Diagnosis and treatment of severe interstitial pneumonia after liver transplantation

Objective To summarize the experience in the treatment of severe interstitial pneumonia after liver transplantation. Methods A retrospective analysis was made on the clinical data of 8 cases of severe interstitial pneumonia after liver transplantation who were diagnosed and treated from May 2008 to October 2013. Their processes of treatment and reasons for treatment success were analyzed. Results Eight patients appeared with interstitial pneumonia within 1- 3 months after liver transplantation; their first symptoms were fever, followed by progressive hypoxemia; chest X- ray showed significant interstitial pneumonia. After stopping immunosuppressants, using immunostimulants, strengthening anti- infective therapy, respiratory support, controlling fluid intake, and nutritional support, the clinical symptoms of 8 patients were relieved, the chest radiograph returned to normal, and all patients were cured and discharged. Conclusion Severe interstitial pneumonia is a complication of liver transplantation, with severe illness status and rapid progression. If rescue is not timely, it has high mortality. Early diagnosis and stopping immunosuppressants, using immunostimulants, controlling liquid intake, and nutritional support are important factors to increase the cure rate.