Variability in azithromycin practices among lung transplant providers in the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation Community

Abstract

Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) is the most important long-term complication after lung transplant (LTx), and clinical experience suggests significant variability in its management. We sought to capture azithromycin practices among LTx providers internationally. A survey was distributed via the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation and completed by 103 respondents (15 countries). Azithromycin indications, timing, and dosing varied significantly, and 37 (36%) reported inconsistency even within their center. Thirty (29%) reported initiating azithromycin prophylactically (during initial transplant hospitalization). Of 73 others, only 10 (14%) reported waiting until CLAD diagnosis (with persistent ≥20% pulmonary function decline). Most initiated azithromycin after a CLAD risk-factor and/or event, including 59 (81%) for a persistent ≥10% decrement in FEV₁, 32 (44%) for lymphocytic bronchiolitis, and 27 (37%) for bronchoalveolar lavage neutrophilia. Azithromycin prescribing patterns appear to vary significantly, and further study is needed to elucidate the optimal timing and indications for its initiation after LTx.

Keywords: azithromycin; bronchiolitis obliterans; chronic lung allograft dysfunction; chronic rejection; lung transplantation.