Liver Transplantation in a Patient with Acute Liver Failure Due to Sickle Cell Intrahepatic Cholestasis

Background: Sickle cell intrahepatic cholestasis is a potentially catastrophic complication of sickle cell anemia Once acute liver failure develops, transplantation is the only option. We describe a patient with sickle cell intrahepatic cholestasis who underwent liver transplantation.

Methods: Data were obtained from the chart. Serial hemoglobin S levels were monitored, and measures were taken to maintain hemoglobin S <20% to prevent sickle cell crisis.

Results: Although the allograft functioned well initially, the patient developed veno-occlusive disease and required repeat transplantation at 5 months after transplant. Histologic examination of the explant revealed occlusion of the terminal hepatic venules due to fibrosis and packed red cells. Repeat transplant was complicated by thrombosis of the intrahepatic portion of the hepatic artery, and sepsis. The patient died of sepsis after a third transplant.

Conclusion: Liver transplantation for sickle cell disease involving the liver may carry a high risk of graft loss due to vascular problems. Repeat transplantation may not be feasible if disease recurs.