What is the Role of Histology in Lung Transplant Evaluation?
Histology plays a crucial role in evaluating lung transplants. Biopsies are used to assess for acute rejection, characterized by perivascular and interstitial lymphocytic infiltrates. Chronic rejection manifests as bronchiolitis obliterans, which shows fibrosis and obliteration of small airways. Histological examination helps guide immunosuppressive therapy and monitor for complications such as infection or post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders.