Catastrophic Outcome of Suspected Seventh-Day Syndrome After Liver Transplantation: Case Report and Literature Review.

BACKGROUND

Seventh-Day Syndrome (7DS) is one of the early serious complications after liver transplantation (LT) with rapid deterioration and high mortality. The pathogenesis of such rare cases has not been clarified and effective intervention measures are lacking. This study describes the entire diagnosis and treatment process of a highly suspected 7DS patient, who ultimately died due to liver failure. In the rapidly developing information age of technology, we recommend exploring potential independent risk factors and establishing effective warning models based on clinical information to assist in clinical decision-making.

METHODS

A 52-year-old patient with a recurrence of liver malignancy underwent LT after matching the liver source. The postoperative pathological results confirmed HCC and cirrhosis. Previous treatment history, test and examination results, surgical procedure, and postoperative treatments were evaluated comprehensively.

RESULTS

The patient initially recovered smoothly after surgery, but developed a fever on postoperative day 6. Subsequently, liver enzyme levels sharply increased, and anti-immune rejection therapy was ineffective. Ultrasound examination showed a significant decrease in portal vein velocity or even no blood flow signal. These were consistent with previously reported clinical manifestations and also conformed to the currently proposed mechanisms of immune damage and ischemic injury theory. Treatment of the 7DS included steroid pulse therapy, thymoglobulin, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasma exchange therapy. Unfortunately, with the rapid and irreversible damage to the graft function leading to liver failure, the patient ultimately died due to no chance of retransplantation.

CONCLUSION

7DS is a rare and highly lethal early serious complication after LT. Due to the unclear pathogenesis, rapid disease progression, and differences in cases, it presents significant challenges for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Utilizing big data analysis technology to identify potential risk factors and develop a warning system for the diagnosis and treatment of 7DS may enhance clinical decision-making in the future.