Hepatopulmonary Syndrome

Overview

Hepatopulmonary (hep-uh-toe-POOL-moe-nar-ee) syndrome is an uncommon condition that occurs in people with an existing liver disease that has advanced to the point it affects their lungs. People with hepatopulmonary syndrome have low blood oxygen levels (hypoxemia) caused by widespread dilation (expansion) of the lung blood vessels, both in size and number. The dilated vessels make it hard for the lungs to deliver an adequate supply of oxygen to the body. Liver transplant is the only cure for the syndrome.

Why Choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Mayo Clinic is one of the nation's leading treatment and research centers for liver diseases, and Mayo Clinic doctors are experienced in treating hepatopulmonary syndrome.
• Good results. People with hepatopulmonary syndrome who receive a liver transplant at Mayo can expect long-term outcomes similar to other people who receive liver transplants — a greater than 70 percent survival rate after five years.
• Teamwork. Liver, lung and transplant specialists work closely together to diagnose and treat hepatopulmonary syndrome.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for respiratory disorders by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals for respiratory disorders.