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![](images/global/clr_pxl.gif) | When is a liver transplant considered?![](images/global/clr_pxl.gif) | A liver transplant is considered when a patient is at high risk of dying from liver disease. Just because a provider suggests that a patient be referred for a liver transplant doesn't mean that the patient will die right away without one. It typically takes a long time to go through the entire transplant process, so a provider may recommend a transplant far in advance to allow time for all the necessary steps. Being told you should be considered for a liver transplant does not mean that you are in danger of dying right away. A medical provider may think someone needs a liver transplant if they have symptoms of severe liver disease, which may include: - Yellowing of skin or whites of eyes (called jaundice)
- Fluid in the legs (called edema) or in the belly (called ascites)
- Thinning of muscles, especially in the face, neck, and arms
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Vomiting blood or passing blood in stool
- Impaired concentration or increased confusion (called encephalopathy)
- Changes in liver tests that suggest the liver is not healthy
Having these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you need a liver transplant. Some of these symptoms may be present in people who DO NOT have severe liver
disease. If you are having any of these symptoms, contact your medical provider. |
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Reviewed/Updated Date: November 2, 2007 |
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