Outcomes of Pediatric Patients with Chronic Liver Disease in Early Adulthood: A Heterogeneous but Representative Regional Cohort Study

This retrospective regional cohort study of 63 patients (33 males and 30 females) with pediatric-onset chronic liver disease found significant morbidity in early adulthood, with high healthcare utilization and a 41% prevalence of transplantation at transfer. The median time to first transplant was 5.1 years, and 38% of those transplanted experienced significant complications. The study also found that a third of adolescents were non-adherent to self-management and clinic appointments, with older age being a significant factor. The study highlighted the need for more research on reproductive health consequences, particularly regarding pregnancy in patients with established chronic liver disease. The study concluded that the transition from pediatric to adult services is a critical period that requires further research, improvement, and personalized transition programs to reduce morbidity and mortality.