Catastrophic graft-versus-host disease after lung transplantation proven by PCR-based chimerism analysis

Transpl Int. 2008 Nov;21(11):1098-101. doi: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2008.00754.x. Epub 2008 Sep 1.

Abstract

Acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a rare complication after solid organ transplantation. We describe a 52-year-old female developing neutropenia and fever 48 days after single lung transplantation for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Bone marrow (BM) biopsy suggested drug-induced marrow failure, so immunosuppression was reduced. Five days later a maculopapular skin rash was observed, progressing to a generalized erythema with desquamation. Skin biopsy was suspectable for GvHD, so immunosuppression was re-initiated. PCR-based chimerism analysis of BM revealed 78% donor cells. Intensified immunosuppression resulted in temporary improvement, but BM aplasia recurred and the patient experienced severe GvHD of gut and liver. Despite extensive immunosuppression the patient died from multi-organ failure 99 days after transplantation. This report describes the occurrence of neutropenia as an early presenting sign of acute GvHD after lung transplantation. We therefore recommend incorporating GvHD in the differential diagnosis of neutropenia after solid organ transplantation, calling for early chimerism analyses.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Graft vs Host Disease / diagnosis*
  • Graft vs Host Disease / etiology
  • Humans
  • In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
  • Lung Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Organ Failure / etiology
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / therapy*
  • Transplantation Chimera