Immunosuppression in gastroenterology and hepatology.

In recent years, the clinician has a more diverse approach to immunosuppression. Now, for many conditions, such as solid organ transplantation or treatment of some autoimmune diseases, the consequences of immunosuppression becomes a greater risk than organ failure from immune-mediated disease. Some of the consequences of immunosuppression can be prevented by prophylaxis, immunisation, surveillance and pharmacological intervention. Infections and malignancy are major causes of morbidity and mortality in the immunosuppressed. Screening for evidence of latent infection and immunisation prior to introduction of immunosuppression (where possible and appropriate) will help reduce the risk of infection. Surveillance for those cancers that are increased in association with immunosuppression (especially skin cancers, melanoma, anal canal, Kaposi, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease) will allow early detection and intervention and, where appropriate, alteration of agent.