Long-Term Care of the Liver Transplant Recipient

As survival increases after liver transplantation, common issues that arise involve immunosuppression-related complications and primary health care. Proper emphasis on the prevention and treatment of post–liver transplant complications, such as diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, renal dysfunction, osteoporosis, and obesity, requires careful screening and long-term surveillance to minimize the progression of these complications. Active involvement by internists and subspecialists is necessary and a multidisciplinary approach should be undertaken. Liver transplantation should be viewed as a lifelong commitment by both patient and physician.