Neuropsychiatric complications of liver transplantation

Liver transplantation (LT) is the best treatment for end-stage liver diseas es but it entails a high incidence of neuropsychiatric complications. These may be related to the operation or occur postoperatively, usually within t he first month. The occurrence of neurological problems after LT increases the risk of mortality. The etiology of such complications is various, often multifactorial, immunosuppression being one of the most important causes. Immunosuppressive drugs may cause a wide spectrum of neuropsychiatric compl ications-mainly affecting the CNS-ranging from mild to severe disorders. A survey of the most frequent disorders is presented. In the management of li ver-trans planted patients, the awareness of potential neurological and psy chiatric problems is crucial for patients' survival. since it assists clini cians in prevention., prompt diagnosis, and treatment.