Cognitive Development and Learning in the Pediatric Organ Transplant Recipient

Abstract

Although organ transplantation is considered a viable treatment approach for end-stage organ disease, few empirical investigations have assessed the effects of transplantation on the cognitive development and learning of pediatric organ transplant recipients. This article reviews studies evaluating neurocognitive changes following organ transplantation in pediatric end-stage renal and liver disease. Despite numerous methodological problems inherent in the investigations examined, the findings of some studies are suggestive of potential neurocognitive benefits associated with organ transplantation. Recommendations are made regarding methodological improvements for future investigations assessing neurocognitive outcomes of organ transplantation.