Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt is effective to treat portal hypertension due to sinusoidal obstructive syndrome

Abstract

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) is an established procedure for the complications of portal hypertension, such as variceal bleeding, refractory ascites and hepatic hydrothorax. We report an original case of a renal transplant patient successfully treated with TIPS for portal hypertension due to sinusoidal obstructive syndrome (SOS) induced by azathioprine (AZA). By reporting this case, we wish to draw the attention of healthcare professionals managing organ transplant patients, especially nephrologists, to the possible occurrence of liver toxicity due to AZA, and to emphasize the role of TIPS as an effective therapeutic option for portal hypertension-related complications.

Keywords: Azathioprine; Portal hypertension; Sinusoidal obstructive syndrome; Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt.