Work

Update on paediatric lung transplantation: an overview of a challenging therapeutic

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Paediatric lung transplantation is a rare but increasingly successful therapeutic option for children with end-stage respiratory failure. Over the past decade, its epidemiology has shifted, with cystic fibrosis becoming an uncommon indication and a growing proportion of candidates presenting with interstitial lung disease or pulmonary arterial hypertension. In parallel, advances in donor allocation, the development of size-reduction surgical techniques and the reconditioning of marginal lungs have expanded the donor pool and reduced waiting-list mortality, including in small children. Peri-operative improvements-including broader use of extracorporeal life support as a bridge to transplantation-have further strengthened early and long-term outcomes. At the same time, progress in infectious disease prophylaxis and antiviral therapy, coupled with a more refined understanding of rejection mechanisms, is reshaping post-transplant care. Together, these developments underscore the importance of early referral to specialised paediatric transplant centres to ensure timely assessment and optimal access to advanced supportive strategies.

Source: Paediatric Respiratory Reviews

DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2026.01.002

Author: Charlotte Roy

Institutions: Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Université Paris Cité, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris

Language: English

Topic: Transplantation: Methods and Outcomes

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,030