Outcomes of Liver transplantation in children with Langerhans Cell
Histiocytosis: Experience from a quaternary care centre and an
algorithmic approach
Abstract
Objective : Spectrum of hepatic presentation in Langerhans cell
histiocytosis (LCH) varies from asymptomatic hepatomegaly to secondary
sclerosing cholangitis leading to cirrhosis with or without
decompensation. Conventional chemotherapy may be counterproductive in a
patient with LCH and hepatic decompensation. We analysed the outcomes of
our patients with hepatic presentation of LCH, including their post
liver transplant (LT) follow up. Methods: A retrospective analysis was
performed on patients with hepatic presentation of LCH referred to our
unit. Their clinical profile, chemotherapy protocol, details of LT and
survival were analysed. A management algorithm based on the outcomes was
proposed. Results: Five of 8 patients were male. Median age of diagnosis
was 25(9-48) months. 8(100%) patients had portal hypertension with
4(50%) having decompensated cirrhosis. 6 (75%) patients underwent LT
of which 2 had acute decompensation and 4 had sclerosing cholangitis
with portal hypertension. Of the two remaining patients, 1 did not
tolerate chemotherapy and succumbed, whereas 1 patient after first cycle
of chemotherapy was lost to follow up. As their liver disease was
worsening during chemotherapy (after 8 & 20 weeks of chemotherapy), two
patients underwent urgent LT followed by continuation of chemotherapy.
After median follow-up of 30.5 (10.5-50) months, all patients were alive
with stable graft function and no disease recurrence. Conclusion: As
shown in our series, an algorithmic approach to patient and treatment
selection for LCH patients with liver involvement combined with newer
chemotherapeutic agents and an optimized immunosuppression can result in
excellent outcomes for a hitherto unfamiliar disease.