Abstract |
IgA deficiency is associated with high mortality (42% at 120 days) following liver transplantation (OLTx). Most of the mortality has been associated with enteric infections. Mother's milk, or human breast milk (HBM), is a rich source of IgA that is considered to have beneficial effects in terms of protection from microbial translocation and enteric infections. Two IgA-deficient OLTx recipients were given HBM orally for 10 days perioperatively. HBM was given in order to replenish intestinal IgA. Both patients had an excellent infection-free post-operative course. IgA levels in the serum rose from 5 to 10 mg/dl in one patient and from 7 to 30 mg/dl in the other. No complications from HBM administration were observed. We conclude that HBM can be used in IgA-deficient liver transplant recipients to reduce the risk of infectious complications in the post-operative period.
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Authors | H J Merhav, H I Wright, L A Mieles, D H Van Thiel |
Journal | Transplant international : official journal of the European Society for Organ Transplantation
(Transpl Int)
Vol. 8
Issue 4
Pg. 327-9
( 1995)
ISSN: 0934-0874 [Print] Switzerland |
PMID | 7546158
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Administration, Oral
- Humans
- IgA Deficiency
(etiology, therapy)
- Immunoglobulin A
(blood)
- Liver Transplantation
(adverse effects)
- Milk, Human
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