Successful split liver-kidney transplant for factor H associated hemolytic uremic syndrome

Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2009 Jan;4(1):201-6. doi: 10.2215/CJN.02170508. Epub 2008 Nov 12.

Abstract

Background and objectives: A male infant with a family history of thrombotic microangiopathy developed atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS).

Design, setting, participants, & measurements: Case report.

Results: Genetic analysis demonstrated a heterozygous mutation (S1191L) of CFH, the gene coding complement factor H (CFH). The child suffered many episodes of HUS, each treated with plasma exchange. In time, despite initiation of a prophylactic regimen of plasma exchange, his renal function declined significantly. At the age of 4 yr he received a (split liver) combined liver-kidney transplant (LKT) with preoperative plasma exchange and enoxaparin anticoagulation. Initial function of both grafts was excellent and is maintained for nearly 2 yr.

Conclusions: This report adds to the small but growing number of individuals in whom LKT has provided a favorable outcome for aHUS associated with CFH mutation, expands the technique of using a split liver graft, and describes the unique histologic features of subclinical liver disease in HUS.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Child, Preschool
  • Complement Factor H / genetics*
  • Enoxaparin / therapeutic use
  • Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome / complications
  • Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome / genetics
  • Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome / immunology
  • Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome / surgery*
  • Heterozygote
  • Humans
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / genetics
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / immunology
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / prevention & control*
  • Kidney Transplantation*
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Mutation*
  • Plasma Exchange
  • Recurrence
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Enoxaparin
  • Complement Factor H