Solid-organ transplantation in childhood: transitioning to adult health care

Pediatrics. 2011 Apr;127(4):742-53. doi: 10.1542/peds.2010-1232. Epub 2011 Mar 7.

Abstract

Pediatric solid-organ transplantation is an increasingly successful treatment for solid-organ failure. With dramatic improvements in patient survival rates over the last several decades, there has been a corresponding emergence of complications attributable to pretransplant factors, transplantation itself, and the management of transplantation with effective immunosuppression. The predominant solid-organ transplantation sequelae are medical and psychosocial. These sequelae have a substantial effect on transition to adult care; as such, hurdles to successful transition of care arise from the patients, their families, and pediatric and adult health care providers. Crucial to successful transitioning is the ongoing development of a sense of autonomy and responsibility for one's own care. In this article we address the barriers to transitioning that occur with long-term survival in pediatric solid-organ transplantation. Although a particular transitioning model is not promoted, practical tools and strategies that contribute to successful transitioning of pediatric patients who have received a transplant are suggested.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Cognition Disorders / diagnosis
  • Cognition Disorders / psychology
  • Cognition Disorders / therapy
  • Cooperative Behavior
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Graft Rejection / diagnosis
  • Graft Rejection / psychology
  • Graft Rejection / therapy
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Independent Living / psychology
  • Insurance Coverage
  • Interdisciplinary Communication
  • Medication Adherence / psychology
  • Organ Transplantation* / psychology
  • Patient Care Team*
  • Personal Autonomy
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnosis
  • Postoperative Complications / psychology
  • Postoperative Complications / therapy*
  • Quality of Life / psychology
  • Referral and Consultation*
  • Social Adjustment
  • Survivors*
  • Transfer Agreement*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents