Alcohol- and substance-dependent subjects: the correlated factors in qualifying for liver transplantation.
OBJECTIVE
To identify the most significant variables in determining if candidates with past or current addictions can be considered for liver transplantation.


METHODS
Data relating to 58 cases from January 2001 to December 2003 were collected and analyzed.


RESULTS
The decisional algorithm identified by discriminant analysis is based on the following variables: the duration of remission, treatment adherence, and the presence of a valid help relationship. Candidates undergoing initial remission (up to 12 months) must demonstrate both adherence and affective support; those with over 5 years of remission, however, are considered sufficiently reliable. A positive judgment is significantly correlated to overall survival and clinical improvement even without transplantation.


CONCLUSIONS
In toxicological evaluation, treatment adherence and the presence of a valid help relationship for patients in remission from addictions can improve the selection criteria for liver transplantation, making it more dependable.
Gallimberti
L
L
Toxicological Clinic of Addictions, General Hospital, University of Padua, Padua, Italy. luigi.gallimberti@unipd.it
Forza
G
G
Angeli
P
P
Vitale
A
A
Cillo
U
U
Gatta
A
A
D'Amico
D
D
D000437:Alcoholism; D000465:Algorithms; D006801:Humans; D016031:Liver Transplantation / Q000401:mortality / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D018579:Patient Selection; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014850:Waiting Lists