Liver transplantation in a patient after COVID-19-Rapid loss of antibodies and prolonged viral RNA shedding

To date, little is known about the duration and effectiveness of immunity as well as possible adverse late effects after an infection with SARS-CoV-2. Thus it is unclear, when and if liver transplantation can be safely offered to patients who suffered from COVID-19. Here, we report on a successful liver transplantation shortly after convalescence from COVID-19 with subsequent partial seroreversion as well as recurrence and prolonged shedding of viral RNA.

Automated summary

Currently, there is limited understanding of the duration and effectiveness of immunity following SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as potential adverse late effects. This uncertainty raises questions about the safety of offering liver transplantation to patients who have recovered from COVID-19. In this case report, successful liver transplantation was performed shortly after recovery, but partial seroreversion and prolonged shedding of viral RNA were observed.