FK506-induced fulminant leukoencephalopathy after single-lung transplantation

Ann Thorac Surg. 1997 Nov;64(5):1461-4. doi: 10.1016/S0003-4975(97)00939-9.

Abstract

FK506 is being used increasingly to prevent rejection after organ transplantation. Its use is associated with a wide spectrum of neurotoxicity, which has been described after most solid organ transplantations, but reports after lung transplantation are extremely rare. This is a report of the pathologic correlation of the clinical and radiologic features of delayed FK506-induced fulminant leukoencephalopathy after single-lung transplantation. The patient presented with neurologic symptoms that progressed to seizure activity. Neuroimaging showed diffuse changes in the brain, and results of a brain biopsy were consistent with leukoencephalopathy with microglial and astrocytic activation. The patient had a remarkable improvement in clinical status after discontinuation of FK506 administration, with resolution of the changes seen on neuroimaging.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Brain / pathology
  • Brain Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Brain Diseases / diagnosis
  • Brain Diseases / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Lung Transplantation*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Middle Aged
  • Tacrolimus / adverse effects*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Tacrolimus