Risk factors for post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder after pediatric liver transplantation in China

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) after liver transplantation in children. Methods: : We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and laboratory data of patients treated and followed up at Shanghai Children's Medical Center between January 2012 and January 2019. Twenty-four patients with PTLD were enrolled in this study using a 1:2 pairing design. Each case was matched with two controls that had undergone liver transplantation within the same year but did not develop PTLD during the follow-up period. A total of 72 patients were included in this study. Results: : Univariate analysis demonstrated statistically significant differences in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, tacrolimus blood concentration, Platelet (PTL), Aspartate aminotransferase(AST),Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and Cholesterol(CHOL).Multivariate logistics regression analysis revealed that EBV infection was an independent risk factor for PTLD. Conclusions: : EBV infection is an independent risk factor for PTLD. When uncontrolled proliferation of EBV occurs after organ transplantation, the dosage of immunosuppressive agents should be appropriately reduced.