Islet Transplantation in Children

Abstract

Purpose of review: Transplantation of the islets of Langerhans or the pancreas aims to restore blood sugar control. We review both forms of transplantation in children.

Recent findings: Allogenic islet transplantation typically in to the liver via the portal vein may be a potential alternative to pancreas transplantation in the future. Autologous islet transplantation after total pancreatectomy is effective for debilitating symptoms of recurrent and chronic pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis in children is most often related to genetic mutations but is otherwise similar to adults with eventual exocrine and endocrine failure. Removal of the pancreas ameliorates pain, and islet transplantation preserves endocrine function to the extent allowed by the damage sustained by the pancreas from chronic inflammation. Despite the complexity of the operative procedure, the outcome of total pancreatectomy and autologous islet transplantation in children has been excellent including quality of life.

Keywords: Allogenic; Autologous; Pancreatectomy.