Acute worsening of native lung fibrosis after single lung transplantation for pulmonary fibrosis: two case reports

Tiphaine Goletto,Lila Bouadma,Cendrine Godet,Brice Lortat-Jacob,Yves Castier,Vincent Bunel,Samer Najem,Chahine Medraoui,Sixtine Decaux,Hervé Mal,Gaëlle Weisenburger,Marie Pierre Debray,Pierre Mordant,Raphael Borie,Jonathan Messika

doi:10.1186/s13256-021-03191-9

Abstract

BackgroundIn patients receiving single lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, worsening of fibrosis of the native lung is usually progressive over time, with no significant effects on gas exchange.Case presentationHere, we describe the cases of two Caucasian male recipients of single lung transplants for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, 65 and 62 years of age, who exhibited acute worsening of lung fibrosis after an episode of serious viral infection (cytomegalovirus primo-infection in one case and COVID-19 in the other). In both cases, along with opacification of the native lung over several days, the patients presented acute respiratory failure that required the use of high-flow nasal oxygen therapy. Eventually, hypoxemic respiratory failure resolved, but with rapid progression of fibrosis of the native lung.ConclusionWe conclude that acute worsening of fibrosis on the native lung secondary to a severe viral infection should be added to the list of potential complications developing on the native lung after single lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Highlights

ConclusionWe conclude that acute worsening of fibrosis on the native lung secondary to a severe viral infection should be added to the list of potential complications developing on the native lung after single lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
In patients receiving single lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, worsening of fibrosis of the native lung is usually progressive over time, with no significant effects on gas exchange.Case presentation: Here, we describe the cases of two Caucasian male recipients of single lung transplants for idi‐ opathic pulmonary fibrosis, 65 and 62 years of age, who exhibited acute worsening of lung fibrosis after an episode of serious viral infection
We conclude that acute worsening of fibrosis on the native lung secondary to a severe viral infection should be added to the list of potential complications developing on the native lung after single lung transplantation for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Summary

Conclusion

Acute worsening of fibrosis on the native lung secondary to a severe viral infection should be added to the list of potential complications developing on the native lung after SLT for pulmonary fibrosis.

Background

Findings

Discussion