Autoimmune Hepatitis in an Immunosuppression-Free Patient Who Underwent Living Donor Liver Transplantation From an Identical Twin: A Case Report

Transplant Proc. 2022 Dec;54(10):2791-2793. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2022.09.022. Epub 2022 Nov 14.

Abstract

Although there have been a few liver transplantations (LTs) between identical twins, to our knowledge hepatic damage after LT in an immunosuppressant-free patient has not been reported. Autoimmune liver disease recurrence after LT is also a postoperative problem. In this follow-up to our previous report, we present the case of a 57-year-old man with acute liver failure who underwent living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) from an identical twin. Six months after LDLT, the patient was free from immunosuppressive medication and showed good liver function. However, 1 year after LDLT, he developed liver damage and was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis by liver biopsy. His liver function was improved with steroid pulse therapy and the resumption of immunosuppressive medications. Even after LDLT from an identical twin, careful management is required for patients to remain free of immunosuppressive medications, considering the background liver disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune* / diagnosis
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Liver Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Living Donors
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Twins, Monozygotic