Donor–derived cell-free DNA associated with increased risk of chronic lung allograft dysfunction and mortality: Are absolute levels better than percentage?

Key Points

• Chronic lung allograft dysfunction is associated with elevated donor-derived cell-free DNA levels.
• The study identifies that higher absolute cell-free DNA levels may predict increased mortality more effectively than percentages.
• Observational analysis across multiple transplant centers highlights the importance of biomarker evaluation in lung transplant care.
• These findings suggest a potential shift towards using absolute levels of cell-free DNA for better clinical decision-making.