A adolescência de pacientes submetidos a transplante hepático

The adolescence of liver transplant patients

Abstract

Objective: With the number of successful liver transplants rising steadily, this review provides information for pediatricians
on the care of adolescents receiving liver transplants, while fostering compliance with immunosuppressive treatment in order
to avoid the risk of acute and chronic rejection giving rise to the need for a second transplant, in addition to other important
aspects of adolescence. Data Sources: Information was collected from scientifi c articles published in the SciELO, MEDLINE and
PubMed databases from 2004 to 2010, as well as technical books and consensus publications by international entities. The
descriptors used were: adolescence, solid organ transplantation, adherence, compliance. Findings Summary: As a result of
rising numbers of transplants and longer survival times, improvement, many young transplantees are reaching the turbulent  years of adolescence. Providers and children who have undergone solid organ transplants experience the same diffi culties and
frustrations as others with serious illnesses. There are few transplant units with standardized transition programs that ensure
adequate follow-up for adolescent patients after transfers to adult clinics. Some authors confi rm that proper healthcare during
the transition period provides an educational review for adolescent patients, as well a convenient opportunity to optimize well
being in adulthood. Unfortunately, adult clinics are generally overloaded with patients and adolescent development issues
are not rated as high priority. Despite the key role that they play in the transfer of adolescents to adult healthcare facilities,
pediatricians often act unconsciously as complicating factors through failing to demonstrate full confi dence in their colleagues.
Conclusion: A transition outpatient clinic could well offer opportunities to address issues essential to the overall health of
adolescent liver transplant patients, ensuring full development in areas such as independence, identity, self-esteem, quality of
life, sexuality, body changes, life projects and educational and professional progress.