Nutrition for the liver transplant patient

Abstract

Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) frequently have diverse abnormalities of carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism that cause progressive deterioration of their clinical condition and lead to malnutrition. Malnutrition is almost universally present in patients with ESLD undergoing liver transplantation and has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It is essential to identify and correct nutritional deficiencies in this population and provide an adequate nutritional support during all phases of liver transplantation. In conclusion, this article reviews the etiologic factors, prevalence, assessment and management guidelines of nutritional disorders seen in patients with ESLD undergoing liver transplantation.