ISHLT Consensus Statement on Short Telomere Syndrome and Lung Transplantation

Motivated by growing evidence that the presence of critically shortened telomeres influences interstitial lung disease (ILD) trajectories and is associated with extrapulmonary conditions relevant to lung transplant candidacy and post-transplant complications, this Consensus Statement aims to address gaps in the evaluation and management of patients with short telomere syndrome (STS). These considerations reflect the work of an international Writing Committee with expertise in STS and are grounded in current literature and expert consensus. The need for this document arises from the recognition that STS is an underdiagnosed contributor to ILD, and that its presence introduces complexities that require dedicated, multidisciplinary attention in the transplant setting.