Neurological complications of solid organ transplantation

• Published in: Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria 2017-10, Vol.75 (10), p.736-747
• Main Authors: Pedroso, José Luiz, Dutra, Lívia Almeida, Braga-Neto, Pedro, Abrahao, Agessandro, Andrade, João Brainer Clares de, Silva, Gabriel Lopes da, Viana, Laila Almeida, Pestana, José Osmar Medina, Barsottini, Orlando G.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: central nervous system; Humans; Nervous System Diseases - etiology; neurological manifestations; NEUROSCIENCES; organ transplantation; Organ Transplantation - adverse effects; peripheral nervous system; PSYCHIATRY; Views and reviews
• ISSN: 0004-282X; 1678-4227; 1678-4227
• DOI: 10.1590/0004-282X20170132

ABSTRACT Solid organ transplantation is a significant development in the treatment of chronic kidney, liver, heart and lung diseases. This therapeutic approach has increased patient survival and improved quality of life. New surgical techniques and immunosuppressive drugs have been developed to achieve better outcomes. However, the variety of neurological complications following solid organ transplantation is broad and carries prognostic significance. Patients may have involvement of the central or peripheral nervous system due to multiple causes that can vary depending on time of onset after the surgical procedure, the transplanted organ, and the intensity and type of immunosuppressive therapy. Neurological manifestations following solid organ transplantation pose a diagnostic challenge to medical specialists despite extensive investigation. This review aimed to provide a practical approach to help neurologists and clinicians assess and manage solid organ transplant patients presenting with acute or chronic neurological manifestations.