Pediatric lung transplantation: supply and demand

Abstract

Purpose of review: Lung transplantation has become an accepted therapy in infants, children, and adolescents suffering from end-stage lung diseases, an impaired quality of life and reduced life expectancy. The aim of this review is to highlight specific aspects of pediatric lung transplantation and to give an update on recent findings.

Recent findings: Currently, over 100 lung transplant procedures are performed in children annually worldwide. Long-term success is limited by availability of donor organs and waitlist mortality pretransplant, and an increased infection risk because of immunosuppression, and most importantly late complications, such as chronic lung allograft dysfunction, medication nonadherence, and transition intricacies.

Summary: Specific aspects of pediatric lung transplantation will be reviewed and an update on most recent developments in the management of pediatric lung transplant recipients given.