Change in Panel Reactive Antibodies in Patients Bridged to Lung Transplantation with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is increasingly used as a bridge to lung transplantation. ECMO-associated hemolysis and bleeding increases ECMO bridged candidates ’ need for blood transfusions. While transfusion can cause human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibody development and, therefore, sensitization against potential donors,1 it is unclear whether ECMO itself induces HLA antibodies. Other mechanical life support devices such as ventricular assist devices (VAD) are associated with HLA antibody development independent of transfusion, possibly due to host immunologic interactions with device biomaterial.
Source: Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Tags: ADULT - Brief Research Report Source Type: research