Steroid-free immunosuppression in kidney transplantation: an editorial review

Impact of kidney transplantation on functional status

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Functional capacity (FC) is known to affect morbidity and mortality in kidney transplantation. Despite this important role, little is known about the variables influencing post-transplant FC. Our study aims at identifying these crucial associations.

METHOD

Our study included 16,684 renal transplant recipients (RTR). Patients had transplant between 1 September 2018 and 1 September 2019. Mild functional impairment was defined as those with a KPSS score > or = 80; moderate functional impairment was defined as those with a KPSS score between 50 and 70 and severe functional impairment was defined as those with a KPSS score < or =40. The outcome measured was FC at follow-up one-year post-transplant. Abnormal FC at follow-up was defined as those with KPSS score less than 80%. Normal FC at follow-up was defined as those with KPSS score equal or above 80%. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess with the relationship between patient characteristics and abnormal functional status post-transplant.

RESULTS

Three groups were identified; those with none-to-mild functional impairment at time of transplant (Group A; n = 8388), those who had moderate impairment at time of transplant (Group B; n = 7694) and those who had severe impairment at time of transplant (Group C; n = 602). Abnormal FC at one-year post transplant was present in 7.69%, 28.89%, 49.49% of patients in group A, B and C, respectively. Glucocorticoid withdrawal was associated with lower risk of developing abnormal FC post-transplant (OR = 0.75, p value = .02, 95% confidence intervals: 0.64 to 0.97), while recipient diabetes was associated with higher risk of abnormal FC (OR = 1.44, p value <.01, 95% confidence intervals: 1.20 to 1.74) in adjusted model.

CONCLUSION

Kidney transplantation is associated with substantial improvement in all stages of FC in KTRs. Glucocorticoid withdrawal and diabetes mellitus are potentially modifiable factors of FC and merit further considerations during pre-transplant workup and post-transplant immunosuppressive therapeutic planning.Key messagesKidney transplantation is associated with substantial improvement in all stages of FC in KTRs.Glucocorticoid withdrawal and diabetes mellitus are potentially modifiable factors of FC and merit further considerations during pre-transplant workup and post-transplant immunosuppressive therapeutic planning.

A perspective on the potential detrimental role of inflammation in pig orthotopic heart xenotransplantation

There is a critical shortage of deceased human donor organs for transplantation. The need is perhaps most acute in neonates and infants with life-threatening congenital heart disease, in whom mechanical support devices are largely unsuccessful. If orthotopic (life-supporting) heart transplantation (OHTx) were consistently successful in the genetically engineered pig-to-nonhuman primate (NHP) model, a clinical trial of bridging with a pig heart in such patients might be justified. However, the results of pig OHTx in NHPs have been mixed and largely poor. We hypothesise that a factor is the detrimental effects of the inflammatory response that is known to develop (a) during any surgical procedure that requires cardiopulmonary bypass, and (b) immediately after an NHP recipient is exposed to a pig xenograft. We suggest that the combination of these two inflammatory responses has a direct detrimental effect on pig heart graft function, but also, and possibly of more importance, on recipient baboon pulmonary function, which further impacts survival of the pig heart graft. In addition, the inflammatory response almost certainly adversely impacts the immune response to the graft. If our hypothesis is correct, the potential steps that could be taken to reduce the inflammatory response or its effects (with varying degrees of efficacy) include (a) white blood cell filtration, (b) complement depletion or inactivation, (c) immunosuppressive therapy, (d) high-dose corticosteroid therapy, (e) cytokine/chemokine-targeted therapy, (f) ultrafiltration or CytoSorb hemoperfusion, (g) reduction in the levels of endogenous catecholamines, (h) triiodothyronine therapy and (i) genetic engineering of the organ-source pig. Prevention of the inflammatory response, or attenuation of its effects, by judicious anti-inflammatory therapy may contribute not only to early survival of the recipient of a genetically engineered pig OHTx, but also to improved long-term pig heart graft survival. This would open the possibility of initiating a clinical trial of genetically engineered pig OHTx as a bridge to allotransplantation.

Prolonged-Release vs Immediate-Release Tacrolimus Capsules in Black vs White Kidney Transplant Patients: A Post Hoc Analysis of Phase III Data

BACKGROUND

Black kidney transplant patients experience inferior outcomes compared with other ethnicities. Because scrutiny is required when immunosuppressant drugs are used in such at-risk populations, we report the first large-scale clinical efficacy data assessing prolonged-release tacrolimus (PR-T) in black de novo kidney transplant patients.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We used logistic regression and proportionate hazards to compare a composite outcome measure (biopsy-proven acute rejection, graft loss, mortality, and loss to follow-up) in black and white patients in treatment groups longer than 24 weeks, from 3 large Phase III randomized controlled trials. Secondary endpoints included tacrolimus trough concentration, dose, and estimated glomerular filtration rate.

RESULTS

The study included 2162 patients whose treatments belonged to two categories (immediate-release tacrolimus: 77 black patients, 721 white patients; and PR-T: 87 black patients, 1277 white patients). Despite demographic factors generally predictive of worse outcomes, efficacy failure among black patients who received PR-T was non-inferior to that among white patients who received either therapy. Compared with immediate-release tacrolimus, black patients who received PR-T achieved stable tacrolimus concentrations 2.5 times faster (21 vs 56 days, P = .04), and more achieved stable target concentrations (76.7% vs 69.3%). Treatment-emergent adverse events were consistent with those reported separately in pivotal trials.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, black patients who received PR-T achieved non-inferior outcomes compared to white patients, despite higher pretransplant risk among black patients. Moreover, PR-T improved the time to achieve, and the likelihood of reaching, stable therapeutic concentrations among black patients, suggesting that PR-T could improve the consistency of tacrolimus exposure in this patient population.

Steroid avoidance or withdrawal for kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Steroid-sparing strategies have been attempted in recent decades to avoid morbidity from long-term steroid intake among kidney transplant recipients. Previous systematic reviews of steroid withdrawal after kidney transplantation have shown a significant increase in acute rejection. There are various protocols to withdraw steroids after kidney transplantation and their possible benefits or harms are subject to systematic review. This is an update of a review first published in 2009.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of steroid withdrawal or avoidance for kidney transplant recipients.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Specialised Register to 15 February 2016 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which steroids were avoided or withdrawn at any time point after kidney transplantation were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Assessment of risk of bias and data extraction was performed by two authors independently and disagreement resolved by discussion. Statistical analyses were performed using the random-effects model and dichotomous outcomes were reported as relative risk (RR) and continuous outcomes as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 48 studies (224 reports) that involved 7803 randomised participants. Of these, three studies were conducted in children (346 participants). The 2009 review included 30 studies (94 reports, 5949 participants). Risk of bias was assessed as low for sequence generation in 19 studies and allocation concealment in 14 studies. Incomplete outcome data were adequately addressed in 22 studies and 37 were free of selective reporting.The 48 included studies evaluated three different comparisons: steroid avoidance or withdrawal compared with steroid maintenance, and steroid avoidance compared with steroid withdrawal. For the adult studies there was no significant difference in patient mortality either in studies comparing steroid withdrawal versus steroid maintenance (10 studies, 1913 participants, death at one year post transplantation: RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.30) or in studies comparing steroid avoidance versus steroid maintenance (10 studies, 1462 participants, death at one year after transplantation: RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.80). Similarly no significant difference in graft loss was found comparing steroid withdrawal versus steroid maintenance (8 studies, 1817 participants, graft loss excluding death with functioning graft at one year after transplantation: RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.92) and comparing steroid avoidance versus steroid maintenance (7 studies, 1211 participants, graft loss excluding death with functioning graft at one year after transplantation: RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.86). The risk of acute rejection significantly increased in patients treated with steroids for less than 14 days after transplantation (7 studies, 835 participants: RR 1.58, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.30) and in patients who were withdrawn from steroids at a later time point after transplantation (10 studies, 1913 participants, RR 1.77, 95% CI 1.20 to 2.61). There was no evidence to suggest a difference in harmful events, such as infection and malignancy, in adult kidney transplant recipients. The effect of steroid withdrawal in children is unclear.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This updated review increases the evidence that steroid avoidance and withdrawal after kidney transplantation significantly increase the risk of acute rejection. There was no evidence to suggest a difference in patient mortality or graft loss up to five year after transplantation, but long-term consequences of steroid avoidance and withdrawal remain unclear until today, because prospective long-term studies have not been conducted.

Corticosteroids in Solid Organ Transplantation: Update and Review of the Literature

Corticosteroids have been a constant in immunosuppressive regimens since the beginning of solid organ transplantation. Although the use of corticosteroids allowed the advancement of transplantation in the early years, this came at the price of numerous adverse events for patients. As the survival of transplanted organs has risen over the past several years, increasing attention has been focused on the management of long-term complications. Many of these long-term complications are directly related to the toxicities of immunosuppressive agents. Due to these toxicities, we have seen a resurgence in immunosuppressive protocols that utilize regimens designed to minimize these long-term complications. This has been accomplished by avoiding, reducing or withdrawing one or more medications from the multi-drug regimens. Corticosteroids, with their plethora of side affects, have been of major interest to the transplant community in terms of minimizing side affects by limiting exposure.

Using donor-specific antibodies to monitor the need for immunosuppression

BACKGROUND

Experience with tolerance protocols has shown that none is perfect and that each escape from tolerance must be identified early to prevent graft failure. In addition, some test is needed for patients who are weaned off immunosuppression (IS) to forewarn of weaning failure. The usual measures of function--such as serum creatinine levels--are not sensitive enough to detect rejection in a timely manner.

METHODS

A study was carried out on 72 patients who received living-donor kidney transplants with clonal deletion protocol (total lymphoid irradiation or bortezomib), and followed with reduced doses of maintenance IS. Every month or every 2 months, a test was performed for donor-specific antibodies (DSA) using Luminex mixed and/or single antigen beads.

RESULTS

After transplantation, DSA developed in 17% of the patients at 6 months, 41% at 1 year, and 57% at 2 years, with 95% confidence limits of 10%, 28%; 30%, 55%; and 44%, 71%, respectively. Fifty-three percent of patients weaned IS to less than 10 mg prednisone daily experienced DSA within 3 months. Furthermore, prednisone dose (per 2.5 mg) and years after transplantation were inversely associated with DSA production (risk ratio 0.92 [95% confidence limits: 0.85, 0.99], and 0.70 [0.49, 1.00]).

CONCLUSIONS

DSA monitoring is highly effective for detecting escape from tolerance and reemergence of the immune response in weaned patients. DSA appearance was inversely proportional to the level of maintenance drugs in the weaning process. Measurement of DSA on a monthly basis is adequate for detection of the change in immune reactivity.

Steroid avoidance with early intensified dosing of enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium: a randomized multicentre trial in kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Short-term intensified dosing using enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS) reduces rejection after kidney transplantation without compromising safety and may facilitate steroid avoidance.

METHODS

In a 6-month, multicentre open-label trial, 222 de novo kidney transplant recipients at low-immunological risk were randomized to steroid avoidance or maintenance steroids with interleukin (IL)-2 receptor antibody (IL-2RA) induction, EC-MPS (2160 mg/day to Week 6, 1440 mg/day thereafter) and cyclosporine.

RESULTS

The primary end point; treatment failure at Month 6 [biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), graft loss, death or loss to follow-up], occurred in 17.9% (20/112) of steroid-avoidance patients and 14.5% (16/110) of controls (difference 3.4%, 95% confidence interval -6.3 to 13.1, P = 0.47 for superiority testing). BPAR occurred in 11.6 and 7.3% of patients in the steroid-avoidance and control arms, respectively (P = 0.27). Creatinine clearance was similar at Month 6 (steroid-avoidance 56 ± 18 mL/min/1.73 m(2), controls 60 ± 22 mL/min/1.73 m(2), P = 0.34). Cytomegalovirus infection, as reported by investigators, occurred in 12.5% of steroid-avoidance patients and 22.7% of controls (P = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

A regimen of early intensified EC-MPS dosing with calcineurin inhibitor and IL-2RA induction permits oral steroid avoidance in adult kidney transplant patients at low-immunological risk without compromising efficacy at 6 months' follow-up.

Steroids in kidney transplant patients

Any evaluation of steroids in kidney transplantation is hampered by individual variability in metabolism, the lack of clinically available steroid blood levels, and overall little attention to steroid exposure. Many feel that steroids were an essential part of chronic immunosuppression in past decades but may no longer be necessary in low-risk populations when our newer and more potent drugs are used. Potential differences in long-term outcome will be unapparent in short-term antibody induction studies in low-risk patients, particularly with low on steroid doses, as may have happened in the recent, well-done Astellas trial. In many studies, the evidence for the superiority of mycophenolate (MMF) and tacrolimus (TAC) was not as strong as the evidence for the benefit of steroids in the Canadian cyclosporine study. As the practice of steroid withdrawal has increased, we have not seen the improvement in long-term graft survival that many expected with our newer agents. Steroids have immunosuppressive effects even in doses that are low by historic standards, and side effects may not justify their abandonment.

Early steroid withdrawal in repeat kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Kidney re-transplantation (KRT) candidates are considered at high risk for graft failure. Most of these patients are kept on a chronic steroid maintenance (CSM) regimen. The safety of early steroid withdrawal (ESW) remains unanswered in KRT.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

This study was aimed at comparing the outcomes of ESW and CSM in KRT. Retrospective analysis of 113 KRT patients (ESW, n=59; CSM, n=54) was performed. All patients received rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin/steroid induction and were maintained on mycophenolate/tacrolimus (±steroids).

RESULTS

One- and 5-year patient survival for the ESW and the CSM group were not significantly different (98 versus 96% and 91 versus 88%, respectively; P=0.991). No significant difference was seen in the graft survival for both groups at 1 and 5 years (98 versus 93% and 80 versus 74%, respectively; P=0.779). Mean 1- and 5-year estimated GFR was not statistically different between the groups (P=0.773 and 0.790, respectively). The incidence of acute rejection at 1 year was 17 and 22% in ESW and CSM patients, respectively (P=0.635). Compared with the ESW group, patients in the CSM group were more likely to be hyperlipidemic (P=0.044), osteoporotic (P=0.010), post-transplant diabetics (P=0.051) and required more medications to control BP (P=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

ESW seems to be a reasonable approach in KRT recipients because the short and intermediate patient survival, graft survival, and graft function is comparable to CSM immunosuppression.

Metabolic syndrome in pediatric renal transplant recipients: comparing early discontinuation of steroids vs. steroid group

Steroids have played a valuable role in transplantation as a treatment option. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of MS in pediatric RT patients receiving SG or early SWG; SG discontinued five days after transplantation. We retrospectively reviewed 58 pediatric RT patients between 2000 and 2007. MS criterion was defined as the presence of any three of five criteria: (i) BMI >97th percentile, (ii) hypertension (SBP/DBP > 95th percentile or on medications); (iii) triglycerides > 95thpercentile, (iv) HDL cholesterol < 5th percentile, (v) fasting glucose > 100 mg/dL. Twenty-five patients (43%) received SG and 33 patients (57%) received SWG. The prevalence of MS in SG was 68% compared to 15% in SWG. At six months and one yr after transplantation, mean serum glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides were significantly lower in the SWG. The prevalence of hypertension was significantly lower in the SWG, and patients in the SWG received significantly less lipid-lowering and anti-hypertensive medications than SG. Mean BMI percentile was significantly higher in SG one yr after transplantation but not after six months, although always significantly higher in patients with MS (p < 0.05). From this study, we conclude that for pediatric RT patients, cardiovascular risk factors are significantly lower in SG withdrawal groups.

Rapid discontinuation of corticosteroids in pediatric renal transplantation

Corticosteroid immunosuppression has permitted the development of successful allotransplantation; however, corticosteroids are associated significant post-transplant complications. To circumvent these problems, we implemented a protocol of rapid discontinuation of corticosteroids in 19 consecutive pediatric primary kidney transplant recipients. Mean age at time of transplant was 13.4 (+/-4.5) yr, 52.6% were male, 63.2% underwent living donor transplantation. All patients were administered Thymoglobulin [anti-thymocyte globulin (rabbit)] as induction immunosuppression with a rapid tapering dose of corticosteroids (total of five daily doses), and maintained on mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus. Two patients had immediate recurrence of primary disease (FSGS), requiring further corticosteroid therapy. Otherwise, remaining 17 patients were maintained off corticosteroids, with excellent graft function; mean baseline eGFR of 112 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (+/-19) at 28 months (+/-14) post-transplantation. There was 100% patient and rejection-free graft survival at 27 months (range 5-58 months) post-transplantation; 47% underwent renal transplant biopsy secondary to acute rise in serum creatinine with or without worsening hypertension. All biopsies had no evidence of acute rejection; 62.5% had findings consistent with tacrolimus toxicity. Renal transplantation utilizing a rapid discontinuation of corticosteroid protocol in pediatric patients appears to be safe and effective, without increasing the risk of acute rejection or graft loss.

Minimizing immunosuppression, an alternative approach to reducing side effects: objectives and interim result

Exceptionally low acute rejection rates and excellent graft survival can be achieved with cyclosporine and tacrolimus (CNI)-based immunosuppressive protocols that incorporate antiproliferative immunosuppressants and corticosteroids. However, despite short-term success, long-term attrition of graft function and side effects of immunosuppressive agents continue to be significant problems, leaving clinicians looking for possible interventions. CNI nephrotoxicity is but one of numerous factors that may contribute to long-term damage in transplant kidneys. Metabolic, cosmetic, and neuropsychiatric complications of steroids affect quality of life after transplantation. Newer immunosuppressive agents such as mycophenolate mofetil and sirolimus (Rapa) have raised the possibility of withdrawing or avoiding CNIs or steroids altogether. In this report we review studies that address either CNI or steroid minimization strategies and discuss their risks versus benefits. Given the accumulated experience to date, in our opinion the use of CNIs and steroids as part of immunosuppressive regimens remains the proven standard of care for renal transplant patients. The long-term safety and efficacy of CNI and steroid minimization strategies needs to be further validated in controlled clinical trials with adequate long-term follow-up.

A randomized, multicenter study of steroid avoidance, early steroid withdrawal or standard steroid therapy in kidney transplant recipients

In a randomized, open-label, multicenter study, de novo renal transplant patients received no steroids (n = 112), steroids to day 7 (n = 115), or standard steroids (n = 109) with cyclosporine microemulsion (CsA-ME), enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS) and basiliximab. The primary objective, to demonstrate noninferiority of 12-month GFR in the steroid-free or steroid-withdrawal groups versus standard steroids, was not met in the intent-to-treat population. However, investigational groups were not inferior to standard steroids in the observed-case analysis. Median 12-month GFR was not significantly different in the steroid-free or steroid-withdrawal groups (58.6 mL/min/1.73 m(2) and 59.1 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) versus standard steroids (60.8 mL/min/1.73 m(2)). The 12-month incidence of biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), graft loss or death was 36.0% in the steroid-free group (p = 0.007 vs. standard steroids), 29.6% with steroid withdrawal (N.S.) and 19.3% with standard steroids. BPAR was significantly less frequent with standard steroids than either of the other two regimens. Reduced de novo use of antidiabetic and lipid-lowering medication, triglycerides and weight gain were observed in one or both steroid-minimization group versus standard steroids. For standard-risk renal transplant patients receiving CsA-ME, EC-MPS and basiliximab, steroid withdrawal by the end of week 1 achieves similar 1-year renal function to a standard-steroids regimen, and may be more desirable than complete steroid avoidance.

Assessment and management of a patient with a renal transplant

Renal transplant recipients admitted on the medical take can be challenging for the clinician. Immunosuppressant medications, reduced renal functional reserve, increased vascular risk, and propensity to uncommon infections and malignancies all contribute to make management more complex than in other patients. This article reviews salient points in the management of such patients by the non-specialist.

Corticosteroid withdrawal in kidney transplantation: the present status

Corticosteroids (CS) have played a vital role in organ transplantation, both for prevention and treatment of allograft rejection. However, the use of CS is associated with a wide range of adverse effects. With advances in immunosuppressive drug therapy, attempts have been made to minimize the use of CS to avoid or alleviate their side effects. Withdrawal of CS months after transplantation has transitioned to days. In low to intermediate risk renal allograft recipients, use of induction therapy and modern maintenance drug combinations allows safe withdrawal of CS within the first week of transplantation. In other groups, existing potent maintenance agents permit tapering of CS to low doses over the first few months. Withdrawal of these small doses may not add to the benefits.

Long-term graft outcomes after steroid withdrawal in African American kidney transplant recipients receiving sirolimus and tacrolimus

BACKGROUND

We previously reported excellent short-term outcomes in African American kidney transplant patients receiving tacrolimus/sirolimus and withdrawn from corticosteroid therapy three months after transplantation. We now report the long-term outcomes of patients subjected to this protocol.

METHODS

In all, 47 African American kidney transplant recipients were enrolled in an uncontrolled trial in which they were initially treated with sirolimus, tacrolimus, and corticosteroids, without antibody induction therapy. Eligible patients were withdrawn from prednisone between three and five months posttransplant, and followed for acute rejection and changes in renal function. Outcomes (group 1, n=32) were compared to those of patients deemed not to be candidates for steroid withdrawal (group 2, n=15).

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up of 48.5 months, 13 of 32 patients (41%) in group 1 developed acute rejection; only 13 patients (41%) remain steroid-free. Nine of 13 rejection episodes were associated with noncompliance. Graft loss occurred in 8 of 32 patients (25%) in group 1 and in 5 of 15 patients (33%) in group 2 (P=NS). Serum creatinine rose from 1.4+/-0.41 to 2.45+/-1.7 mg/dL in group 1 (P=0.004) and from 2.1+/-0.45 to 2.62+/-1.2 mg/dL (P=NS) in group 2. Among 13 patients in group 1 who remain steroid-free, creatinine concentration has risen from 1.28+/-.0.37 prior to steroid withdrawal to 1.64+0.54 at last follow-up (P=0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

Late noncompliance and/or rejection in African Americans withdrawn from steroids have a negative impact on long-term graft function and survival. Steroid withdrawal may be associated with long-term deterioration of renal function, even in the absence of overt acute rejection.

Renal Transplantation in High-Risk Patients

Renal transplantation in high-risk patients is a growing phenomenon. More patients are progressing to endstage renal failure, in the setting of an increased incidence of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Current organ shortages and the use of more marginal donors have affected both patient and graft survival. Acute rejection has been minimised under modern immunosuppression; however, patient and long-term allograft outcomes have not improved concurrently. Specific understanding of donor, recipient and allograft variables associated with stratification of patients as 'high risk for renal transplantation' is necessary to facilitate appropriate peri- and post-transplant pharmacotherapy. Induction and maintenance immunosuppression choices are different for high-risk patients and must be made to ensure optimal immunosuppression, while limiting patient and allograft toxicity.

Steroid-free immunosuppression regime reduces both long-term cardiovascular morbidity and patient mortality in renal transplant recipients

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the impact of steroid therapy on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and patient mortality, in 486 on-CsA renal transplant recipients, with a follow-up of 9.5 +/- 4.3 yr. Two hundred and one patients had their steroids permanently withdrawn at sixth month after transplantation (G1); 285 patients did not (G2) as they were unable (acute rejection after suspension) or unsuitable (because of clinical criteria or immunosuppressive protocols). The CVD considered were coronary artery disease diagnosed by angiography and myocardial infarction. G1 and G2 patients were well-matched regarding CVD risk factors, except for age (G1: 44 +/- 14 yr; G2: 40 +/- 12 yr; p < 0.003), incidence of male (G1: 62%; G2: 72%, p < 0.02) incidence of acute rejection (G1: 39%; G2: 83%, p < 0.0001). Both CVD and deaths occurring during the first year of transplantation were excluded from the analysis. At 20 yr, the cumulative probability of developing a CVD, was 3.8% in G1; 23.8% in G2 (p < 0.0005). Patient survival rate was 95% in G1; 62% in G2 (p < 0.003). Mortality caused by CVD was higher in G2 (4.2% vs. 0.5%; p < 0.03). The Cox analysis identified in steroid therapy the main independent risk factors for both CVD (hazard ratio 9.56 p < 0.0001) and patient mortality (hazard ratio 5.99, p < 0.0001). At 10th and 15th year after transplantation, the mean-daily dose of steroids was 4.2 mg. In the long-term, steroid therapy, even in low-doses, increases significantly both the rate of CVD and patient mortality. This retrospective study suggests that steroid-free regime should always be recommended for the prevention of post-transplant CVD. This relevant statement should be followed by a long-term prospective study.

Steroid Sparing in Kidney Transplantation: Changing Paradigms, Improving Outcomes, and Remaining Questions

The widely known adverse effects of long-term therapy with corticosteroids have motivated increasing interest in steroid-free immunosuppression for kidney transplant recipients. Results from recent trials that used newer immunosuppressants to facilitate elimination of steroids suggest better short-term results than were achieved in an earlier era. However, the best results have been reported in uncontrolled trials of low-risk patients or in randomized trials with relatively short periods of follow-up. Increasingly, the therapeutic paradigm has shifted from late withdrawal of steroids to very early withdrawal after transplantation or even complete avoidance. Induction antibody therapy has been used routinely in the most successful trials that involved early steroid withdrawal or avoidance. Although the outcomes of kidney transplant recipients who are treated with steroid-free immunosuppression are improving steadily, there still is room for concern in recommending this strategy as a standard of practice.

WOFIE Stimulates Regulatory T Cells: A 2-Year Follow-up of Renal Transplant Recipients1

BACKGROUND

Initial interruption of immunosuppression for 72 hr was analyzed in renal transplant recipients according to Calne et al.'s "window of opportunity for immunologic engagement" (WOFIE) concept.

METHODS

This pilot study was designed as a randomized, open-label, prospective trial of 40 recipients (20 in the WOFIE group, 20 in the control group) of cadaveric kidney transplants who were followed up for 2 years. Immunosuppression comprised tacrolimus (trough levels 5-8 ng/mL), daclizumab (1 mg per kilogram of body weight on day 0 and after 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks), mycophenolate mofetil (1-2 g/day), and prednisolone (maintenance dose of 10 mg/day). After induction with daclizumab, prednisolone, and mycophenolate mofetil, immunosuppression was interrupted for 72 hr in the WOFIE group. Steroid withdrawal followed in both groups within 12 to 16 weeks posttransplant.

RESULTS

Patient and graft survival did not differ significantly between the two cohorts. However, the WOFIE group experienced less acute rejection episodes and developed better graft function. Although all but one of the patients in the WOFIE group successfully discontinued steroid treatment, permanent steroid withdrawal was achieved in only 76.4% of the control group. After daclizumab discontinuation, the WOFIE group demonstrated an increase of CD4CD25 T cells in peripheral blood (P<0.05 vs. control group), which was stable over time and strongly correlated with a significantly higher expression level of Foxp3-mRNA.

CONCLUSIONS

Initial interruption of immunosuppression for 72 hr correlates with the induction of regulatory immunologic mechanisms and allows early and reliable minimization of immunosuppressive treatment.

Prednisone withdrawal in pediatric kidney transplant recipients on tacrolimus-based immunosuppression: four-year data

Corticosteroids have been used in renal transplant immunosuppression for over 40 yr. Despite their adverse effects, steroid therapy continues to be part of early as well as maintenance immunosuppression in most pediatric renal transplant centers. The association of steroids with growth retardation, weight gain, and acne may be particularly distressing during the critical years of adolescence and young adulthood, increasing the risk of medication non-adherence. This study reviews the outcomes of pediatric renal transplant patients treated with low-dose tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, or azathioprine, and planned prednisone withdrawal. Thirty-seven pediatric renal transplant recipients were withdrawn from steroids. The mean follow-up after steroid withdrawal was 42+/-19 months. Graft and patient survival were 100%. The mean serum creatinine levels and calculated creatinine clearances remained stable throughout the period of observation. The mean creatinine clearance was 96+/-24 mL/min/1.73 m2 at steroid withdrawal and 93+/-20 mL/min/1.73 m2 at the latest follow-up. Five patients restarted prednisone; in four (11%) it was for suspected or confirmed acute rejection. Improvements were observed in serum lipid profiles, blood pressure, and body mass index. Most patients experienced catchup or stable growth after prednisone withdrawal. Four patients developed viral infections; all were successfully treated. The potential benefits of steroid withdrawal in pediatric renal transplantation are supported by our results.

Simultaneous corticosteroid avoidance and calcineurin inhibitor minimization in renal transplantation

Steroids and calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) have been mainstays of immunosuppression but both have numerous side effects that are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. This study was carried out to determine if steroids can be eliminated with early discontinuation of cyclosporine A (CsA) and later discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). Ninety-six patients with kidney transplants were entered into four subgroups of two pilot studies. All patients received Thymoglobulin induction, rapamycin (RAPA), and the immunonutrients arginine and an oil containing omega-3 fatty acids. Mycophenolate mofetil was started in standard doses and discontinued by 2 years. CsA was given in reduced doses for either 4, 6, or 12 months. Follow-up was 12-36 months. Thirteen first rejection episodes occurred during the first year (14%). Combining all patients, 86% were rejection-free at 1 year, 80% at 2 years and 79% at 3 years. No kidney has been lost to acute rejection. Ninety percent of the 84 patients at risk at the end of the study were steroid-free and 87% were off CNI. Fifty-seven percent of 54 patients with a functioning kidney at 3 years were receiving monotherapy with RAPA. We conclude that this therapeutic strategy is worthy of a prospective multi-center clinical trial.

Early discontinuation of steroids is safe and effective in pediatric kidney transplant recipients

In pediatric kidney transplantation, steroid induced growth retardation and cushingoid features are of particular concern. In children, gradual steroid withdrawal late after kidney transplantation increases the risk of rejection. In this pilot study, we investigated the outcome of pediatric renal transplantation with an early steroid withdrawal protocol. This is a retrospective case-control study of pediatric renal transplants with age-matched historical control. Groups were comparable in terms of HLA matching, donor type and graft ischemia time. In the steroid withdrawal group (SWG, n = 13), induction therapy included mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and a 5-day course of steroids with Thymoglobulin in 11 and basiliximab in two other patients. In the steroid group (SG, n = 13), in addition to steroids, four patients were given basiliximab, eight were given Thymoglobulin, and one OKT3. Maintenance therapy included tacrolimus (SWG n = 11, SG n = 3) or cyclosporine (SWG n = 2, SG n = 10). Azathioprine was given to all the patients in the SG, except the last two patients of this series who were prescribed MMF. MMF was given to all in the SWG. Patient and graft survival rates were 100% in both groups. In the SWG, no acute rejection episode was detected. In the steroid group, three patients (25%) presented with an acute rejection episode. All but one patient in either group showed immediate graft function. Patients in the steroid-withdrawal group exhibited a significantly higher creatinine clearance at 6 and 12 months post-transplant (95.8 +/- 23.3 vs. 71.3 +/- 21.9, p = 0.03; and 91.3 +/- 21.6 vs. 69.6 +/- 28.6, p = 0.04). In the SWG delta BMI was significantly lower and delta height Z score was significantly higher, and we observed significantly less hyperlipidemia, body disfigurement, and need for anti-hypertensive medication. Early steroid withdrawal in pediatric renal transplant recipients is efficacious and safe and does not increase risk of rejection, preserving optimal growth and renal function, and reducing cardiovascular risk factors.

Steroid avoidance in renal transplantation using basiliximab induction, cyclosporine-based immunosuppression and protocol biopsies

BACKGROUND

Reducing chronic steroid exposure is important to minimize steroid-related morbidity, particularly for susceptible renal transplant recipients. Steroid-free and steroid-sparing protocols have shown benefits, but safety has not been established for all populations. We investigated the safety of steroid avoidance (SA) in a population including African-Americans, using modern immunosuppression with protocol biopsy monitoring.

METHODS

A randomized-controlled SA trial (early discontinuation, days 2-7) was conducted in a population (n = 77) including African-Americans and cadaveric kidney recipients. Patients received basiliximab, cyclosporine (CsA), and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). In controls, steroids were tapered to 5 mg prednisone/d by day 30. Protocol biopsies were performed (1, 6, 12 and 24 months) to evaluate subclinical acute rejection (SCAR) and chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN).

RESULTS

The SA did not result in significantly higher incidences of graft loss, AR, SCAR, CAN, or renal fibrosis. SA patients experienced similar renal function, comparable serum lipid levels, and a trend toward fewer cases of new-onset diabetes. Clinical outcomes of African-American and non-African-American patients did not significantly differ.

CONCLUSIONS

The SA is safe in the context of basiliximab induction and CsA-based immunosuppression. This protocol could minimize steroid-related side effects in susceptible groups, including African-Americans, without increasing the risk of AR or graft failure.

Review of the immunosuppressant enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium

Enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (EC-MPS; myfortic, Novartis Pharma AG) is an advanced formulation delivering mycophenolic acid (MPA). EC-MPS was designed to improve MPA-related upper gastrointestinal adverse events by delaying the release of MPA until reaching the small intestine. At a dose of 720 mg, EC-MPS exhibits equivalent MPA exposure (area under the concentration curve [AUC]) and maximal MPA concentration (C(max)) to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF; CellCept, Roche AG) 1000 mg. The time to maximal MPA concentration (T(max)) for EC-MPS is delayed relative to that for MMF, consistent with a functioning enteric coating. EC-MPS 720 mg b.i.d. has demonstrated therapeutic equivalence to MMF 1000 mg b.i.d. in renal transplant patients. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that EC-MPS is as effective and safe as MMF in both de novo and maintenance renal transplant patients. Furthermore, studies have confirmed that maintenance patients can be safely converted from MMF to EC-MPS with no compromise of efficacy or safety. EC-MPS therefore presents physicians and patients with a valid alternative MPA therapy with a comparable efficacy and safety profile to MMF.

Long-term immunosuppression, without maintenance prednisone, after kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

Concern exists that prednisone-free maintenance immunosuppression in kidney transplant recipients will increase acute and/or chronic rejection.

METHODS

From October 1, 1999, through February 29, 2004, at our center, 477 kidney transplant recipients (341 living donor, 136 cadaver) discontinued prednisone on postoperative day 6, per our protocol. Immunosuppression consisted of polyclonal antibody (Thymoglobulin) for 5 days, prednisone intraoperatively and for 5 days, a calcineurin inhibitor, and either sirolimus or mycophenolate mofetil. We compared outcome with that of historical controls who did not discontinue prednisone.

RESULTS

The recipients on prednisone-free maintenance immunosuppression had excellent 4-year actuarial patient survival (92%), graft survival (90%), acute rejection-free graft survival (86%), and chronic rejection-free graft survival (95%). The mean serum creatinine level (+/- SD) at 1 year was 1.6 +/- 0.6; at 4 years, 1.6 +/- 0.6. We noted that 8% of recipients had cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease; 4.5%, fractures; 2.8%, cataracts; 1%, posttransplant diabetes; 0.2%, avascular necrosis; 0.2%, posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease; and 0%, polyomavirus. In all, 85% of kidney recipients with functioning grafts remain prednisone-free as of April 1, 2004. As compared with historical controls, the recipients on prednisone-free maintenance immunosuppression had better patient (P = 0.02) and graft survival (P < 0.0001) and lower rates of acute (P = 0.0004) and chronic (P = 0.02) rejection. In addition, they had a significantly lower rate of CMV disease (P < 0.0001), cataracts (P < 0.0001), posttransplant diabetes (P < 0.0001), and avascular necrosis (P = 0.0003).

CONCLUSIONS

Prednisone-related side effects can be minimized without maintenance immunosuppression; our prednisone-free recipients do not have increased acute or chronic rejection.

Withdrawal of steroid therapy in African American kidney transplant recipients receiving sirolimus and tacrolimus

BACKGROUND

Withdrawal of corticosteroids from the immunosuppressive regimens of kidney transplant recipients has been associated with an increased risk of acute and chronic allograft rejection. Previous studies indicate that the risk of rejection is particularly high in African Americans.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 44 African American kidney transplant recipients to participate in an uncontrolled trial in which they were initially treated with sirolimus, tacrolimus, and corticosteroids. No patient received antibody induction therapy. Prednisone was withdrawn from eligible patients free of acute rejection beginning as early as 3 months posttransplant, and followed for a minimum of 9 months posttransplant. Patients were followed for acute rejection and for changes in blood pressure, body weight, and serum creatinine concentrations before and after withdrawal of steroids.

RESULTS

Thirty of 44 patients (68%) were weaned off of prednisone. Follow-up after withdrawal of prednisone ranged from 3 to 26 months (mean, 14.3+/-7.7 months). Two of 30 patients (6.7%) developed acute rejection. At last follow-up, 27 of 30 patients (90%) remain steroid-free. Steroid withdrawal was associated with significant reductions in blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of sirolimus and tacrolimus, without the use of induction antibody therapy, allows withdrawal of prednisone as early as 3 months posttransplant with low rates of subsequent acute rejection in African American kidney transplant recipients. Withdrawal of prednisone was associated with lower blood pressures and the need for fewer antihypertensive medications.

Use of sirolimus to facilitate cyclosporine avoidance or steroid withdrawal in kidney transplant recipients

Sirolimus is a non-nephrotoxic cell-cycle progression antagonist that has proven to be highly effective in preventing renal allograft rejection when used in combination with cyclosporine and corticosteroids. On the basis of its immunosuppressive potency alone, sirolimus has emerged as an agent with the potential for facilitating the elimination of calcineurin inhibitors or corticosteroids from the maintenance regimens administered to kidney transplant recipients. The results of three randomized trials suggest that use of sirolimus as a substitute for cyclosporine in patients receiving steroids and either azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil results in comparable rates of acute rejection and better renal function than in patients maintained on cyclosporine. Preliminary results from uncontrolled trials indicate that use of sirolimus in combination with either cyclosporine or tacrolimus allows withdrawal of steroid therapy with low rates of subsequent acute rejection compared to historical controls. Larger, controlled studies with longer durations of follow-up are warranted to verify the favorable results of these early experiences with the use of sirolimus as a calcineurin inhibitor or steroid-sparing agent.

Renal transplant recipient attitudes toward steroid use and steroid withdrawal

Although steroid avoidance and withdrawal in renal transplant recipients (RTR) are actively being evaluated by physicians, the attitudes of recipients toward steroid use have not been systematically studied in the modern era. We conducted a confidential written survey of single-organ adult RTR pertaining to prednisone-related side-effects. Recipients were asked which drug they felt maximized graft life, which drug they wished to avoid if graft life was unaffected, and which drug they had most compliant with. They also rated 16 common immunosuppressive-related side-effects on a Likert scale with 1 meaning complete disagreement and 10 complete agreement with their own prednisone-attributed experience. A comparison of responses based on RTR demographic characteristics was made by ANOVA or chi-square analysis with Bonferroni correction. The questionnaire was completed by 223 recipients, of whom 93% were primary recipients, 57% were cadaveric organ recipients, and 69% were white people, 7% black people, and 23% Asian people. Age at transplant, age at survey and time since transplant were 41.5 +/- 11, 47.5 +/- 11 and 6.0 +/- 5 yr, respectively. For the entire group, overall side-effect profile for prednisone was rated as 6.1 +/- 3 on the Likert scale, while efficacy was rated as 7.3 +/- 3. If offered monotherapy, 67% preferred a calcineurin-inhibitor (CI), 23% mycophenolate mofetil (MMF)/azathioprine (AZA), and 10% prednisone. When asked which drug they would like to discontinue, 19% chose CI, 16% MMF/AZA, and 65% prednisone. Most recipients felt that CI was the most efficacious drug (80%), followed by MMF/AZA (12%), and prednisone (8%). The side-effects reported as most common were unacceptable weight gain (5.8 +/- 3) and bone/joint disease (5.3 +/- 3). The least common side-effects were blood disorders (2.2 +/- 2) and cancer (2.3 +/- 2). Black people were more likely than non-black people to report developing diabetes (p = 0.02), blood disorders (p = 0.003) and headaches (p = 0.003) as a result of prednisone use. Males reported more liver damage (p = 0.01) while females reported more body fat (p = 0.01) and fluid retention (p = 0.006). RTR >5 yr post-transplant reported more infections (p = 0.008), skin/hair problems (p = 0.02), gastrointestinal irritation (p = 0.02), and bone disease (p = 0.02) compared with RTR <1 yr. Donor source and recipient age did not determine any responses. If given a 'risk-free' choice, the majority of recipients prefer withdrawal of steroids over other agents. Demographic data may be used to predict prednisone-related side-effects and guide steroid use in this population. Study designs related to steroid withdrawal should account for patient preferences in this context.