When is a liver transplant considered?

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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