A survey of food safety information and foodborne infections post solid organ transplant

Abstract

Summary Background & aims Over 4000 solid organ transplants are carried out annually in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. These patients are commenced on essential immunosuppression therapy, which increases the likelihood of acquiring an infection from foods. Patients are given information to reduce this risk, however not all centres give this advice and the advice given is not standardised. This paper reports on the findings from a survey of dietitians that set out to describe current practice in relation to food safety information given post solid organ transplant. Methods An internet-based questionnaire was sent to transplant dietitians in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland enquiring about current practice and incidence of foodborne infections after a solid organ transplant. Results Thirty-eight questionnaires were returned containing information about heart, lung, kidney, liver, pancreas and small bowel transplant recipients. Respondents from all but one transplant centre reported they gave food safety advice. The recommended duration and content of the advice varied. The largest variable was regarding specific food avoidance. Foodborne infections were reported in patients following kidney, kidney-pancreas, liver and lung transplants. Conclusions There is variation in the food safety information given to patients after a solid organ transplant. Post transplant foodborne infection remains a serious complication of a solid organ transplant and its concurrent immunosuppression. Further development of knowledge in this area, would benefit patients who may already have compromised nutritional intake and health. Nationally standardised post transplant food safety information is recommended.