From the Research
Recipient-specific risk factors for acute cellular rejection in liver transplant include Black race, younger recipient age, and certain immunological factors, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia. These factors are associated with a higher risk of acute cellular rejection, as shown in a study published in 2023 1. The study found that Black race, continued need for prednisone, and CMV viremia were independent risk factors for acute cellular rejection. Additionally, younger recipient age has been identified as a risk factor in other studies, such as one published in 2012 2, which found that recipient age was significantly associated with acute cellular rejection. Other studies, such as one published in 2018 3, have identified other risk factors, including biliary complications, donor-negative, recipient-positive CMV mismatch, and sex mismatch. However, the most recent and highest quality study, published in 2023 1, provides the most up-to-date information on recipient-specific risk factors for acute cellular rejection in liver transplant. Key points to consider include:
- Black race is a significant risk factor for acute cellular rejection
- Younger recipient age is associated with a higher risk of acute cellular rejection
- CMV viremia is an independent risk factor for acute cellular rejection
- Tacrolimus use is associated with less acute cellular rejection
- Steroid sparing regimens are not associated with an increased incidence of acute cellular rejection.