Long-term follow up of paediatric liver transplant recipients: outcomes following transfer to adult healthcare in New Zealand

Intern Med J. 2015 May;45(5):580-2. doi: 10.1111/imj.12721.

Abstract

Poor outcomes are reported in young people with chronic health conditions. We performed a retrospective notes review of New Zealand paediatric liver transplant recipients transferred to adult services. Two patients were lost to follow up. Out of 20, 12 were non-adherent, and out of 12, 7 developed rejection. Other risk behaviours were common in the non-adherent group. We conclude that dedicated services for these young people may be needed to optimise outcomes.

Keywords: liver transplantation; paediatrics; patient non-adherence; transition to adult care.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Assessment of Medication Adherence*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Medication Adherence / psychology
  • New Zealand / epidemiology
  • Patient Compliance
  • Pediatrics
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Self Care / psychology*
  • Transition to Adult Care / organization & administration*
  • Transplant Recipients / psychology
  • Transplant Recipients / statistics & numerical data*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents