Determination Of Variables Influencing The Quality Of Life In Children With Liver Transplantation

INTRODUCTION: This clinical study examined various dimensions of quality of life in children who underwent liver transplantation.
METHODS: The patient group (n=50) of the study consisted of children and their families where the child had received a liver transplant (possibly from their mother) in Ege University Organ Transplant Research Center. The control group (n=50) consisted of children and their families who did not undergo any organ transplants, did not have any health issues, and were of similar age, gender and socio-economic status with the members of the study group. The children in the study were examined with the quality of life questionnaire named KINDer Lebensqualitätsfragebogen (Children’s Quality of Life Questionnaire, KINDL).
RESULTS: The overall quality of life and the quality of life in the physical, emotional, self-esteem, family, friend, and school sub-categories as reported by the children themselves in the study group, in the 8-12- and 13-16 year age groups were determined to be higher (p<0.05) when compared to the children in the control group. Similarly, the quality of life for the children in the study group, as reported by their families were determined to be higher (p<0.05) when compared to the control group.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Liver transplantation haves effects on the quality of life of both the children and their families.