post-transplant complications were newly identified risk factors in recent studies; whereas environmental factors such as external stressors were rarely included. The variance in the definition of alcohol relapse and inconsistent identification methods make it difficult to organize a structured interventional study. A standardized stratification of post-LT alcohol relapse behaviour is needed to prior to implementing interventions that employ a harm minimization approach. Cost-effective interventions promoting self-efficacy could enable the prevention and management of alcohol relapse after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yeonsoo Jang
- College of Nursing·Mo-im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunji Kim
- College of Nursing, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
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6
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Chálim Rebelo C, Félix C, Cardoso FS, Bagulho L, Sousa M, Mendes M, Glória H, Mateus É, Mega I, Jara M, Pinto Marques H, Nolasco F, Martins A, Perdigoto R. Alcohol Consumption Post-Liver Transplantation: A Cross-Sectional Study. GE PORTUGUESE JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2023; 30:343-349. [PMID: 37868639 PMCID: PMC10586211 DOI: 10.1159/000525808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Listing patients with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) for liver transplant (LT) remains challenging especially due to the risk of alcohol resumption post-LT. We aimed to evaluate post-LT alcohol consumption at a Portuguese transplant center. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study including LT recipients from 2019 at Curry Cabral Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal. A pretested survey and a validated Portuguese translation of the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) were applied via a telephone call. Alcohol consumption was defined by patients' self-reports or a positive AUDIT. Results In 2019, 122 patients underwent LT, and 99 patients answered the survey (June 2021). The mean (SD) age was 57 (10) years, 70 patients (70.7%) were males, and 49 (49.5%) underwent ALD-related LT. During a median (IQR) follow-up of 24 (20-26) months post-index LT, 22 (22.2%) recipients consumed any amount of alcohol: 14 had a drink monthly or less and 8 drank 2-4 times/month. On drinking days, 18 patients usually consumed 1-2 drinks and the remainder no more than 3-4 drinks. One patient reported having drunk ≥6 drinks on one occasion. All post-LT drinking recipients were considered low risk (score <8) as per the AUDIT score (median [IQR] of 1 [1-2]). No patient reported alcohol-related problems, whether self-inflicted or toward others. Drinking recipients were younger (53 vs. 59 years, p = 0.020), had more non-ALD-related LT (72.7 vs. 44.2%, p = 0.018) and active smoking (31.8 vs. 10.4%, p = 0.037) than abstinent ones. Conclusion In our cohort, about a quarter of LT recipients consumed alcohol early posttransplant, all with a low-risk pattern according to the AUDIT score.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Catarina Félix
- Gastroenterology Division, Western Lisbon Hospital Center, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Filipe S. Cardoso
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luis Bagulho
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Monica Sousa
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Milena Mendes
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Helena Glória
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Élia Mateus
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Mega
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Miguel Jara
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Hugo Pinto Marques
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fernando Nolasco
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Américo Martins
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Perdigoto
- Transplant Unit, Curry Cabral Hospital, Central Lisbon University Hospital Center, Nova Medical School, Nova University, Lisbon, Portugal
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Daniel J, Dumortier J, Del Bello A, Gamon L, Molinari N, Faure S, Meszaros M, Ursic-Bedoya J, Meunier L, Monet C, Navarro F, Boillot O, Pageaux GP, Donnadieu-Rigole H. Integrating an addiction team into the management of patients transplanted for alcohol-associated liver disease reduces the risk of severe relapse. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100832. [PMID: 37681206 PMCID: PMC10480527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Liver transplantation (LT) is a last resort treatment for patients at high risk of mortality from end-stage liver disease. Over the past years, alcohol-associated liver disease has become the most frequent indication for LT in the world. The outcomes of LT for alcohol-associated liver disease are good, but return to alcohol use is detrimental for medium-term survival because of cancer development, cardiovascular events, and recurrent alcohol-associated cirrhosis. Several strategies have been developed to prevent return to alcohol use during the pre- or post-LT period, but there are no specific recommendations. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate if the integration of an addiction team in a LT unit affected the rate of severe alcohol relapse after LT. The secondary objectives were to assess the effects of addiction follow up on cardiovascular events, cancer, and overall survival. Methods This study was a retrospective comparison between centres with or without addiction monitoring. Results The study included 611 patients of which 79.4% were male with a mean age of 55.4 years at the time of LT, 190 were managed by an integrated addiction team. The overall alcohol relapse rate was 28.9% and the rate of severe relapse was 13.0%. Patients with addiction follow-up had significantly less frequent severe alcohol relapse than those in the control group (p = 0.0218). Addiction follow up (odds ratio = 0.19; p = 0.001) and age at LT (odds ratio = 1.23; p = 0.02) remained significantly associated with post-LT cardiovascular events. Conclusions Our study confirms the benefits of integrating an addiction team to reduce return to alcohol use after LT. Clinical Trials registration This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04964687). Impact and implications The main indication for liver transplantation is alcohol-associated cirrhosis. There are currently no specific recommendations on the addiction monitoring of transplant candidates, although severe return to alcohol use after liver transplantation has a negative impact on long-term survival of patients. In this study, we explored the impact of a systematic addiction intervention on the return to alcohol use rates. In our transplantation centre, we demonstrated the interest of an addiction follow up to limit the severe alcohol relapses rate. This information should be further investigated in prospective studies to validate these data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Daniel
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Department, Saint Eloi Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Jérôme Dumortier
- Fédération des Spécialités Digestives, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon et Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - Arnaud Del Bello
- Nephrology and Organ Transplant Department, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Lucie Gamon
- Medical Information Department, La Colombière Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicolas Molinari
- Medical Information Department, La Colombière Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Medical University of Montpellier (UM1), Montpellier, France
| | - Stéphanie Faure
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Department, Saint Eloi Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Magdalena Meszaros
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Department, Saint Eloi Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - José Ursic-Bedoya
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Department, Saint Eloi Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Lucy Meunier
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Department, Saint Eloi Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Clément Monet
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Montpellier, St-Eloi Hospital, University of Montpellier, PhyMedExp, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR, Montpellier, France
| | - Francis Navarro
- Medical University of Montpellier (UM1), Montpellier, France
- Department of Digestive Surgery, University Hospital of Montpellier, St-Eloi Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Olivier Boillot
- Fédération des Spécialités Digestives, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon et Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - Georges-Philippe Pageaux
- Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Department, Saint Eloi Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Medical University of Montpellier (UM1), Montpellier, France
| | - Hélène Donnadieu-Rigole
- Medical University of Montpellier (UM1), Montpellier, France
- Addictions Department, Saint Eloi Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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8
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Binder A, Fenchel J, Lang I, Batra A. The dual role dilemma of liver transplantation health care professionals. BMC Med Ethics 2023; 24:46. [PMID: 37403151 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-023-00923-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Similar to many other countries, in Germany patients with alcohol-related liver disease are obliged to prove their abstinence before being accepted on a waitlist for liver transplantation. Health care professionals (HCPs) must both treat patients and ensure that patients have proven their abstinence. The aim of this exploratory study was to develop a deeper understanding of how HCPs deal with this dual role. METHODS The study used semi-structured interviews as the source of data. 11 healthcare professionals from ten of the 22 German transplant centers were interviewed. After transcription, a qualitative content analysis was performed. RESULTS We found that these HCPs faced an ethical dilemma, as they must balance the roles of being both a treatment provider (the therapist role) and an assessor (the monitoring role). To solve this dilemma, the strategy seems to be a tendency for the HCPs to take on one dominant role amongst these two roles. HCPs who prefer to take on the therapist role seem to feel burdened by the 6-month abstinence rule and the obligation to monitor their patients. HCPs who prefer to take on the monitoring role tend to have negative assumptions about the patients. HCPs also reported the impression that patients perceive HCPs as more involved in monitoring and less open to the therapeutic role. From this it can be deduced that current regulations and structures lead both to stress for HCPs and to suboptimal therapy for those affected. CONCLUSIONS The results showed that current transplantation guidelines can have a negative impact on both patient care and the burdens on the HCPs. From our point of view, there are various changes that could be made to the current clinical practice that would help solve this dilemma. For instance, integrating other assessment criteria that are more closely adapted to the health status trajectory and psychosocial background of the individual patient would be both possible and would lead to improvements in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Binder
- Department of General Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Addiction Medicine and Addiction Research Section, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Julia Fenchel
- Department of General Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Addiction Medicine and Addiction Research Section, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Immanuel Lang
- Department of General Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Addiction Medicine and Addiction Research Section, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Anil Batra
- Department of General Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Addiction Medicine and Addiction Research Section, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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Alcohol-Related Liver Disease Including New Developments. Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:157-172. [PMID: 36400463 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of alcohol consumption, alcohol use disorder (AUD), and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) has exponentially increased over the last several years and rates continue to increase. Significant alcohol use can cause progression from steatosis in the liver to inflammation, fibrosis, and eventually cirrhosis. Additional risk factors for the progression of ALD disease include gender, race, and genetic predisposition. As such, it is essential for clinicians to understand and implement screening tools for early diagnosis of both AUD and ALD and be aware of emerging novel treatment options.
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10
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Patient reflections, challenges, and supports related to early liver transplant for severe alcohol-associated liver disease. Liver Transpl 2023:01445473-990000000-00056. [PMID: 36728621 DOI: 10.1097/lvt.0000000000000059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transplant centers conventionally require at least 6 months of alcohol abstinence before offering liver transplants for alcohol-associated liver disease. However, early liver transplant (ELT)-proceeding with a transplant when clinically necessary without first meeting the conventional requirement-is increasingly gaining attention. In our study, we qualitatively assessed ELT recipients' perceived challenges and supports regarding alcohol-associated liver disease, transplant, and posttransplant survivorship. PATIENTS AND METHODS To diversify perspectives based on sex, race/ethnicity, age, time since ELT, and pretransplant abstinence duration, we purposively recruited ELT recipients and conducted semistructured interviews. Recruitment continued until data saturation. We analyzed transcripts using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS We interviewed 20 ELT recipients between June and December 2020 and identified themes within 3 participant-characterized time periods. Three themes emerged in life before severe illness: (1) alcohol as a "constant" part of life, (2) alcohol use negatively affecting relationships and work life, and (3) feeling "stuck" in the cycle of drinking. Two themes emerged during the severe illness period: (4) rapidity of health decline and (5) navigating medical care and the 6-month abstinence requirement. Finally, in life after transplant, 4 themes emerged: (6) feelings of shame or stigma and new self-worth, (7) reconnecting with others and redefining boundaries, (8) transplant as a defining point for sobriety, and (9) work-related challenges. Overall, participants expressed gratitude for receiving a gift of life and acknowledged their responsibilities to the new liver. CONCLUSIONS ELT recipient experiences reveal complex psychosocial challenges related to addiction, inadequate support system, and stigma, particularly in the posttransplant period. The care of ELT recipients would be incomplete if focused solely on optimizing patient or graft survival.
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Matthews LA, Musto JA, Deiss-Yehiely N, Daniel KE, Lightbourn C, Garvey M, Osman F, Foley DP, Rice JR, Lucey MR. Psychosocial assessment in liver transplantation (LT): an analysis of short-term outcomes. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0017. [PMID: 36633478 PMCID: PMC9833439 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our research showed that patients with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) had more severe liver disease than those without a diagnosis of ALD yet were less likely to be selected for transplant listing due to their increased psychosocial vulnerability. This study aims to answer whether this vulnerability translates to worse short-term outcomes after transplant listing. METHODS A total of 187 patients were approved for liver transplant listing and are included in the present retrospective study. We collected dates of transplantation, retransplantation, death, and pathologic data for evidence of rejection, and reviewed alcohol biomarkers and documentation for evidence of alcohol use. RESULTS The ALD cohort had higher Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplant (SIPAT) scores (39.4 vs. 22.5, p <0.001) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD)-Na scores (25.0 vs. 18.5, p <0.001) compared with the non-ALD cohort. Forty-nine (59.7%) subjects with ALD and 60 (57.1%, p =0.71) subjects without ALD subsequently received a liver transplant. Overall mortality was similar between the 2 groups (20.7% ALD vs. 21.0% non-ALD, p =0.97). Neither the SIPAT score (HR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96-1.00, p =0.11) nor MELD-Na score (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.95-1.02, p =0.40) were associated with mortality. Patients with ALD were more likely to have alcohol biomarkers tested both before (84.1% vs. 24.8% non-ALD, p <0.001) and after liver transplantation (74.0% vs. 16.7% non-ALD, p <0.001). SIPAT score was associated with alcohol use after listing (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.0-1.07, p =0.04), although a return to alcohol use was not associated with mortality (HR: 1.60, 95% CI: 0.63-4.10, p =0.33). CONCLUSION Patients with ALD had higher psychosocial risk compared with patients without a diagnosis of ALD who were placed on the waitlist, but had similar short-term outcomes including mortality, transplantation, and rejection. Although a high SIPAT score was predictive of alcohol use, in the short-term, alcohol use after transplant listing was not associated with mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay A. Matthews
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jessica A. Musto
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Nimrod Deiss-Yehiely
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kimberly E. Daniel
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Christina Lightbourn
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Maureen Garvey
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Fay Osman
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David P. Foley
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - John R. Rice
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Michael R. Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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12
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Sedki M, Ahmed A, Goel A. Ethical and allocation issues in liver transplant candidates with alcohol related liver disease. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:26. [PMID: 35892052 PMCID: PMC9257533 DOI: 10.21037/tgh-2020-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) has become the leading indication for liver transplantation (LT) in the United States. Despite this major development, there still remains some controversy in a distinct subset of this patient population, those presenting with alcoholic hepatitis (AH). There is significant debate within the transplant community regarding acceptance criteria for patients with AH requiring LT, especially those with less than 6 months of sobriety. With that being said, LT in the setting of ALD and AH has shown an improvement in survival rates; additionally, many studies have reported that careful selection of patients with ALD has produced excellent post-transplant outcomes even if transplant occurred with less than 6 months of sobriety. In this review, we aim to discuss the ethical and allocation-associated issues that arise when considering ALD and/or AH for LT; furthermore, we delve into the history, controversies, current guidelines, and future directions of LT in this subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Sedki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Aijaz Ahmed
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Aparna Goel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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DiMartini AF, Leggio L, Singal AK. Barriers to the management of alcohol use disorder and alcohol-associated liver disease: strategies to implement integrated care models. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:186-195. [DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(21)00191-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Matthews LA, Lucey MR. Psychosocial Evaluation in Liver Transplantation for Patients with Alcohol-Related Liver Disease. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2022; 19:17-20. [PMID: 35106144 PMCID: PMC8785917 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Content available: Author Interview and Audio Recording.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael R. Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
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15
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Musto JA, Eickhoff J, Ventura-Cots M, Abraldes JG, Bosques-Padilla F, Verna EC, Brown RS, Vargas V, Altamirano J, Caballería J, Shawcross D, Louvet A, Mathurin P, Garcia-Tsao G, Schnabl B, Bataller R, Lucey MR. The Level of Alcohol Consumption in the Prior Year Does Not Impact Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Alcohol-Associated Hepatitis. Liver Transpl 2021; 27:1382-1391. [PMID: 34109723 PMCID: PMC11075741 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The 10-item Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-10) and its shorter form, AUDIT-Consumption (AUDIT-C), are questionnaires used to characterize severity of drinking. We hypothesized that liver injury and short-term outcomes of alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH) would correlate with a patient's recent alcohol consumption as determined by AUDIT-10 and AUDIT-C. We analyzed a prospective international database of patients with AH diagnosed based on the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) standard definitions. All patients were interviewed using AUDIT-10. Primary outcomes included the discriminatory ability of the AUDIT-10 and AUDIT-C scores for predicting survival status at 28 and 90 days and severity of liver injury, as measured by Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-sodium (MELD-Na). The relationship between AUDIT scores and survival status was quantified by calculating the area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic analysis. The relationship between AUDIT scores and MELD-Na was examined using correlation coefficients. In 245 patients (age range 25-75 years; 35% female), we found no correlation between AUDIT-10 or AUDIT-C scores and either 28- or 90-day mortality. Similarly, there was no correlation between AUDIT-10 and AUDIT-C and MELD-Na scores. There was a strong positive correlation between MELD-Na and 28- and 90-day mortality. Additional measures of severity of alcohol use (average grams of alcohol consumed per day, years of drinking, convictions for driving under the influence, and rehabilitation attempts) and psychosocial factors (marriage, paid employment, and level of social support) had no influence on MELD-Na. In patients presenting with AH, AUDIT-10 and AUDIT-C were predictors of neither clinical severity of liver disease nor short-term mortality, suggesting that level of alcohol consumption in the prior year is not key to the presenting features or outcome of AH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A. Musto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of
Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Jens Eickhoff
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of
Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Meritxell Ventura-Cots
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh,
PA
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron,
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Red de Enfermedades
Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan G. Abraldes
- Division of Gastroenterology, Liver Unit, University of
Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Francisco Bosques-Padilla
- Hospital Universitario, Departamento de
Gastroenterología, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey,
Mexico
| | - Elizabeth C. Verna
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of
Medicine, Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Medical
Center, New York, NY
| | - Robert S. Brown
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Weill Cornell
Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Victor Vargas
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron,
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Red de Enfermedades
Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose Altamirano
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron,
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Caballería
- Centro de Investigación en Red de Enfermedades
Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institut
d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Centro de
Investigación en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas
(CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Debbie Shawcross
- Institute of Liver Studies, King’s College London
School of Medicine at King’s College Hospital, King’s College
Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexandre Louvet
- Service des Maladies de L’appareil Digestif et
Unité INSERM, Hôpital Huriez, Lille, France
| | - Philippe Mathurin
- Service des Maladies de L’appareil Digestif et
Unité INSERM, Hôpital Huriez, Lille, France
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven, CT
- Section of Digestive Diseases, VA-CT Healthcare System,
West Haven, CT
| | | | | | - Michael R. Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of
Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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Potential Bias and Misconceptions in Liver Transplantation for Alcohol- and Obesity-Related Liver Disease. Am J Gastroenterol 2021; 116:2089-2097. [PMID: 34193797 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bias and misconceptions surrounding alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) and obesity-related liver disease (OLD) may lead to transplant listing inequities. The aim of this study was to evaluate patients, medical students, residents, fellows, and attending physicians for bias and misconceptions regarding liver transplantation (LT) for patients with ALD and OLD. METHODS Participants took a survey asking them whether patients with ALD who continue/discontinue drinking alcohol or patients with OLD who do/do not commit to a weight loss program deserve equal LT rights. A Likert scale was used for their responses. Participants also estimated 5-year survival and advanced fibrosis recurrence after LT. The primary outcome of the study was bias measured by expected agreement or disagreement to questions using a Likert scale, significant underestimation of a 5-year survival rate after LT, and significant overestimation of 5-year advanced fibrosis recurrence after LT. RESULTS A total of 381 participants were included in the analysis: 153 residents/fellows, 31 attending physicians, 98 medical students, and 99 patients. A higher percentage from all 4 participating groups either were neutral or disagreed with equal LT rights for patients with ALD who discontinue drinking compared with patients with OLD who commit to weight loss program. The attending physician group was the only group with a majority estimating >60% 5-year survival after LT in patients with ALD and OLD (P < 0.05). All 4 groups had a majority estimate >20% 5-year advanced fibrosis recurrence in patients with ALD and OLD (P > 0.05). DISCUSSION There seems to be current bias and misconceptions regarding LT for patients with ALD and OLD.
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Sandal S, Chen T, Cantarovich M. Evaluation of Transplant Candidates With a History of Nonadherence: An Opinion Piece. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2021; 8:2054358121990137. [PMID: 33598301 PMCID: PMC7863559 DOI: 10.1177/2054358121990137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shaifali Sandal
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tianyan Chen
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marcelo Cantarovich
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
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18
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Joo DJ. [Current Status of Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation for Alcoholic Liver Disease in Korea in MELD Era]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2021; 77:4-11. [PMID: 33495428 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2020.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The organ allocation system should be fair and efficient to predict the prognosis of patients with end-stage organ failure. The liver allocation system in Korea was changed to the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score system from Child-Turcotte-Pugh score-based status system in 2016. Since then, there have been some changes in matching liver graft to recipients in deceased liver transplantation. The severity of sickness of the end-stage liver failure patients has been increased in the MELD era than before. Since 2013, liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease has been gradually increasing in Korea. We should take proper evaluation into consideration when we decide early liver transplantation particularly for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis, who have a high MELD score. Above all, overcoming organ shortage, it is necessary for us to try to increase the number of deceased donors to meet the need for liver transplantation for end-stage liver disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Jin Joo
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Characteristics of Psychosocial Factors in Liver Transplantation Candidates with Alcoholic Liver Disease before Transplantation: A Retrospective Study in a Single Center in Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228696. [PMID: 33238532 PMCID: PMC7700481 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is an essential treatment for end-stage alcoholic liver disease (ALD). The patients’ psychosocial condition plays a vital role in post-transplantation prognosis. A survey of the candidates’ psychosocial wellbeing is necessary before LT. This study aims to investigate the psychosocial characteristics, including the depression degree, family function, alcohol use duration, and alcohol abstinence period, of LT candidates with ALD. In addition, 451 candidates for LT due to ALD were enrolled. They received psychosocial evaluations, including depression scale (Hamilton depression rating scale) and family functioning assessment (adaptability, partnership, growth, affection, resolve (APGAR) index). The test scores were analyzed according to age, alcohol use duration, and alcohol abstinence period. The Hamilton depression rating scale (HAM-D) score and the family APGAR index score differentiated significantly according to the age, alcohol use duration, and abstinence period of the LT candidates. The patients with shorter alcohol use duration tended to have more severe depressive symptoms and poorer family support. The younger patients showed a significantly shorter abstinence period, more severe depression, and poorer family functioning than older patients. The younger ALD patients and patients with shorter alcohol use duration showed an increased severity of depression before transplantation. They need more mental health care over time.
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Notini L, Vasileva D, Orchanian-Cheff A, Buchman DZ. Ethical issues associated with solid organ transplantation and substance use: a scoping review. Monash Bioeth Rev 2019; 37:111-135. [PMID: 31749129 DOI: 10.1007/s40592-019-00100-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
While solid organ transplantation for patients with substance use issues has attracted ethical discussion, a typology of the ethics themes has not been articulated in the literature. We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature on solid organ transplantation and substance use published between January 1997 and April 2016. We aimed to identify and develop a typology of the main ethical themes discussed in this literature and to identify gaps worthy of future research. Seventy articles met inclusion criteria and underwent inductive content analysis. Four main ethical themes were identified: (1) personal responsibility; (2) utility; (3) moral character; and (4) fairness. Each theme had multiple sub-themes and there was substantial overlap between themes. This scoping review identified a disproportionate emphasis in the literature regarding personal responsibility, which was referenced by each of the other themes, and a narrow focus on alcohol and liver. We recommend future research further investigate these connections between ethical themes and focus on ethical issues associated with transplants from organ groups other than liver for patients who use substances other than alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Notini
- Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Suite 754, Toronto, ON, M5T 1P8, Canada
- Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne, 185 Pelham Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Biomedical Ethics Research Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, 50 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | | | - Ani Orchanian-Cheff
- Library and Information Services, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Z Buchman
- Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Suite 754, Toronto, ON, M5T 1P8, Canada.
- Bioethics Department, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, 399 Bathurst Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada.
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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21
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Lindenger C, Castedal M, Schult A, Åberg F. Long-term survival and predictors of relapse and survival after liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease. Scand J Gastroenterol 2018; 53:1553-1561. [PMID: 30678557 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2018.1536226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Studies of predictive factors of alcohol recidivism and survival post-LT are not up-to-date. With evolving LT activity and with longer-term outcomes becoming increasingly available, re-evaluating post-LT outcomes is imperative. We analyzed recent data on survival, alcohol recurrence and predictive factors. METHODS We compared long-term survival among 159 consecutive ALD patients transplanted 2003-2016 with 159 propensity-score matched controls transplanted for non-ALD. Alcohol 'slips' (occasional lapse) and relapse to moderate or harmful drinking were assessed from medical records and structured forms filled in by home-district physicians, and analyzed by competing-risk and multivariate Cox regression analyses. RESULTS Patient and graft survival at 10 years were 75 and 69% in the ALD group and 65 and 63% in the control group (p=.06 and .36). In ALD patients, the 10-year cumulative rate of alcohol slip was 52% and of relapse, 37%. Duration of pre-LT abstinence (HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.94-0.99) and a history of prior alcohol relapses (HR 3.05, 95% CI 1.41-6.60) were significant predictors of relapse, but failed to predict death/graft loss. Patients with <6 months abstinence relapsed sooner than those with 7-24 months abstinence, but 10-year relapse rates were similar (40-50%). Ten-year relapse rate with 2-5-year pre-LT abstinence was 21%, and with >5-year abstinence, 0%. In patients with <6 months pre-LT abstinence, years of heavy drinking, prior addiction treatments, and lack of children predicted inferior survival. CONCLUSIONS Although 37% of our ALD patients relapsed to drinking by 10 years post-LT, 14-year survival was not significantly different from survival in non-ALD patients. Short duration of pre-LT abstinence and prior relapses predicted post-LT relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Lindenger
- a The Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden
| | - Maria Castedal
- a The Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden
| | - Andreas Schult
- a The Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden
| | - Fredrik Åberg
- a The Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg , Sweden
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22
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Al-Saeedi M, Barout MH, Probst P, Khajeh E, Weiss KH, Diener MK, Mehrabi A. Meta-analysis of patient survival and rate of alcohol relapse in liver-transplanted patients for acute alcoholic hepatitis. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2018; 403:825-836. [PMID: 30349998 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-018-1720-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This review investigated survival and alcoholic relapse following liver transplantation (LT) in patients with severe acute alcoholic hepatitis (AH) without 6 months of alcohol abstinence. METHODS All studies comparing acute AH patients undergoing LT with a control group were included. CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases were searched. Survival benefits or odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were assessed by meta-analyses using a random effects model. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017057971). According to the search results, two separate meta-analyses were performed: meta-analysis A compared early LT with medical therapy alone in patients with severe AH that were not responding to medical therapy and meta-analysis B compared LT outcome in patients with AH and chronic alcoholic cirrhosis (AC). RESULTS The search yielded 2232 articles. Eight studies were included in the two meta-analyses-two studies in meta-analysis A and six studies in meta-analysis B. The two studies (n = 70) included in meta-analysis A revealed that 1-year patient survival was significantly higher in the LT group compared with the medical therapy-alone group (survival benefit, 15.88; 95% CI, 3.98-63.35; p < 0.0001). The six studies in meta-analysis B (including 1091 patients) showed that 1-year (survival benefit, 1.65; 95% CI, 0.95-2.89; p = 0.08), 3-year (survival benefit, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.79-2.18; p = 0.30), and 5-year survival (survival benefit, 1.54; 95% CI, 0.92-2.56; p = 0.10) were not significantly different between AH and AC groups. There was no significant difference in the rate of alcohol relapse between the groups (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.53-2.96; p = 0.60). CONCLUSIONS Early LT is a life-saving treatment for AH patients that do not respond to medical therapy. The chance of alcohol relapse after LT is not increased in selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Saeedi
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Muhammed H Barout
- The Study Center of the German Surgical Society (SDGC), University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130/3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pascal Probst
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- The Study Center of the German Surgical Society (SDGC), University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130/3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elias Khajeh
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karl Heinz Weiss
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Markus K Diener
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- The Study Center of the German Surgical Society (SDGC), University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130/3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arianeb Mehrabi
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Mellinger JL, Volk ML. Transplantation for Alcohol-related Liver Disease: Is It Fair? Alcohol Alcohol 2018; 53:173-177. [PMID: 29236944 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agx105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) is the second leading cause of liver transplantation performed in the USA and Europe. We aimed to provide a narrative review of the major ethical issues governing transplantation for ALD. Methods We performed a narrative review of the ethical concepts in organ allocation for ALD, including alcoholic hepatitis. Results Ethical concerns regarding organ allocation for ALD involve issues of urgency, utility and justice. Post-transplant outcomes for ALD patients are good and ethical considerations limiting organs solely because of alcohol etiology do not bear scrutiny. Conclusion ALD will continue to be a major cause for liver failure. The main criteria for transplant in ALD should be the patient's risk of return to harmful drinking, alongside standard assessments of physical and psychosocial fitness for transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Mellinger
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan Hospitals, 1500 Medical Center Dr., 3912 Taubman Center, SPC 5362, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5362, USA
| | - Michael L Volk
- Division of Gastroenterology and Transplantation Institute, Loma Linda University Medical, Loma Linda University Health, 25865 Barton Road, Suite 101, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
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24
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Marroni CA, Fleck Jr ADM, Fernandes SA, Galant LH, Mucenic M, de Mattos Meine MH, Mariante-Neto G, Brandão ABDM. Liver transplantation and alcoholic liver disease: History, controversies, and considerations. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:2785-2805. [PMID: 30018475 PMCID: PMC6048431 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i26.2785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol consumption accounts for 3.8% of annual global mortality worldwide, and the majority of these deaths are due to alcoholic liver disease (ALD), mainly alcoholic cirrhosis. ALD is one of the most common indications for liver transplantation (LT). However, it remains a complicated topic on both medical and ethical grounds, as it is seen by many as a "self-inflicted disease". One of the strongest ethical arguments against LT for ALD is the probability of relapse. However, ALD remains a common indication for LT worldwide. For a patient to be placed on an LT waiting list, 6 mo of abstinence must have been achieved for most LT centers. However, this "6-mo rule" is an arbitrary threshold and has never been shown to affect survival, sobriety, or other outcomes. Recent studies have shown similar survival rates among individuals who undergo LT for ALD and those who undergo LT for other chronic causes of end-stage liver disease. There are specific factors that should be addressed when evaluating LT patients with ALD because these patients commonly have a high prevalence of multisystem alcohol-related changes. Risk factors for relapse include the presence of anxiety or depressive disorders, short pre-LT duration of sobriety, and lack of social support. Identification of risk factors and strengthening of the social support system may decrease relapse among these patients. Family counseling for LT candidates is highly encouraged to prevent alcohol consumption relapse. Relapse has been associated with unique histopathological changes, graft damage, graft loss, and even decreased survival in some studies. Research has demonstrated the importance of a multidisciplinary evaluation of LT candidates. Complete abstinence should be attempted to overcome addiction issues and to allow spontaneous liver recovery. Abstinence is the cornerstone of ALD therapy. Psychotherapies, including 12-step facilitation therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and motivational enhancement therapy, help support abstinence. Nutritional therapy helps to reverse muscle wasting, weight loss, vitamin deficiencies, and trace element deficiencies associated with ALD. For muscular recovery, supervised physical activity has been shown to lead to a gain in muscle mass and improvement of functional activity. Early LT for acute alcoholic hepatitis has been the subject of recent clinical studies, with encouraging results in highly selected patients. The survival rates after LT for ALD are comparable to those of patients who underwent LT for other indications. Patients that undergo LT for ALD and survive over 5 years have a higher risk of cardiorespiratory disease, cerebrovascular events, and de novo malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Augusto Marroni
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre 90430-080, RS, Brazil
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
| | - Alfeu de Medeiros Fleck Jr
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Alves Fernandes
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre 90430-080, RS, Brazil
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
- Nutrition at the Centro Universitário Metodista (IPA), Porto Alegre 90420-060, RS, Brazil
| | - Lucas Homercher Galant
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre 90430-080, RS, Brazil
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
| | - Marcos Mucenic
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
| | - Mario Henrique de Mattos Meine
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Mariante-Neto
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre 90430-080, RS, Brazil
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
| | - Ajacio Bandeira de Mello Brandão
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre 90430-080, RS, Brazil
- Liver Transplant Adult Group, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90035-072, RS, Brazil
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25
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Schieber K, Lindner M, Sowa JP, Gerken G, Scherbaum N, Kahraman A, Canbay A, Erim Y. Self-reports on symptoms of alcohol abuse: liver transplant patients versus rehabilitation therapy patients. Prog Transplant 2018; 25:203-9. [PMID: 26308778 DOI: 10.7182/pit2015618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Context-Self-report measures often underestimate the severity of symptoms of alcohol abuse. It is generally supposed that patients who abuse alcohol tend to minimize their drinking behavior. However, the validity of self-reports also can be influenced by external factors such as the setting. Objective-To investigate how the setting influences self-reporting on symptoms of alcohol abuse in patients with alcoholic liver disease. Design, Setting and Participants-Cross-sectional study in patients before liver transplant (n = 40) and patients in rehabilitation therapy (n = 44). Main Outcome Measure-Scores on the Munich Alcoholism Test, which consists of a self-report-scale and an expert-rating scale. Results-The discrepancy in scores on the self-report scale and the expert-rating scale differed significantly between patients before liver transplant and patients in rehabilitation therapy. Furthermore, patients in the rehabilitation therapy group reported higher alcoholism scores on the self-report questionnaire than did patients before liver transplant, but the groups did not differ in the expert evaluation value. Conclusion-The transplant setting seems to evoke minimizing in self-reports in patients with alcohol abuse. Minimizing or denying symptoms of alcohol abuse does not seem to be a specific characteristic of persons with alcohol abuse, as it is also caused by the circumstances. In the transplant setting, more attention should be given to the psychologically difficult situation for patients with potential alcohol abuse. Implementation of psychoeducational interventions in the treatment process before transplant could be a first step toward reaching this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Schieber
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
| | - Marion Lindner
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
| | - Jan-Peter Sowa
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
| | - Guido Gerken
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
| | - Norbert Scherbaum
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
| | - Alisan Kahraman
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
| | - Ali Canbay
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
| | - Yesim Erim
- University Hospital of Erlangen (KS, YE), University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen (ML, J-PS, GG, NS, AK, AC), Germany
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26
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Lucey MR. Redefining Successful Treatment of Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis. Hepatology 2017; 66:1722-1723. [PMID: 28741287 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ronan Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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Donnadieu-Rigole H, Perney P, Ursic-Bedoya J, Faure S, Pageaux GP. Addictive behaviors in liver transplant recipients: The real problem? World J Hepatol 2017; 9:953-958. [PMID: 28839515 PMCID: PMC5550760 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v9.i22.953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) is the gold standard treatment for end-stage liver disease. Whatever the primary indication of LT, substance abuse after surgery may decrease survival rates and quality of life. Prevalence of severe alcohol relapse is between 11 and 26%, and reduces life expectancy regardless of the primary indication of LT. Many patients on waiting lists for LT are smokers and this is a major risk factor for both malignant tumors and cardiovascular events post-surgery. The aim of this review is to describe psychoactive substance consumption after LT, and to assess the impact on liver transplant recipients. This review describes data about alcohol and illicit drug use by transplant recipients and suggests guidelines for behavior management after surgery. The presence of an addiction specialist in a LT team seems to be very important.
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Fleming MF, Smith MJ, Oslakovic E, Lucey MR, Vue JX, Al-Saden P, Levitsky J. Phosphatidylethanol Detects Moderate-to-Heavy Alcohol Use in Liver Transplant Recipients. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2017; 41:857-862. [PMID: 28196282 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol-dependent liver transplantation (LT) patients who resume alcohol consumption are at risk for a number of alcohol-related problems including liver injury and liver failure. Post-LT patients are strongly advised to remain abstinent. However, we do not know how well this population complies due to a lack of valid methods (self-report and/or biomarkers) to identify alcohol use. Studies suggest as many as 50% resume alcohol use within 5 years. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a new cell-membrane phospholipid biomarker to identify alcohol use in the past 28 days. This prospective study followed 213 LT recipients at 2 U.S. liver transplant centers. METHODS Sample included 213 LT subjects; 70.9% (n = 151/213) had a history of alcohol dependence prior to transplantation and 29.1% (n = 62/213) served as non-alcohol-dependent controls. Subjects participated in face-to-face interviews to assess alcohol use using a 30-day calendar. The protocol called for collecting blood samples at baseline, 6-, and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS Seventy percent (149/213) who reported no alcohol use had consistently negative PEth levels (<8 ng/ml). A total of 26.4% (57/213), 44 alcohol-dependent patients and 13 controls, had a positive PEth test of >8 ng/ml either at baseline and/or during the follow-up period. Alcohol-dependent subjects (23.8%; n = 36/151) and 16.1% (n = 10/62) controls reported no alcohol use but had at least 1 positive PEth test. Of the 11.2% (24/213) post-LT subjects who reported recent alcohol use, over half (11/24) had a positive PEth. The 13 self-reported alcohol users with a negative PEth level reported insufficient drinking to trigger PEth formation. CONCLUSIONS Adoption of PEth as part of routine posttransplant care of LT recipients will enable early identification of patients at risk of alcohol use and facilitate abstinence in patients with a history of alcohol dependence and alcohol-related liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Francis Fleming
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Matthew J Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Erika Oslakovic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Michael R Lucey
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jenny X Vue
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Patrice Al-Saden
- Transplant Surgery Division (PA-S), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Josh Levitsky
- Medicine-Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Surgery-Organ Transplantation, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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29
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Heyes CM, Schofield T, Gribble R, Day CA, Haber PS. Reluctance to Accept Alcohol Treatment by Alcoholic Liver Disease Transplant Patients: A Qualitative Study. Transplant Direct 2016; 2:e104. [PMID: 27795986 PMCID: PMC5068203 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000000617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation (LT) is the optimum treatment for patients with end-stage alcoholic liver disease (ALD). However, despite a recognized risk of relapse to harmful drinking, ALD transplant patients are reluctant to use speciality alcohol treatment to support their abstinence, even when offered within the LT context. This study aimed to understand and identify factors contributing to alcohol treatment reluctance by ALD patients undergoing transplantation. METHODS We conducted an in-depth qualitative study of ALD transplant patients. Minimally structured face-to-face interviews explored participants' alcohol-related experiences and their reasons for not using alcohol treatment during the course of their transplantation. Thematic analysis was used to analyze and interpret interview data to understand treatment reluctance based on participants' experiences. RESULTS Five major themes were identified among 3 subgroups of patients (pretransplant and posttransplant abstainers and posttransplant relapsers): (i) the "contract" of mandatory abstinence, (ii) the "gap in the program" involving the lack of candour between patient and staff about alcohol-related matters and the lack of addiction services, (iii) a preference by participants to self-manage their alcohol use disorder, (iv) social support as a facilitator of abstinence and the risk of relapse when social support is diminished, and (v) the fear of stigmatization. Each of these factors were dynamically interrelated and differed slightly for each subgroup. CONCLUSIONS The LT services may benefit from the inclusion of integrated specialist addiction services in their model of care. Such an approach may enhance the acceptability of alcohol treatment and reduce the risk of relapse among ALD transplant participants, especially for those whose social supports have diminished.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy M. Heyes
- Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, Australia
| | - Toni Schofield
- Discipline of Behavioural and Social Sciences in Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert Gribble
- Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Australian National Liver Transplant Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Carolyn A. Day
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul S. Haber
- Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Mental Health and Substance Use, Australia
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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30
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Lauerer M, Kaiser K, Nagel E. Organ Transplantation in the Face of Donor Shortage - Ethical Implications with a Focus on Liver Allocation. Visc Med 2016; 32:278-285. [PMID: 27722165 DOI: 10.1159/000446382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transplantation medicine is associated with several ethical issues related to the lack of organs. Major questions concern the regulations for giving permission for organ removal, informing the public about organ donation, setting of organ allocation priorities, waiting list access, and strategies to counteract scarcity. METHODS This contribution is based on analyses of legal regulations, guidelines of self-regulatory bodies, administrative data, and literature from medical, normative, and empiric disciplines. It addresses the above-mentioned issues descriptively with a focus on Germany and liver transplantation. RESULTS The basic principle of beneficence justifies a shift from voluntariness towards an obligation to document one's decision regarding organ donation. Organ allocation is obviously tangent to fundamental values and concepts of justice. At that, there is no consistent agreement on whether to prioritize the sickest patient or to maximize the overall health benefit. Restrictions relating to waiting list access are the subject of controversies. The reasons for denial of access are largely related to high demands on the prospect of success. Strategies to counteract organ scarcity partly conflict with the respect for autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, or justice. CONCLUSION We propose to focus on recent most promising strategies to counteract scarcity in the short-term: demanding a documented decision on organ donation and an orientation towards the Spanish model of organization. Concepts for waiting list access should constantly be reviewed considering all medical evidence and must not be based on moralism. Moreover, we suggest to consider public preferences for organ allocation and strengthen the confidence in transplantation medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lauerer
- Institut für Medizinmanagement und Gesundheitswissenschaften, Universität Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Katharina Kaiser
- Institut für Medizinmanagement und Gesundheitswissenschaften, Universität Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Eckhard Nagel
- Institut für Medizinmanagement und Gesundheitswissenschaften, Universität Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
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31
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Lucey MR, Rice JP. Alcoholic relapse damages liver allografts. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:720-2. [PMID: 27043926 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - John P Rice
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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32
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Heyes CM, Baillie AJ, Schofield T, Gribble R, Haber PS. The Reluctance of Liver Transplant Participants with Alcoholic Liver Disease to Participate in Treatment for Their Alcohol Use Disorder: An Issue of Treatment Matching? ALCOHOLISM TREATMENT QUARTERLY 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/07347324.2016.1148515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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33
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Lucey MR, Rice JP. Liver Transplantation for Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis Crosses the Atlantic. Am J Transplant 2016; 16:739-40. [PMID: 26780360 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 10/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M R Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - J P Rice
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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34
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Im GY, Kim-Schluger L, Shenoy A, Schubert E, Goel A, Friedman SL, Florman S, Schiano TD. Early Liver Transplantation for Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis in the United States--A Single-Center Experience. Am J Transplant 2016; 16:841-9. [PMID: 26710309 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 08/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Early liver transplantation (LT) in European centers reportedly improved survival in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH) not responding to medical therapy. Our aim was to determine if a strategy of early LT for severe AH could be applied successfully in the United States. We reviewed 111 patients with severe AH at our center from January 2012 to January 2015. The primary end point was mortality at 6 months or early LT, with a secondary end point of alcohol relapse after LT. Survival was compared between those receiving early LT and matched patients who did not. Using a process similar to the European trial, 94 patients with severe AH not responding to medical therapy were evaluated for early LT. Overall, 9 (9.6%) candidates with favorable psychosocial profiles underwent early LT, comprising 3% of all adult LT during the study period. The 6-month survival rate was higher among those receiving early LT compared with matched controls (89% vs 11%, p<0.001). Eight recipients are alive at a median of 735 days with 1 alcohol relapse. Early LT for severe AH can achieve excellent clinical outcomes with low impact on the donor pool and low rates of alcohol relapse in highly selected patients in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Y Im
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - L Kim-Schluger
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - A Shenoy
- Department of Psychiatry, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - E Schubert
- Social Work Services, The Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - A Goel
- Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - S L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - S Florman
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - T D Schiano
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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35
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Marroni CA. Management of alcohol recurrence before and after liver transplantation. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2015; 39 Suppl 1:S109-14. [PMID: 26193869 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2015.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide and can lead to steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The primary effective treatment for patients with ALD is total alcohol abstinence, although sometimes impossible, liver transplant (LT) is the gold standard treatment for end-stage ALD, which represents the second most common diagnosis among patients undergoing this procedure. Liver transplant in ALD has better results than those for other etiologies. The alcohol consumption recidivism after LT is frequent and 10% to 15% of these resume heavy drinking with consequences to the new liver. The "6-month rule" of abstinence is an arbitrary threshold used in many transplant centers and has never been shown to affect survival after LT. The optimal abstinence period in pre-transplant remains unclear. The patients in the pre- and post-transplant period need evaluation of a multidisciplinary team, as psychiatrist, addiction specialists, including counselling and attendance to support groups. The impact of alcohol relapse on post-transplant outcomes is not entirely clear but is worse with continuing heavy drinking, with poorer survival beyond the fifth post-transplant year malignancy and cardiovascular disease and not recurrent liver failure. Acute alcoholic hepatitis, in careful selected cases, should be transplanted and have comparable survival outcomes. Prevention of alcoholic recidivism has proved to be the most important treatment after liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Augusto Marroni
- Liver Transplant Adult Group-Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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36
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Obed A, Stern S, Jarrad A, Lorf T. Six month abstinence rule for liver transplantation in severe alcoholic liver disease patients. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:4423-4426. [PMID: 25892898 PMCID: PMC4394109 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i14.4423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2014] [Revised: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is the second most common diagnosis among patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT). The recovery results of patients transplanted for ALD are often at least as good as those of patients transplanted for other diagnoses and better than those suffering from hepatitis C virus, cryptogenic cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma. In the case of medically non-responding patients with severe acute alcoholic hepatitis or acute-on chronic liver failure, the refusal of LT is often based on the lack of the required alcohol abstinence period of six months. The obligatory abidance of a period of abstinence as a transplant eligibility requirement for medically non-responding patients seems unfair and inhumane, since the majority of these patients will not survive the six-month abstinence period. Data from various studies have challenged the 6-mo rule, while excellent survival results of LT have been observed in selected patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis not responding to medical therapy. Patients with severe advanced ALD should have legal access to LT. The mere lack of pre-LT abstinence should not be an obstacle for being listed.
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37
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Kawaguchi Y, Sugawara Y, Akamatsu N, Kaneko J, Tanaka T, Tamura S, Aoki T, Sakamoto Y, Hasegawa K, Kokudo N. Perceptions of post-transplant recidivism in liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease. World J Hepatol 2014; 6:812-817. [PMID: 25429319 PMCID: PMC4243155 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v6.i11.812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is regarded as a common indication for liver transplantation (LT), debatable issues exist on the requirement for preceding alcoholic abstinence, appropriate indication criteria, predictive factors for alcoholic recidivism, and outcomes following living-donor LT. In most institutions, an abstinence period of six months before LT has been adopted as a mandatory selection criterion. Data indicating that pre-transplant abstinence is an associated predictive factor for alcoholic recidivism supports the reasoning behind this. However, conclusive evidence about the benefit of adopting an abstinence period is yet to be established. On the other hand, a limited number of reports available on living-donor LT experiences for ALD patients suggest that organ donations from relatives have no suppressive effect on alcoholic recidivism. Prevention of alcoholic recidivism has proved to be the most important treatment after LT based on the resultant inferior long-term outcome of patients. Further evaluations are still needed to establish strategies before and after LT for ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Sugawara
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Akamatsu
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Junichi Kaneko
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Tanaka
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Sumihito Tamura
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Taku Aoki
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Sakamoto
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Hasegawa
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- Yoshikuni Kawaguchi, Yasuhiko Sugawara, Nobuhisa Akamatsu, Junichi Kaneko, Sumihito Tamura, Taku Aoki, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Norihiro Kokudo, Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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Piano S, Marchioro L, Gola E, Rosi S, Morando F, Cavallin M, Sticca A, Fasolato S, Forza G, Chiara Frigo A, Plebani M, Zanus G, Cillo U, Gatta A, Angeli P. Assessment of alcohol consumption in liver transplant candidates and recipients: the best combination of the tools available. Liver Transpl 2014; 20:815-22. [PMID: 24692331 DOI: 10.1002/lt.23881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The detection of alcohol consumption in liver transplant candidates (LTCs) and liver transplant recipients (LTRs) is required to enable a proper assessment of transplant eligibility and early management of alcohol relapse, respectively. In this clinical setting, urinary ethyl glucuronide (uEtG), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test for Alcohol Consumption (AUDIT-c), serum ethanol, urinary ethanol, carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT), and other indirect markers of alcohol consumption were evaluated and compared prospectively in 121 LTCs and LTRs. Alcohol consumption was diagnosed when AUDIT-c results were positive or it was confirmed by a patient's history in response to abnormal results. Alcohol consumption was found in 30.6% of the patients. uEtG was found to be the strongest marker of alcohol consumption (odds ratio = 414.5, P < 0.001) and provided a more accurate prediction rate of alcohol consumption [area under receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve = 0.94] than CDT (area under ROC curve = 0.63, P < 0.001) and AUDIT-c (area under ROC curve = 0.73, P < 0.001). The combination of uEtG and AUDIT-c showed higher accuracy in detecting alcohol consumption in comparison with the combination of CDT and AUDIT-c (area under ROC curve = 0.98 versus 0.80, P < 0.001). Furthermore, uEtG was the most useful marker for detecting alcohol consumption in patients with negative AUDIT-c results. In conclusion, the combination of AUDIT-c and uEtG improves the detection of alcohol consumption in LTCs and LTRs. Therefore, they should be used routinely for these patients.
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Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is the major cause of life-threatening liver disease in Western countries. Abstinence from alcohol is the foundation of all treatment programmes for patients with ALD. Liver transplantation is a valuable option for patients with life-threatening ALD. Although the role of liver transplantation in the treatment of alcoholic hepatitis that is unresponsive to medical therapy is controversial, the latest prospective studies support this approach. No single measure gives a reliable estimate of the risk of drinking relapses before or after liver transplantation, but careful evaluation by an addiction specialist with a particular interest in transplant medicine is the best available approach. Survival, both on the waiting list and after the operation, is better in patients with ALD than in patients with HCV infection. Alcohol relapse may lead to liver damage and increased mortality, albeit usually after many years of renewed drinking. After liver transplantation, patients with ALD have increased rates of mortality and morbidity that are attributable to cardiovascular disease and new-onset cancers of the aerodigestive tract. The latter are probably linked to the high prevalence of smoking in this population. Cessation of smoking is thus an important goal in the care of patients with ALD after they have undergone liver transplantation.
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Rodrigue JR, Hanto DW, Curry MP. The Alcohol Relapse Risk Assessment: a scoring system to predict the risk of relapse to any alcohol use after liver transplant. Prog Transplant 2014; 23:310-8. [PMID: 24311394 DOI: 10.7182/pit2013604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Alcohol relapse after liver transplant heightens concern about recurrent disease, nonadherence to the immunosuppression regimen, and death. OBJECTIVES To develop a scoring system to stratify risk of alcohol relapse after liver transplant. DESIGN Retrospective medical record review. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS All adult liver transplants performed from May 2002 to February 2011 at a single center in the United States. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The incidence of return to any alcohol consumption after liver transplant. RESULTS Thirty-four percent (40/118) of patients with a history of alcohol abuse/dependency relapsed to use of any alcohol after liver transplant. Nine of 25 hypothesized risk factors were predictive of alcohol relapse after liver transplant: absence of hepatocellular carcinoma, tobacco dependence, continued alcohol use after liver disease diagnosis, low motivation for alcohol treatment, poor stress management skills, no rehabilitation relationship, limited social support, lack of nonmedical behavioral consequences, and continued engagement in social activities with alcohol present. Each independent predictor was assigned an Alcohol Relapse Risk Assessment (ARRA) risk value of 1 point, and patients were classified into 1 of 4 groups by ARRA score: ARRA I = 0, ARRA II = 1 to 3, ARRA III = 4 to 6, and ARRA IV = 7 to 9. Patients in the 2 higher ARRA classifications had significantly higher rates of alcohol relapse and were more likely to return to pretransplant levels of drinking. CONCLUSION Alcohol relapse rates are moderately high after liver transplant. The ARRA is a valid and practical tool for identifying pretransplant patients with alcohol abuse or dependency at elevated risk of any alcohol use after liver transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Rodrigue
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and the Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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41
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Martin P, DiMartini A, Feng S, Brown R, Fallon M. Evaluation for liver transplantation in adults: 2013 practice guideline by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the American Society of Transplantation. Hepatology 2014; 59:1144-65. [PMID: 24716201 DOI: 10.1002/hep.26972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 682] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Burra
- De: Unidad de Gastroenterología y Trasplantes Multiviscerales, Servicio de Cirugía, Oncología y GastroenterologíaHospital Universitario de PaduaPaduaItalia, y
| | - Michael R. Lucey
- Servicio de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Departamento de MedicinaUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWI, EE. UU.
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43
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Burra P, Lucey MR. Liver transplantation for alcoholic liver disease. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2013; 2:92-95. [PMID: 30992833 PMCID: PMC6448626 DOI: 10.1002/cld.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Burra
- Gastroenterology, Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Department of Surgery, Oncology, and Gastroenterology, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Michael R. Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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44
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Grover S, Sarkar S. Liver transplant-psychiatric and psychosocial aspects. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2012; 2:382-92. [PMID: 25755459 PMCID: PMC3940381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2012.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2012] [Accepted: 08/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation is a life saving surgical procedure that is associated with improved longevity and enhanced quality of life. The number of successful liver transplants is growing worldwide. The procedure requires a dedicated and trained team of experts. A psychiatrist plays an important role in such a team. Psychiatric and psychosocial assessment is considered imperative to evaluate the candidate's suitability as a transplant recipient. Many psychiatric disorders may lead to the need for liver transplant, and if kept unchecked can adversely affect outcomes. Psychiatric problems arising in the post-transplant period may also require intervention of the psychiatrist. The donor too needs to be evaluated adequately to assess for psychological fitness for the procedure. This article provides broad overview of the various psychiatric and psychosocial issues pertaining to liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Grover
- Address for correspondence: Dr. Sandeep Grover, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh 160012, India. Tel.: +91 172 2756807 (O); fax: +91 172 2744401, +91 172 2745078.
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45
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Leong J, Im GY. Evaluation and selection of the patient with alcoholic liver disease for liver transplant. Clin Liver Dis 2012; 16:851-63. [PMID: 23101986 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2012.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver cirrhosis is the second most common indication for liver transplantation in the United States. Studies have shown that these patients do as well as those transplanted for nonalcoholic liver disease. Recently, transplantation of patients with alcoholic liver disease has come under closer scrutiny following an article in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrating comparable outcomes and survival in patients transplanted for acute alcoholic hepatitis. This article reviews the literature and data on the evaluation and selection of patients with alcoholic cirrhosis for liver transplant, and discusses the most recent indication (once a contraindication), acute alcoholic hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Leong
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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46
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Abstract
In this article the epidemiology of substance use and substance disorders in the United States and their association with liver disease are reviewed. The relevance of tobacco use and issues of candidacy as it pertains to substance use are discussed. The use of alcohol while on the waitlist and short sobriety are also addressed. The merits of monitoring of patients are discussed, and the outcomes of these patients after liver transplantation are examined. The article concludes with a summary of recommendations for clinicians working with these patients and possible future directions for both clinical care and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea DiMartini
- Consultation Liaison to the Liver Transplant Program, Starzl Transplant Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA 15213, USA.
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47
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Hartl J, Scherer MN, Loss M, Schnitzbauer A, Farkas S, Baier L, Szecsey A, Schoelmerich J, Schlitt HJ, Kirchner GI. Strong predictors for alcohol recidivism after liver transplantation: non-acceptance of the alcohol problem and abstinence of <3 months. Scand J Gastroenterol 2011; 46:1257-66. [PMID: 21815863 DOI: 10.3109/00365521.2011.603160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol-toxic liver cirrhosis (ALC) is one of the main indications for liver transplantation (LT). The aim of the study is to define predictors for alcohol recidivism and to identify the outcome and quality of life of such patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS From March 2003 to July 2009, 226 patients underwent LT in our centre. In 53% liver cirrhosis was caused by alcohol abuse (sole/cofactor). Outcome and alcohol recidivism were assessed using patients' records, laboratory tests and interviews (patient, family members and family doctor). Furthermore, patients received an SF-36 quality of life and a self-designed questionnaire anonymously. RESULTS Mean follow-up after LT was 31 + 23 months. The 5-year survival rate after LT in patients with ALC was significantly better compared to patients with other indications (78 vs. 64%; p = 0.016). Quality of life of both patient groups was comparable. After LT, alcohol recidivism rate was 16%. Patients with an alcohol abstinence of <3 months before LT had a significantly higher (p = 0.012) rate of alcohol recidivism in comparison to those with an abstinence of >3 months. Another predictor for alcohol recidivism was the patients' non-acceptance of having an alcohol problem before LT (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS ALC is a good indication for LT. An alcohol abstinence of <3 months before LT and a non-acceptance of having an alcohol problem are strong predictors for alcohol recidivism after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Hartl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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48
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Abstract
Alcoholic hepatitis is a distinct subset of alcoholic liver disease. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the two main pathogenetic mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis. Patients with mild disease usually improve with conservative management. However, about 30-50% of those with severe disease succumb to their illness within about 1 month. Therefore, assessment of disease severity is important and practical issue. Currently, hepatologists do not have an ideal scoring system available. With survival benefit of only about 50% with corticosteroids and pentoxifylline, there is need to develop newer and better treatment options to manage these patients. This article also deals with controversies surrounding the role and use of liver transplantation in patients with alcoholic hepatitis.
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49
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Singal AK, Duchini A. Liver transplantation in acute alcoholic hepatitis: Current status and future development. World J Hepatol 2011; 3:215-8. [PMID: 21954410 PMCID: PMC3180607 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v3.i8.215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 07/15/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is a distinct clinical entity amongst patients with chronic alcohol abuse. Patients with severe AH are at risk of dying in about 20%-25% cases despite specific treatment with corticosteroids and/or pentoxifylline. Clearly, a need for an additional more effective treatment option is unmet currently. Liver transplantation (LT), a definitive treatment option for alcoholic cirrhosis requires 6 mo abstinence. However, this rule cannot be applied to patients with AH as these patients are actively drinking prior to their presentation. Shortage of donors, ethical issues, and fear of recidivism after transplantation with less than 6 mo pre-transplant abstinence are some of the reasons behind this rule of 6 mo of abstinence and hesitancy of transplanting patients with AH. These issues are debated at length in this manuscript. Further, retrospective studies have shown that patients undergoing transplantation for alcoholic cirrhosis and having histological changes of AH have been shown to fare as well when compared to patients without these histological changes. Recently, French workers have reported a case matched prospective study showing encouraging data on the usefulness of LT for patients who are non-responders to corticosteroid and/or pentoxifylline therapy. Future studies are needed to identify patients with severe AH who are going to benefit most with LT. In the light of emerging data on the efficacy of LT in improving survival of patients with severe acute AH who do not respond to corticosteroids, the time is ripe to re-evaluate our policy of LT in patients with AH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwani K Singal
- Ashwani K Singal, Andrea Duchini, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905-0001, United States
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50
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Abstract
Although alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is one of the most common indications for liver transplantation (LT), there are still unresolved controversies about the goals of treatment, the referral, evaluation, and selection of patients with ALD for LT, and their care after LT. It is uncertain whether there is a large unmet need for LT among patients with ALD because of the unmeasured effects of recent drinking, relapse, and recovery with abstinence in this population. A careful assessment of the extrahepatic effects of alcohol-related end-organ damage is needed for ALD patients who are referred for an LT evaluation. Although there clearly is a relationship between the length of sobriety and future abstinence, the present methods for predicting future drinking are inexact. The survival of ALD patients after LT is as good as the survival of non-ALD patients, although patients with coincident ALD and hepatitis C virus have higher mortality and morbidity rates. After LT, ALD patients have an increased risk of developing malignancies and cardiovascular disease. These risks appear to be linked to cigarette smoking. Covert drinking occurs both before and after transplantation, and approximately 20% of patients return to harmful drinking after LT. Harmful drinking after LT (instead of slips) causes liver damage and reduces survival. Better therapies for controlling addictions to alcohol and nicotine are needed for ALD patients both before and after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Lucey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA.
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