Post transplantation issues

Although delirium isn't common after transplantation, it is not entirely rare. The etiology of delirium after transplantation can result from organ failure, general anesthesia, complications during surgery, medications, and infection.

Depression and anxiety can be common both before and after transplantation. Psychotherapy (individual or group) or mentor/mentee programs can be very helpful in this regard. Pharmacological interventions can also be implemented, but care must be taken regarding interactions with other medications, so SSRIs such as citalopram, with few P450 interactions can be suitable.

New onset psychiatric issues after transplantation should always be assumed to be of medical origin and thus a full review of medications and anything else that has entered the patient's body is necessary. Some common psychiatric symptoms arising from medical conditions after transplantation are described in this table.

Psychotherapy and supportive group therapy can be very beneficial post transplant in terms of helping patients deal with the multiple stressors they encounter.