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Shahmirzadi MR, Gunaratnam L, Jevnikar AM, Luke P, House AA, Silverman MS, Hosseini-Moghaddam SM. The effect of late-onset CMV infection on the outcome of renal allograft considering initial graft function. Transpl Infect Dis 2023; 25:e14081. [PMID: 37247212 DOI: 10.1111/tid.14081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delayed graft function (DGF) increases the renal allograft failure risk. Late-onset Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection's effect on the association between DGF and allograft failure has not been determined. METHODS In this retrospective cohort, we included all renal allograft recipients at London Health Sciences Centre from January 1, 2014 to December 30, 2017, and continued clinical follow-up until February 28, 2020. We determined whether late-onset CMV infection affects the association between DGF and allograft failure in stratified and Cox proportional hazard analyses. RESULTS Of 384 patients (median age [interquartile range]: 55 [43.3-63]; 38.7% female), 57 recipients (14.8%) were diagnosed with DGF. Patients with DGF were at a greater risk of CMV infection than patients without DGF (22.8% vs. 11.3%, p = .017). Late-onset CMV infection (odds ratio [OR]: 4.7, 95% CI: 2.07-10.68) and rejection (OR: 9.59, 95% CI: 4.15-22.16) significantly increased the risk of allograft failure in recipients with DGF. Patients with DGF had a significantly greater risk of graft failure than those without DGF (17.5% vs. 6.1%, p = .007). In the adjusted Cox hazard model, CMV infection significantly increased the risk of allograft failure (aHR: 3.19, 95% CI: 1.49-6.84). CONCLUSION Late-onset CMV infection considerably increased the risk of graft failure in patients with DGF. A hybrid preventive model including prophylaxis followed by CMV-specific cell-mediated immunity monitoring may decrease the risk of allograft failure in recipients with DGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza R Shahmirzadi
- Multiorgan Transplant Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lakshman Gunaratnam
- Multiorgan Transplant Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anthony M Jevnikar
- Multiorgan Transplant Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patrick Luke
- Multiorgan Transplant Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew A House
- Multiorgan Transplant Program, London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael S Silverman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Seyed M Hosseini-Moghaddam
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Multiorgan Transplant Program, Ajmera Transplant Centre, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Zwart TC, Bezstarosti S, Achini FR, Reinders MEJ, Schilham MW, Heidt S, Guchelaar HJ, de Fijter JW, Moes DJAR. Population pharmacokinetics of subcutaneous alemtuzumab in kidney transplantation. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2023; 89:1471-1485. [PMID: 36408784 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Alemtuzumab is a monoclonal antibody used as induction immunosuppressive therapy in kidney transplantation. It targets CD52 on lymphocytes, inducing profound immune cell depletion upon administration. Owing to its off-label status in kidney transplantation, its pharmacokinetic characteristics are largely unknown in this setting, and its current fixed dosing algorithm originates from other populations. We developed a population pharmacokinetic model for alemtuzumab in kidney transplant recipients and investigated the potential of personalized alemtuzumab therapy. METHODS In total, 362 pharmacokinetic observations drawn 0-165 days after transplantation were available from 61 adult kidney transplant recipients who received two consecutive doses of 15 mg alemtuzumab subcutaneously. A population pharmacokinetic model was developed using nonlinear mixed-effects modelling and applied to simulate various dosing regimens. RESULTS The alemtuzumab concentration-time data were best described by a two-compartmental model with first-order absorption and parallel first-order and time-varying concentration-dependent elimination, with between-subject variability on the first-order elimination (39.6%) and central distribution volume (39.6%). Alemtuzumab pharmacokinetics varied with body size, rendering lighter individuals exposed to lympholytic alemtuzumab concentrations (>0.1 mg/L) for prolonged durations as compared to their heavier peers. This between-subject variability could be reduced through lean bodyweight-adjusted dosing, showing a twofold to threefold reduction in the slope of the median alemtuzumab exposure over the bodyweight range. CONCLUSION Alemtuzumab displays substantial pharmacokinetic variability in kidney transplant recipients, which may warrant a personalized treatment strategy. Lean bodyweight-adjusted dosing poses an option for individualized dosing, but further evaluation of its potential clinical benefit is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom C Zwart
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne Bezstarosti
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Federica R Achini
- Department of Paediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marlies E J Reinders
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and LUMC Transplant Center, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marco W Schilham
- Department of Paediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Heidt
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Henk-Jan Guchelaar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Johan W de Fijter
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and LUMC Transplant Center, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk Jan A R Moes
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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3
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Ko Y, Wee YM, Shin S, Kim MJ, Choi MY, Kim DH, Lim SJ, Jung JH, Kwon H, Kim YH, Han DJ. A prospective, randomized, non-blinded, non-inferiority pilot study to assess the effect of low-dose anti-thymocyte globulin with low-dose tacrolimus and early steroid withdrawal on clinical outcomes in non-sensitized living-donor kidney recipients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280924. [PMID: 36857393 PMCID: PMC9976999 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal dose of anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) as an induction regimen in Asian living-donor kidney recipients is unclear. METHODS This is a pilot study in which 36 consecutive patients undergoing living-donor kidney transplantation were randomly assigned to receive either 4.5 mg/kg (n = 19) or 6.0 mg/kg (n = 17) of ATG; all patients had corticosteroid withdrawal within 7 days. The primary end point was a composite of biopsy-proven acute rejection, de novo donor-specific antibody formation, and graft failure. RESULTS At 12 months post-transplant, biopsy-proven acute rejection was more common in the ATG4.5 group (21.1%) than in the ATG6.0 group (0%)(P = .048). Importantly, the rate of the composite end point was significantly higher in the ATG4.5 group (36.8% vs 0%)(P = .006). There were significant differences in neither the renal function nor adverse events between the two groups. One case of death-censored graft failure occurred in the ATG4.5 group and no mortality was observed overall. Compared with pre-transplantation, T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and natural killer T (NKT) cells were significantly decreased in the first week post-transplantation except for B cells. Although T and NKT cells in both groups and NK cells in the ATG4.5 group had recovered to the pre-transplant levels, NK cells in the ATG6.0 group remained suppressed until six months post-transplant. CONCLUSIONS Compared with ATG 6.0 mg/kg, ATG 4.5 mg/kg with early corticosteroid withdrawal and low dose maintenance regimen was associated with higher rates of acute rejection in non-sensitized Asian living-donor kidney recipients. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02447822.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngmin Ko
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yu-Mee Wee
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Shin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- * E-mail:
| | - Mi Joung Kim
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Monica Young Choi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Jun Lim
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joo Hee Jung
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunwook Kwon
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Hoon Kim
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Duck Jong Han
- Department of Surgery, Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Predictors of Kidney Delayed Graft Function and Its Prognostic Impact following Combined Liver-Kidney Transplantation: A Recent Single-Center Experience. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102724. [PMID: 35628851 PMCID: PMC9146237 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Combined liver−kidney transplantation (CLKT) improves patient survival among liver transplant recipients with renal dysfunction. However, kidney delayed graft function (kDGF) still represents a common and challenging complication that can negatively impact clinical outcomes. This retrospective study analyzed the incidence, potential risk factors, and prognostic impact of kDGF development following CLKT in a recently transplanted cohort. Specifically, 115 consecutive CLKT recipients who were transplanted at our center between January 2015 and February 2021 were studied. All transplanted kidneys received hypothermic pulsatile machine perfusion (HPMP) prior to transplant. The primary outcome was kDGF development. Secondary outcomes included the combined incidence and severity of developing postoperative complications; development of postoperative infections; biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR); renal function at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-transplant; and death-censored graft and patient survival. kDGF was observed in 37.4% (43/115) of patients. Multivariable analysis of kDGF revealed the following independent predictors: preoperative dialysis (p = 0.0003), lower recipient BMI (p = 0.006), older donor age (p = 0.003), utilization of DCD donors (p = 0.007), and longer delay of kidney transplantation after liver transplantation (p = 0.0003). With a median follow-up of 36.7 months post-transplant, kDGF was associated with a significantly increased risk of developing more severe postoperative complication(s) (p < 0.000001), poorer renal function (particularly at 1 month post-transplant, p < 0.000001), and worse death-censored graft (p = 0.00004) and patient survival (p = 0.0002). kDGF may be responsible for remarkable negative effects on immediate and potentially longer-term clinical outcomes after CLKT. Understanding the important risk factors for kDGF development in CLKT may better guide recipient and donor selection(s) and improve clinical decisions in this increasing group of transplant recipients.
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5
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Eisinger F, Walter E, Nadalin S, Birkenfeld AL, Heyne N, Guthoff M, Mühlbacher T. Late Onset Cerebral Nocardiosis in a Sensitized Renal Transplant Recipient Following Alemtuzumab Induction: A Case Report. Transplant Proc 2021; 54:116-119. [PMID: 34974894 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2021.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Balancing immunosuppressive regimen to prevent rejection yet avoiding severe infectious complications remains a key challenge following renal transplantation, especially in patients sensitized after exposure to human leukocyte antigens. We herein report a late onset infection with nocardia in a sensitized renal transplant recipient. CASE PRESENTATION A 65-year-old male patient, who had received kidney transplantation with alemtuzumab induction due to human leukocyte antigen-sensitization 3 years ago, was admitted with headache and dizziness. A cerebral magnetic resonance imaging scan showed a right parieto-occipital brain abscess. Surgical abscess drainage was performed and microbiology analysis detected Nocardia paucivorans in the abscess fluid. Laboratory results showed persistently reduced lymphocyte and T-cell counts 3 years after transplantation. We started intravenous antibiotic therapy with high dose trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and imipenem/cilastatin. Furthermore, immunosuppression was adapted with discontinuation of mycophenolate. After 7 weeks of intravenous antibiotic therapy, the patient was switched to an oral antibiotic regimen with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and minocycline. In the follow-up magnetic resonance imaging scan, cerebral lesions were substantially reduced, initial symptoms completely disappeared, and allograft function remained stable. CONCLUSIONS Induction therapy with the CD52-antibody alemtuzumab enables transplantation in highly sensitized patients but leads to lymphocyte depletion for several weeks. Our patient presented with prolonged lymphopenia and a significantly reduced T-cell count 3 years after transplantation. To our knowledge, our case is the first to describe a late-onset nocardia infection 3 years after alemtuzumab induction in a renal transplant recipient. It underlines the importance of considering this rare disease in transplant patients, especially after induction therapy with depleting antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Eisinger
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Elias Walter
- Department for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Interfaculty Institute for Microbiology and Infection Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Silvio Nadalin
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas L Birkenfeld
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Nils Heyne
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martina Guthoff
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Mühlbacher
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
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6
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Olaso D, Manook M, Moris D, Knechtle S, Kwun J. Optimal Immunosuppression Strategy in the Sensitized Kidney Transplant Recipient. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3656. [PMID: 34441950 PMCID: PMC8396983 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with previous sensitization events against anti-human leukocyte antigens (HLA) often have circulating anti-HLA antibodies. Following organ transplantation, sensitized patients have higher rates of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) compared to those who are non-sensitized. More stringent donor matching is required for these patients, which results in a reduced donor pool and increased time on the waitlist. Current approaches for sensitized patients focus on reducing preformed antibodies that preclude transplantation; however, this type of desensitization does not modulate the primed immune response in sensitized patients. Thus, an optimized maintenance immunosuppressive regimen is necessary for highly sensitized patients, which may be distinct from non-sensitized patients. In this review, we will discuss the currently available therapeutic options for induction, maintenance, and adjuvant immunosuppression for sensitized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Stuart Knechtle
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (D.O.); (M.M.); (D.M.)
| | - Jean Kwun
- Duke Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (D.O.); (M.M.); (D.M.)
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Betjes MGH, Kho MML, Litjens NHR, de Weerd AE, Roodnat JI. Alemtuzumab as Second-Line Treatment for Late Antibody-Mediated Rejection of Transplanted Kidneys. Transplant Proc 2021; 53:2206-2211. [PMID: 34376313 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Whether the anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody alemtuzumab can be an effective treatment option for late antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) is not known. In a single-center pilot study, 12 patients with late ABMR were given 30 mg subcutaneous alemtuzumab.Median time from transplantation to biopsy was 22 months with 10 of 12 recipients fulfilling criteria for the histologic diagnosis chronic-active ABMR. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) loss before diagnosis was 1.2 mL/min/mo with graft loss (eGFR <15 mL/min) expected to occur within 2 years in 11 of 12 cases. All recipients showed no or an inadequate response to initial treatment with steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin. eGFR at time of alemtuzumab administration was 35 mL/min/1.73 m2 (IQR, 30-42) and stabilized or improved in 10 of 12 recipients within 12 months. Proteinuria was stable in the year after alemtuzumab. At 3-year follow-up, the death-censored graft survival was 68% (uncensored graft survival was 58%). Five cases of 10 cases that could be evaluated at 3-year follow-up had stable eGFR (on average 44 mL/min at 12 months and 42 mL/min at 36 months). Alemtuzumab was generally well tolerated and only 2 cases of opportunistic infections were noted. One case of symptomatic parvovirus B infection and 1 case of BK viral infection occurred, which both cleared at follow-up. In conclusion, alemtuzumab may be of value as a second-line treatment for late ABMR with rapid loss of eGFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel G H Betjes
- Nephrology and Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Marcia M L Kho
- Nephrology and Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolle H R Litjens
- Nephrology and Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies E de Weerd
- Nephrology and Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joke I Roodnat
- Nephrology and Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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8
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Clinical Correlates and Outcomes of Dual Basiliximab and Antithymocyte Globulin Induction in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A National Study. Transplant Direct 2021; 7:e736. [PMID: 35836670 PMCID: PMC9276156 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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9
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Jeong R, Quinn RR, Lentine KL, Ravani P, Ye F, Campbell P, Wen K, Broscheit C, Gourishankar S, Lam NN. Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes of Kidney Transplant Recipients Treated With Both Basiliximab and Antithymocyte Globulin. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2020; 7:2054358120964061. [PMID: 33117549 PMCID: PMC7573718 DOI: 10.1177/2054358120964061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Kidney transplant recipients are given induction therapy to rapidly reduce the immune response and prevent rejection. Guidelines recommend that an interleukin-2 receptor antibody (basiliximab) be the first-line agent and that a lymphocyte-depleting agent (antithymocyte globulin [ATG]) be reserved for those at high immunologic risk. Objective: To determine the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes for patients who receive both basiliximab and ATG for induction compared to either agent alone. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: We used the transplant electronic medical record at the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, Canada. Patients/samples/participants: We included incident adult kidney transplant recipients from 2013 to 2018. Measurements: We measured baseline characteristics, type, and dose of induction therapy used, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at 1-year posttransplant, and outcomes of all-cause graft failure, death-censored graft failure, all-cause mortality, and death with a functioning graft. Methods: Differences between induction groups were compared using chi-square test for categorical variables and Kruskal-Wallis tests for continuous variables. We performed multivariable logistic regression modeling with type of induction therapy as the dependent variable and the case-level factors as the predictors (adjusted odds ratio). We estimated the Kaplan-Meier failure functions and used log-rank tests to assess statistical significance of differences in unadjusted incidence across induction therapy types. We compared cumulative incidence functions using a Fine and Gray competing risk regression model. Results: In all, 430 kidney transplant recipients were followed for a mean of 3.9 years (standard deviation 1.5). Of these, 71% (n = 305) received basiliximab alone, 22% (n = 93) received ATG alone, and 7% (n = 32) received both basiliximab and ATG. After adjusting for age and sex, compared to the basiliximab alone group, patients were more likely to receive dual-induction therapy if they were sensitized (calculated panel reactive antibody ≥80%), had diabetes mellitus or peripheral vascular disease, or experienced delayed graft function. Compared to the ATG alone group, the dual-induction therapy group had worse graft function at 1 year (mean eGFR 42 vs. 59 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = .0008) and an increased risk of all-cause graft failure (31% vs. 13%, P = .02) and death-censored graft failure (16% vs. 4%, P = .03). Limitations: There is a risk of confounding by indication, as patients who received dual-induction therapy likely had worse outcomes due to the indication for dual-induction therapy (such as delayed graft function). Conclusions: In our study, 1 out of 10 recipients who were treated with basiliximab also received ATG for induction therapy. These patients experienced worse outcomes than those treated with ATG alone. Trial registration: Not applicable (cohort study).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Jeong
- Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Robert R Quinn
- Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Krista L Lentine
- Center for Abdominal Transplantation, Saint Louis University, MO, USA
| | - Pietro Ravani
- Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Feng Ye
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Patricia Campbell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Kevin Wen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Chris Broscheit
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Sita Gourishankar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Ngan N Lam
- Cumming School of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, AB, Canada
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10
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Guthoff M, Berger K, Althaus K, Mühlbacher T, Bakchoul T, Steurer W, Nadalin S, Königsrainer A, Heyne N. Low-dose alemtuzumab induction in a tailored immunosuppression protocol for sensitized kidney transplant recipients. BMC Nephrol 2020; 21:178. [PMID: 32404066 PMCID: PMC7218828 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-020-01767-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Induction therapy is crucial in kidney transplantation and constitutes an important cornerstone for long-term allograft survival. Alemtuzumab is a depleting CD52-specific antibody with T- and B-cell activity, leading to prolonged lymphocyte depletion for up to 12 months, with profound immunosuppression and an associated risk of serious infections. Current concepts aim to optimize dosing strategies to reduce side effects. Here we present data from an ongoing centre protocol consisting of low-dose alemtuzumab induction and tailored immunosuppression in sensitized patients undergoing kidney transplantation. Methods 10-year results of the protocol were analysed. Low-dose alemtuzumab induction consisted of a single dose of 20 mg intraoperatively, followed by tacrolimus and corticosteroids for initial immunosuppression, with mycophenolate mofetil suspended until a total lymphocyte count (TLC) >5% or 200/μl was reached. Results Between 01/2007 and 04/2017, 46 patients were treated in accordance with the protocol in 48 kidney transplantations. Median PRAmax was 43 [22-76; IQR] %; all patients had negative CDC-crossmatch prior to transplantation. Low-dose alemtuzumab was well tolerated. Median time to TLC recovery was 77 [62-127; IQR] d. Within a median follow-up of 3.3 [1.5-5.6; IQR] years, 12 (25%) patients developed BPAR, 10 of which were antibody-mediated (3 acute, 7 chronic ABMR). Death-censored 5-year allograft survival was 79.2%, with an excellent allograft function at the end of follow-up. There was no increased rate of infections, in particular viral infections. Conclusions Our protocol, comprising low-dose alemtuzumab induction, initial suspension of mycophenolate mofetil and triple maintenance immunosuppression, provides excellent patient and allograft outcome in sensitized renal allograft recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Guthoff
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.,Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 47, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Kilian Berger
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Karina Althaus
- Center for Clinical Transfusion Medicine, Otfried-Müller-Str. 4/1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Mühlbacher
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.,Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 47, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Tamam Bakchoul
- Center for Clinical Transfusion Medicine, Otfried-Müller-Str. 4/1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Steurer
- Department of General- and Visceral Surgery, Leonberg Hospital, Rutesheimer Str. 50, 71229, Leonberg, Germany
| | - Silvio Nadalin
- Department of General-, Visceral- and Transplant Surgery, University of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alfred Königsrainer
- Department of General-, Visceral- and Transplant Surgery, University of Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Str. 3, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nils Heyne
- Department of Diabetology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 10, 72076, Tübingen, Germany. .,Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Str. 47, 72076, Tübingen, Germany. .,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany.
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11
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Irure J, Sango C, San Segundo D, Fernández-Fresnedo G, Ruiz JC, Benito-Hernández A, Asensio E, López-Hoyos M, Rodrigo E. Late Plasma Cell Depletion After Thymoglobulin Induction in Kidney Transplant Recipients. EXP CLIN TRANSPLANT 2019; 17:732-738. [DOI: 10.6002/ect.2018.0261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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12
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Nemes B, Barta A, Ivádi G, Kárai B, Szánthó E, Hevessy Z, Szabó RP, Szilvási A, Sipka S, Baráth S. T Cell Subset Profile and Appearance of Donor-specific Antibodies in Primary and Retransplanted Kidney Recipients. Transplant Proc 2019; 51:1215-1225. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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13
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van der Zwan M, Baan CC, van Gelder T, Hesselink DA. Review of the Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Alemtuzumab and Its Use in Kidney Transplantation. Clin Pharmacokinet 2018; 57:191-207. [PMID: 28669130 PMCID: PMC5784003 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-017-0573-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Alemtuzumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody against CD52 and causes depletion of T and B lymphocytes, monocytes, and NK cells. Alemtuzumab is registered for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is also used in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Alemtuzumab is used off-label in kidney transplantation as induction and anti-rejection therapy. The objective of this review is to present a review of the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and use of alemtuzumab in kidney transplantation. A systematic literature search was conducted using Ovid Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of controlled trials. No pharmacokinetic or dose-finding studies of alemtuzumab have been performed in kidney transplantation. Although such studies were conducted in patients with CLL and MS, these findings cannot be directly extrapolated to transplant recipients, because CLL patients have a much higher load of CD52-positive cells and, therefore, target-mediated clearance will differ between these two indications. Alemtuzumab used as induction therapy in kidney transplantation results in a lower incidence of acute rejection compared to basiliximab therapy and comparable results as compared with rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG). Alemtuzumab used as anti-rejection therapy results in a comparable graft survival rate compared with rATG, although infusion-related side effects appear to be less. There is a need for pharmacokinetic and dose-finding studies of alemtuzumab in kidney transplant recipients to establish the optimal balance between efficacy and toxicity. Furthermore, randomized controlled trials with sufficient follow-up are necessary to provide further evidence for the treatment of severe kidney transplant rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke van der Zwan
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room NA523, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Carla C Baan
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room NA523, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Teun van Gelder
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room NA523, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis A Hesselink
- Division of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room NA523, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Planinsic RM, Raval JS, Gorantla VS. Anesthesia and Perioperative Care in Reconstructive Transplantation. Anesthesiol Clin 2017; 35:523-538. [PMID: 28784224 DOI: 10.1016/j.anclin.2017.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Reconstructive transplantation of vascularized composite allografts (VCAs), such as upper extremity, craniofacial, abdominal, lower extremity, or genitourinary transplants, has emerged as a cutting-edge specialty, with more than 50 programs in the United States and 30 programs across the world performing these procedures. Most VCAs involve complicated technical planning and preparation, protracted surgery, and complex immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory protocols, each associated with unique anesthesiology challenges. This article outlines key procedural, patient, and protocol-related aspects of VCA relevant to anesthesiology management with the goal of ensuring patient safety and optimizing surgical, immunologic, and functional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond M Planinsic
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 200 Lothrop Street, Suite C-200, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Jay S Raval
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Transfusion Medicine Service, Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Laboratory, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 101 Manning Drive, Suite C3162, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Vijay S Gorantla
- Departments of Surgery, Ophthalmology and Bioengineering, US Air Force, Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Richard H. Dean Biomedical Building, 391 Technology Way, Winston Salem, NC 27101, USA.
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15
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Toyoda M, Shin BH, Ge S, Mirocha J, Thomas D, Chu M, Rodriguez E, Chao C, Petrosyan A, Galera OA, Vo A, Choi J, Peng A, Kahwaji J, Jordan SC. Impact of Desensitization on Antiviral Immunity in HLA-Sensitized Kidney Transplant Recipients. J Immunol Res 2017; 2017:5672523. [PMID: 28265581 PMCID: PMC5317146 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5672523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections represent significant morbidity and mortality factors in kidney transplant recipients, with CMV, EBV, and BKV infections being most common. Desensitization (DES) with IVIg and rituximab with/without plasma exchange followed by kidney transplantation with alemtuzumab induction increased successful transplant rates in HLA-sensitized patients but may represent an increased risk for viral infections due to severe lymphocyte depletion. Here, we report on the posttransplant viral infection status in 372 DES versus 538 non-DES patients. CMV and EBV viremia were significantly lower in DES patients, while BKV viremia was similar. This trend was observed primarily in CMV sero(-), EBV sero(+), and sero(-) patients. No patient developed PTLD. The incidence of BKAN, allograft, and patient survival was similar in both groups. These viral infections were not associated with subsequent allograft rejection which occurred within 6 months after the infection. Conclusions. The IVIg + rituximab desensitization combined with alemtuzumab induction with triple immunosuppression maintenance does not increase the risk for CMV, EBV, and BKV infections. Possible factors include, in addition to posttransplant antiviral prophylaxis and PCR monitoring, presence of memory T cells and antibodies specific to CMV and likely EBV, NK cell-mediated ADCC despite lymphocyte depletion, elimination of EBV and CMV reservoirs by rituximab and alemtuzumab, and use of IVIg with antiviral properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieko Toyoda
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bong-Ha Shin
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shili Ge
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - James Mirocha
- Biostatistics Core, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David Thomas
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maggie Chu
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Edgar Rodriguez
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christine Chao
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anna Petrosyan
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Odette A. Galera
- Transplant Immunology Laboratory, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ashley Vo
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jua Choi
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alice Peng
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joseph Kahwaji
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stanley C. Jordan
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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16
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Ciancio G, Gaynor JJ, Guerra G, Sageshima J, Roth D, Chen L, Kupin W, Mattiazzi A, Tueros L, Flores S, Hanson L, Ruiz P, Vianna R, Burke GW. Randomized trial of rATg/Daclizumab vs. rATg/Alemtuzumab as dual induction therapy in renal transplantation: Results at 8years of follow-up. Transpl Immunol 2016; 40:42-50. [PMID: 27888093 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Our goal in using dual induction therapy is to bring the kidney transplant recipient closer (through more effectively timed lymphodepletion) to an optimally immunosuppressed state. Here, we report long-term results of a prospective randomized trial comparing (Group I,N=100) rATG/Dac (3 rATG, 2 Dac doses) vs. (Group II,N=100) rATG/Alemtuzumab(C1H) (1 dose each), using reduced tacrolimus dosing, EC-MPS, and early corticosteroid withdrawal. Lower EC-MPS dosing was targeted in Group II to avoid severe leukopenia. Median follow-up was 96mo post-transplant. There were no differences in 1st BPAR (including borderline) rates: 10/100 vs. 9/100 in Groups I and II during the first 12mo(P=0.54), and 20/100 vs. 20/100 throughout the study(P=0.90). Equally favorable renal function was maintained in both treatment arms(N.S.). While not significant, more patients in Group II experienced graft loss, 25/100 vs. 18/100 in Group I(P=0.23). Actuarial patient/graft survival at 96mo was 92%/83% vs. 85%/73% in Groups I and II(N.S.). DWFG-due-to-infection(N.S.), EC-MPS withholding-due-to-leukopenia during the first 2mo(P=0.03), and incidence of viral infections(P=0.09) were higher in Group II, whereas EC-MPS withholding-due-to-GI symptoms was higher in Group I(P=0.009). No other adverse event differences were observed. While long-term anti-rejection and renal function efficacy were demonstrated in both treatment arms, slight over-immunosuppression of Group II patients occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Ciancio
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Jeffrey J Gaynor
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Giselle Guerra
- Division of Nephrology of the Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Junichiro Sageshima
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - David Roth
- Division of Nephrology of the Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Linda Chen
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Warren Kupin
- Division of Nephrology of the Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Adela Mattiazzi
- Division of Nephrology of the Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Lissett Tueros
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Sandra Flores
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Lois Hanson
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Phillip Ruiz
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Rodrigo Vianna
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - George W Burke
- The Lillian Jean Kaplan Renal Transplant Center and the Miami Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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17
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CD52-Negative NK Cells Are Abundant in the Liver and Less Susceptible to Alemtuzumab Treatment. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161618. [PMID: 27560943 PMCID: PMC4999148 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background T-cell depleting strategies have become an integral part of immunosuppressive regimens in organ transplantation. Alemtuzumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody against CD52, a cell-surface antigen on several immune cells. It has been suggested that lymphocyte depletion increases the risk of serious infections. However, this has not been observed with short-term alemtuzumab treatment in an organ transplant setting. For induction therapy using alemtuzumab following liver transplantation, we found that T- and B-cell numbers declined rapidly after alemtuzumab therapy; however, the natural killer (NK) cell number was sustained. NK cells are important effectors of innate immunity. Since the effects of alemtuzumab on NK cell functions, especially those of liver NK cells, are unknown, this study aimed to investigate this in detail. Methods To assess the effect of alemtuzumab on NK cells, samples were obtained from 7 organ donors and examined by flow cytometry using Annexin V and propidium iodide. Phenotypical and functional differences within subsets of NK cells with different levels of CD52 expression were determined by flow cytometry and in vitro cytotoxicity assays. Results CD52 expression on NK cells was lower than that on other lymphocyte subsets. The liver contained a large number of CD52− NK cells compared with the peripheral blood. In vitro treatment of liver-derived NK cells with alemtuzumab did not result in cell death. In contrast, co-incubation with alemtuzumab induced cell death in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and non-NK cells in the liver. Furthermore, CD52− liver NK cells were more cytotoxic and produced more IFN-γ than CD52+ NK cells after cytokine activation. Conclusion The liver contains a large number of CD52− NK cells. These cells are refractory to alemtuzumab and have robust activity. These findings indicate that CD52− NK cells persist and could protect against infection after alemtuzumab-based lymphocyte depletion.
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18
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Héquet D, Pascual M, Lartey S, Pathirana RD, Bredholt G, Hoschler K, Hullin R, Meylan P, Cox RJ, Manuel O. Humoral, T-cell and B-cell immune responses to seasonal influenza vaccine in solid organ transplant recipients receiving anti-T cell therapies. Vaccine 2016; 34:3576-83. [PMID: 27219339 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We analyzed the impact of the anti-T-cell agents basiliximab and antithymocyte globulins (ATG) on antibody and cell-mediated immune responses after influenza vaccination in solid-organ transplant recipients. METHODS 71 kidney and heart transplant recipients (basiliximab [n=43] and ATG [n=28]) received the trivalent influenza vaccine. Antibody responses were measured at baseline and 6 weeks post-vaccination by hemagglutination inhibition assay; T-cell responses were measured by IFN-γ ELISpot assays and intracellular cytokine staining (ICS); and influenza-specific memory B-cell (MBC) responses were evaluated using ELISpot. RESULTS Median time of vaccination from transplantation was 29 months (IQR 8-73). Post-vaccination seroconversion rates were 26.8% for H1N1, 34.1% for H3N2 and 4.9% for influenza B in the basiliximab group and 35.7% for H1N1, 42.9% for H3N2 and 14.3% for influenza B in the ATG group (p=0.44, p=0.61, and p=0.21, respectively). The number of influenza-specific IFN-γ-producing cells increased significantly after vaccination (from 35 to 67.5 SFC/10(6) PBMC, p=0.0007), but no differences between treatment groups were observed (p=0.88). Median number of IgG-MBC did not increase after vaccination (H1N1, p=0.94; H3N2 p=0.34; B, p=0.79), irrespective of the type of anti-T-cell therapy. CONCLUSIONS After influenza vaccination, a significant increase in antibody and T-cell immune responses but not in MBC responses was observed in transplant recipients. Immune responses were not significantly different between groups that received basiliximab or ATG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Héquet
- Transplantation Center, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Infectious Diseases Service, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Manuel Pascual
- Transplantation Center, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Lartey
- Influenza Centre, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Rishi D Pathirana
- Influenza Centre, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Geir Bredholt
- Influenza Centre, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Katja Hoschler
- Public Health England, Microbiology Services Colindale, London, United Kingdom
| | - Roger Hullin
- Division of Cardiology, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Meylan
- Infectious Diseases Service, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rebecca J Cox
- Influenza Centre, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Norway; Department of Research and Development, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway; Jebsen Centre for Influenza Vaccine Research, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Oriol Manuel
- Transplantation Center, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Infectious Diseases Service, University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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19
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Effect of induction therapy on the expression of molecular markers associated with rejection and tolerance. BMC Nephrol 2015; 16:146. [PMID: 26286066 PMCID: PMC4545708 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-015-0141-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Induction therapy can improve kidney transplantation (KTx) outcomes, but little is known about the mechanisms underlying its effects. Methods The mRNA levels of T cell-related genes associated with tolerance or rejection (CD247, GZMB, PRF1, FOXP3, MAN1A1, TCAIM, and TLR5) and lymphocyte subpopulations were monitored prospectively in the peripheral blood of 60 kidney transplant recipients before and 7, 14, 21, 28, 60, 90 days, 6 months, and 12 months after KTx. Patients were treated with calcineurin inhibitor-based triple immunosuppression and induction with rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG, n = 24), basiliximab (n = 17), or without induction (no-induction, n = 19). A generalized linear mixed model with gamma distribution for repeated measures, adjusted for rejection, recipient/donor age and delayed graft function, was used for statistical analysis. Results rATG treatment caused an intense reduction in all T cell type population and natural killer (NK) cells within 7 days, then a slow increase and repopulation was observed. This was also noticed in the expression levels of CD247, FOXP3, GZMB, and PRF1. The basiliximab group exhibited higher CD247, GZMB, FOXP3 and TCAIM mRNA levels and regulatory T cell (Treg) counts than the no-induction group. The levels of MAN1A1 and TLR5 mRNA expressions were increased, whereas TCAIM decreased in the rATG group as compared with those in the no-induction group. Conclusion The rATG induction therapy was associated with decreased T and NK cell-related transcript levels and with upregulation of two rejection-associated transcripts (MAN1A1 and TLR5) shortly after KTx. Basiliximab treatment was associated with increased absolute number of Treg cells, and increased level of FOXP3 and TCAIM expression.
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20
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Lymphocytes as an Indicator for Initial Kidney Function: A Single Center Analysis of Outcome after Alemtuzumab or Basiliximab Induction. J Immunol Res 2015; 2015:985460. [PMID: 26171403 PMCID: PMC4480808 DOI: 10.1155/2015/985460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alemtuzumab, an anti-CD52 T-cell and B-cell depleting monoclonal antibody, is established for induction therapy in renal transplantation (KTx). We herein provide a comparative analysis between alemtuzumab and basiliximab induction therapy and correlate lymphocyte depletion and recovery with the clinical course after KTx. This is a single center retrospective analysis of 225 patients/consecutive kidney transplantations treated with alemtuzumab for lymphocyte depletion and 205 recipients treated with basiliximab. Mean lymphocyte counts were 22.8 ± 9.41% before Tx and 2.61 ± 3.11% between week 1 and week 3 in the alemtuzumab group and 23.77 ± 10.42% before Tx and 13.92 ± 8.20% in the basiliximab group. Delayed graft function (DGF), cytomegalovirus (CMV) status, and recipient age showed a significant correlation with lymphocyte counts in the alemtuzumab group only. The outcome was read in reference to the velocity of lymphocyte recovery and in comparison to the control group. Lymphocyte counts early after transplantation, following alemtuzumab treatment, could be identified as a predictive factor for kidney function early after transplantation. A detailed analysis of phenotype and function of lymphocytes after alemtuzumab induction together with a correlation with the clinical course is warranted.
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21
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Performance of the ImmuKnow Assay in Differentiating Infection and Acute Rejection After Kidney Transplantation: A Meta-Analysis. Transplant Proc 2014; 46:3343-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2014.09.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Lacotte S, Oldani G, Slits F, Orci LA, Rubbia-Brandt L, Morel P, Mentha G, Toso C. Alloimmune activation promotes anti-cancer cytotoxicity after rat liver transplantation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91515. [PMID: 24651497 PMCID: PMC3961266 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) results in a specific condition where the immune response is potentially directed against both allogeneic and cancer antigens. We have investigated the level of anti-cancer immunity during allogeneic immune response. Dark Agouti-to-Lewis and Lewis-to-Lewis rat liver transplantations were performed and the recipients anti-cancer immunity was analysed at the time of alloimmune activation. The occurrence of rejection in the allogeneic recipients was confirmed by a shorter survival (p<0.01), increased liver function tests (p<0.01), the presence of signs of rejection on histology, and a donor-specific ex vivo mixed lymphocyte reaction. At the time of alloimmune activation, blood mononuclear cells of the allogeneic group demonstrated increased anti-cancer cytotoxicity (p<0.005), which was related to an increased natural killer (NK) cell frequency (p<0.05) and a higher monocyte/macrophage activation level (p<0.01). Similarly, liver NK cell anti-cancer cytotoxicity (p<0.005), and liver monocyte/macrophage activation levels (p<0.01) were also increased. The alloimmune-associated cytotoxicity was mediated through the NKG2D receptor, whose expression was increased in the rejected graft (p<0.05) and on NK cells and monocyte/macrophages. NKG2D ligands were expressed on rat HCC cells, and its inhibition prevented the alloimmune-associated cytotoxicity. Although waiting for in vivo validation, alloimmune-associated cytotoxicity after rat liver transplantation appears to be linked to increased frequencies and levels of activation of NK cells and monocyte/macrophages, and is at least in part mediated through the NKG2D receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Lacotte
- Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- * E-mail: (SL); (CT)
| | - Graziano Oldani
- Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Florence Slits
- Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lorenzo A. Orci
- Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laura Rubbia-Brandt
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Centre, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Pathology, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Morel
- Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gilles Mentha
- Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Pathology, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christian Toso
- Department of Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Pathology, Geneva University Hospitals, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- * E-mail: (SL); (CT)
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23
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Sageshima J, Ciancio G, Chen L, Dohi T, El-Hinnawi A, Paloyo S, Gaynor JJ, Mattiazzi A, Guerra G, Kupin W, Roth D, Ruiz P, Burke GW. Lack of clinical association and effect of peripheral WBC counts on immune cell function test in kidney transplant recipients with T-cell depleting induction and steroid-sparing maintenance therapy. Transpl Immunol 2014; 30:88-92. [PMID: 24518158 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2014.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Revised: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The Cylex ImmuKnow assay measures the amount of stimulated ATP production by CD4+ T-cells, and has been used clinically, trying to predict rejection and infection episodes. However, predictive values of this assay after induction therapy with steroid-sparing maintenance protocols are unclear. In this single-center cohort study, we analyzed renal transplant recipients who received T-cell depleting+/-anti-IL2 receptor antibodies and tacrolimus/mycophenolate maintenance without steroids. A total of 4224 ImmuKnow levels in 306 patients were available for analysis. ImmuKnow levels (Mean ± SE) changed over time after induction therapy with a paradoxical initial increase: 419 ± 23, 461 ± 32, 519 ± 14, 411 ± 10, 344 ± 6, and 405 ± 3 for pre-transplant, 0-1 wk, 1 wk-1 mo, 1-3 mos, 3 mos-1 yr, and thereafter. This change was parallel to the evolution of peripheral WBC counts and ImmuKnow levels had weak but significant correlation with WBC counts (R(2)=0.264, P<0.0001). The levels for biopsy-proven rejection (389 ± 56) and borderline/clinical rejection (254 ± 41) were not significantly higher than the levels of quiescent patients. The levels for opportunistic infection (349 ± 48) and other infections (345 ± 27) were not significantly lower than the levels of quiescent patients. The longitudinal changes in ImmuKnow levels were not predictive of rejection or infection. In conclusion, ImmuKnow levels can vary after T-cell depleting induction therapies at various time points, even without significant clinical events. Since ImmuKnow levels seem to be affected by WBC counts, ImmuKnow results need to be interpreted with caution. The effects of leukocytosis or leukopenia caused by immunosuppressive medication on the ImmuKnow assay need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junichiro Sageshima
- Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Gaetano Ciancio
- Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Linda Chen
- Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Takehiko Dohi
- Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ashraf El-Hinnawi
- Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Siegfredo Paloyo
- Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Gaynor
- Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Adela Mattiazzi
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Giselle Guerra
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Warren Kupin
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David Roth
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Phillip Ruiz
- Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - George W Burke
- Division of Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Dewitt Daughtry Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Miami Transplant Institute at the Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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24
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McGillicuddy JW, Taber DJ, Pilch NA, Kohout RK, Bratton CF, Chavin KD, Baliga PK. Clinical and Economic Analysis of Delayed Administration of Antithymocyte Globulin for Induction Therapy in Kidney Transplantation. Prog Transplant 2013; 23:33-8. [DOI: 10.7182/pit2013817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Context The increasing number of marginal deceased kidney donors and an aging recipient population, prolonged hospitalization, and increased costs have destabilized the economic viability of kidney transplants. Objective To determine if a delay in the administration of the day-of-discharge dose of rabbit antithymocyte globulin would result in equivalent clinical outcomes with cost savings. Design Single-center, prospective, observational before-and-after study of adult kidney transplant recipients who received induction with rabbit antithymocyte globulin. Intervention—Patients who received a transplant between June 2006 and February 2009 and received rabbit antithymocyte globulin served as the control group. Patients who received a transplant between March 2009 and August 2010 and received rabbit antithymocyte globulin had the day-of-discharge dose delayed to the following day and administered in the clinic. A total of 231 patients (146 in the control group, 85 in the study group) were included. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were similar in the 2 groups. Results Patients who had delayed administration of rabbit antithymocyte globulin had shorter stays (3.9 vs 3.1 days, P .001) and reduced inpatient costs for rabbit antithymocyte globulin (mean $860/patient); these changes were achieved without affecting acute rejection rates (5% vs 5%, P>> .99) or readmission rates. In conclusion, delayed inpatient administration of rabbit antithymocyte globulin provided identical clinical outcomes while helping to reduce inpatient costs and increase timely discharges.
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Impact of anti-T-cell therapy in the immunogenicity of seasonal influenza vaccine in kidney transplant recipients. Transplantation 2012; 94:630-6. [PMID: 22895612 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e31825f7f82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of anti-T-cell therapy in the immunogenicity of the influenza vaccine in kidney transplant recipients remains unclear. METHODS During the 2010 to 2011 influenza season, we evaluated the immune response to the inactivated trivalent influenza vaccine in kidney transplant recipients having received Thymoglobulin or basiliximab as induction therapy. A hemagglutination inhibition assay was used to assess the immunogenicity of the vaccine. The primary outcome was geometric mean titers of hemagglutination inhibition after influenza vaccination. RESULTS Sixty patients (Thymoglobulin n=22 and basiliximab n=38) were included. Patients in the Thymoglobulin group were older (P=0.16), showed higher creatinine levels (P=0.16) and had more frequently received a previous transplant (P=0.02). There were no significant differences in geometric mean titers for any of the three viral strains between groups (P=0.69 for H1N1, P=0.56 for H3N2, and P=0.7 for B strain). Seroconversion to at least one viral strain was seen in 15 (68%) of 22 patients in the Thymoglobulin group and 28 (73%) of 38 in the basiliximab group (P=0.77). In patients vaccinated during the first year after receiving anti-T-cell therapy (n=25), there was a trend toward lower vaccine responses in the Thymoglobulin group. Patients who received Thymoglobulin showed lower CD4(+) cell counts and lower levels of IgM, at an average of 16.2 months after transplantation. A multivariate analysis showed that only the absence of mycophenolate was associated with a better vaccine response (odds ratio=9.47; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-86.9; P=0.047). CONCLUSION No significant differences were seen in immunogenicity of the influenza vaccine in kidney transplant recipients having received either Thymoglobulin or basiliximab.
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Kho MML, Bouvy AP, Cadogan M, Kraaijeveld R, Baan CC, Weimar W. The effect of low and ultra-low dosages Thymoglobulin on peripheral T, B and NK cells in kidney transplant recipients. Transpl Immunol 2012; 26:186-90. [PMID: 22410573 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2012.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2011] [Revised: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 02/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rabbit Anti-Thymocyte Globulin (r-ATG) is a polyclonal antibody preparation, used to prevent and treat acute rejection episodes after organ transplantation. However, despite more than 40 years of clinical use, the optimal dose of r-ATG is still not defined. To find a better balance between efficacy and infectious complications, we embarked on a controlled study and monitored the effect of low and ultra-low dosages Thymoglobulin (Genzyme) on peripheral T, B, and NK cells. PATIENTS AND METHODS Kidney transplant recipients received either 0.5 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg or 2.0 mg/kg on the first 3 consecutive days post-transplantation. Thus, total doses were 1.5 mg/kg, 3.0 mg/kg and 6.0 mg/kg. A total of 40 patients were enrolled, including 11 controls. All patients were treated with Prednisolon, Advagraf (Astellas) and Mycophenolate Mofetil (Roche). T (CD3+), B (CD19+) and NK (CD3-CD16+56+) cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Baseline cell counts were compared to forty age and sex matched healthy persons. Post-transplantation cell counts of the 3 Thymoglobulin groups were compared to the 11 control patients, who received no induction therapy. RESULTS Absolute numbers of T, B, and NK cells were comparable in all patients pre-transplantation, but T and B cells were lower than in healthy persons (p=0.007 and p=0.0003, Mann Whitney test). In the first week, T cells and NK cells were significantly lower in all Thymoglobulin groups compared to controls. B cells were not affected. One month after Thymoglobulin NK cells had returned to control numbers in all groups, while T cells had already recovered to control counts in the 1.5 mg/kg group. During follow-up, T cells in the 3.0mg/kg group also returned to control values, but at one year the patients in the 6.0 mg/kg group still had significantly lower T cells (p=0.03). Patient and graft survival, rejection and infection incidence and renal function did not differ between groups. CONCLUSION Patients with end stage renal disease have significantly lower peripheral T and B cell counts than healthy persons. (Ultra-) low Thymoglobulin schedules deplete peripheral lymphocytes in a dose dependent way. Knowledge of the duration of this depletion contributes to finding the optimal immunosuppressive strategy for kidney transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M L Kho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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