Treatment adherence and behavior of pediatric liver transplant recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected medical care worldwide. Thus, we aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatric LT recipients. Methods: A cross-sectional study based on a structured internet or telephone survey was conducted among pediatric LT recipients. Survey results were compared with results of a survey conducted among pediatric patients with IBD. Results: Seventy-six pediatric LT patients participated in the study. Of them, 58 (76.3%) reported fear of severe COVID-19 infection due to LT or LT-associated medications. Half of the patients reported needing emotional support. Most patients (51, 67.1%) reported strictly following official guidance, while more stringent protective measures were taken by 64 (84.2%) patients. None of the patients discontinued their medications due to COVID-19. Compared to pediatric patients with IBD, a higher proportion of pediatric LT recipients reported fears of contracting severe COVID-19 infection due to their illness or medications (45, 59.2% vs. 110, 45.1%). Conclusion: Among pediatric LT recipients a higher proportion reported fear of severe COVID-19 infection, implemented additional protective measures and expressed a need for emotional support, compared to patients with IBD. Medical teams should provide adequate information and offer a support system for this vulnerable population.