1
|
Khalil MAM, Khalil MAU, Khan TFT, Tan J. Drug-Induced Hematological Cytopenia in Kidney Transplantation and the Challenges It Poses for Kidney Transplant Physicians. J Transplant 2018; 2018:9429265. [PMID: 30155279 PMCID: PMC6093016 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9429265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug-induced hematological cytopenia is common in kidney transplantation. Various cytopenia including leucopenia (neutropenia), thrombocytopenia, and anemia can occur in kidney transplant recipients. Persistent severe leucopenia or neutropenia can lead to opportunistic infections of various etiologies. On the contrary, reducing or stopping immunosuppressive medications in these events can provoke a rejection. Transplant clinicians are often faced with the delicate dilemma of balancing cytopenia and rejection from adjustments of immunosuppressive regimen. Differentials of drug-induced cytopenia are wide. Identification of culprit medication and subsequent modification is also challenging. In this review, we will discuss individual drug implicated in causing cytopenia and correlate it with corresponding literature evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Taqi F. Taufeeq Khan
- King Salman Armed Forces Hospital, Tabuk King Abdul Aziz Rd., Tabuk 47512, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jackson Tan
- RIPAS Hospital, Bandar Seri Begawan BA1710, Brunei Darussalam
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mohty M, Bacigalupo A, Saliba F, Zuckermann A, Morelon E, Lebranchu Y. New directions for rabbit antithymocyte globulin (Thymoglobulin(®)) in solid organ transplants, stem cell transplants and autoimmunity. Drugs 2015; 74:1605-34. [PMID: 25164240 PMCID: PMC4180909 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-014-0277-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the 30 years since the rabbit antithymocyte globulin (rATG) Thymoglobulin® was first licensed, its use in solid organ transplantation and hematology has expanded progressively. Although the evidence base is incomplete, specific roles for rATG in organ transplant recipients using contemporary dosing strategies are now relatively well-identified. The addition of rATG induction to a standard triple or dual regimen reduces acute cellular rejection, and possibly humoral rejection. It is an appropriate first choice in patients with moderate or high immunological risk, and may be used in low-risk patients receiving a calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-sparing regimen from time of transplant, or if early steroid withdrawal is planned. Kidney transplant patients at risk of delayed graft function may also benefit from the use of rATG to facilitate delayed CNI introduction. In hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, rATG has become an important component of conventional myeloablative conditioning regimens, following demonstration of reduced acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease. More recently, a role for rATG has also been established in reduced-intensity conditioning regimens. In autoimmunity, rATG contributes to the treatment of severe aplastic anemia, and has been incorporated in autograft projects for the management of conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and systemic sclerosis. Finally, research is underway for the induction of tolerance exploiting the ability of rATG to induce immunosuppresive cells such as regulatory T-cells. Despite its long history, rATG remains a key component of the immunosuppressive armamentarium, and its complex immunological properties indicate that its use will expand to a wider range of disease conditions in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Mohty
- Department of Hematology and Cellular Therapy, CHU Hôpital Saint Antoine, 184, rue du Faubourg Saint Antoine, 75571, Paris Cedex 12, France,
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cantarovich D, Rostaing L, Kamar N, Ducloux D, Saint-Hillier Y, Mourad G, Garrigue V, Wolf P, Ellero B, Cassuto E, Albano L, Völp A, Soulillou JP. Early corticosteroid avoidance in kidney transplant recipients receiving ATG-F induction: 5-year actual results of a prospective and randomized study. Am J Transplant 2014; 14:2556-64. [PMID: 25243534 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.12866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
One hundred ninety-seven patients received anti-T-lymphocyte globulins Fresenius, mycophenolate mofetil and delayed cyclosporine, and were randomized to ≥6-month corticosteroids (+CS; n=99) or no CS (-CS; n=98). One- and five-year actual graft survival (censored for death) was 93.2% and 86.4% in the +CS group versus 94.9% and 89.8% in the -CS group (5-year follow-up, p=0.487). Freedom from clinical rejection was 86.9% and 81.8% versus 74.5% and 74.5% (p=0.144), respectively, at 1 and 5 years; 5-year freedom from biopsy-proven rejection was 88.9% versus 83.7% (p=0.227). More late first rejections occurred in the +CS group. Significantly lower 5-year graft survival in patients experiencing rejection was observed for +CS (55.6% vs. 92.0%; p=0.005) with 8/18 versus 2/25 graft losses. Renal function at 5 years was stable and comparable (median serum creatinine, 159 vs. 145 µmol/L; creatinine clearance, 53.5 vs. 56.6 mL/min). More +CS patients developed diabetes, dyslipidemia and malignancies. Rejections in -CS patients occurred early after transplantation and did not impair long-term renal function. In patients receiving CS, rejections occurred later and with a higher risk for subsequent graft failure. A similar and not inferior 5-year efficacy profile and a reduced morbidity were observed in CS-free patients compared to patients who received CS for at least 6 months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Cantarovich
- Institut de Transplantation-Urologie-Néphrologie (ITUN), Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bowman LJ, Edwards A, Brennan DC. The role of rabbit antithymocyte globulin in renal transplantation. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2014. [DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2014.946902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
5
|
Gaber AO, Monaco AP, Russell JA, Lebranchu Y, Mohty M. Rabbit antithymocyte globulin (thymoglobulin): 25 years and new frontiers in solid organ transplantation and haematology. Drugs 2010; 70:691-732. [PMID: 20394456 DOI: 10.2165/11315940-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The more than 25 years of clinical experience with rabbit antithymocyte globulin (rATG), specifically Thymoglobulin, has transformed immunosuppression in solid organ transplantation and haematology. The utility of rATG has evolved from the treatment of allograft rejection and graft-versus-host disease to the prevention of various complications that limit the success of solid organ and stem cell transplantation. Today, rATG is being successfully incorporated into novel therapeutic regimens that seek to reduce overall toxicity and improve long-term outcomes. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of rATG in recipients of various types of solid organ allografts, recipients of allogeneic stem cell transplants who are conditioned with both conventional and nonconventional regimens, and patients with aplastic anaemia. Over time, clinicians have learnt how to better balance the benefits and risks associated with rATG. Advances in the understanding of the multifaceted mechanism of action will guide research into new therapeutic areas and future applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Osama Gaber
- Department of Surgery, The Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Antithymocyte Globulin Induction Therapy in Heart Transplantation: Prospective Randomized Study of High vs Standard Dosage. Transplant Proc 2010; 42:3679-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2010.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2009] [Revised: 01/25/2010] [Accepted: 06/18/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
|
7
|
Cantarovich D, Rostaing L, Kamar N, Saint-Hillier Y, Ducloux D, Mourad G, Garrigue V, Wolf P, Ellero B, Cassuto E, Albano L, Soulillou JP. Corticosteroid avoidance in adult kidney transplant recipients under rabbit anti-T-lymphocyte globulin, mycophenolate mofetil and delayed cyclosporine microemulsion introduction. Transpl Int 2010; 23:313-24. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2009.00971.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
|
8
|
Pascual J, Zamora J, Galeano C, Royuela A, Quereda C. Steroid avoidance or withdrawal for kidney transplant recipients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2009:CD005632. [PMID: 19160257 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd005632.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Steroid-sparing strategies have been attempted during the last two decades in order to avoid morbidity in kidney transplant recipients. Previous systematic reviews of steroid withdrawal after kidney transplantation have shown significant increases in acute rejection and an increase in graft failure rates. Steroid avoidance in kidney transplantation is increasingly attempted and the possible benefits or harms have never been a subject of a systematic review. OBJECTIVES To assess the safety and efficacy of steroid withdrawal or avoidance in patients receiving a kidney transplant. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE, references lists and abstracts from international transplantation society scientific meetings. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled studies (RCTs) of steroid avoidance or withdrawal were included providing that one treatment arm consisted in steroid avoidance or withdrawal and intention-to-treat rates of acute rejection and graft failure were clearly established after steroid avoidance or use or withdrawal or continuation. Observational studies were tabulated. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model and results expressed as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). MAIN RESULTS We included 30 RCTs (5949 participants). Steroid-sparing strategies showed no effect on mortality or graft loss including death. Patients on any steroid-sparing strategy showed a higher risk of graft loss excluding death than those with conventional steroid use (RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.52), especially in those not receiving MMF/Myf or everolimus (RR 1.70, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.90). Acute rejection was more frequent with a steroid-sparing strategy (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.40) and more frequent after steroid withdrawal or avoidance when compared with standard steroid treatment when cyclosporin (CsA) was used. Steroid-sparing and withdrawal strategies showed benefits in reducing antihypertensive drug need, serum cholesterol, antihyperlipidaemic drug need, new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) requiring any treatment and cataracts. Steroid avoidance did not alter serum cholesterol, but was associated with less frequent NODAT requiring any treatment. Cardiovascular events were reduced with steroid avoidance. Reduced antihypertensive drug need and serum cholesterol were similar with CsA or tacrolimus (TAC). Reduced antihyperlipidaemic drug need was only evident with TAC, whereas the reduction in NODAT requiring any treatment was only evident with CsA. Infection was lower in steroid-sparing patients using CsA (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.00). NODAT requiring any treatment was less frequent with steroid avoidance than with steroid withdrawal. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review confirms that steroid avoidance and steroid withdrawal strategies in kidney transplantation are not associated with increased mortality or graft loss despite an increase in acute rejection. These immunosuppression strategies may allow safe steroid avoidance or elimination a few days after kidney transplantation if antibody induction treatment is prescribed or after three to six months if such induction is not used.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio Pascual
- Servicio de Nefrologia, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Carretera de Colmenar km 9,100, Madrid, Spain, 28034.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pretransplant donor-specific and non-specific immune parameters associated with early acute rejection. Transplantation 2008; 85:462-70. [PMID: 18301338 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e3181612ead] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New immunosuppression protocols have resulted in decreased rates of biopsy-proven acute rejection; however, it is unclear whether recipients without biopsy-proven acute rejection are still at risk for immune complication and chronic allograft dysfunction. The aim of our studies was to determine whether pretransplant immune parameters were associated with posttransplant early acute rejection, unstable creatinine courses, and poor graft outcome. METHODS Immune parameters, including human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatch, HLA-specific antibodies, global CD4+ cellular response as measured by intracellular adenosine triphosphate (iATP) synthesis, and IFN-gamma precursor frequencies to donor or third-party cells as measured by ELISPOT were determined for a total of 126 kidney recipients treated with a protocol, including rapid discontinuation of prednisone. RESULTS The donor specific pretransplant parameters of HLA class I mismatches (P=0.04) and total HLA mismatches (P=0.04) with the donor as well as the pretransplant HLA-donor specific antibodies (P=0.002) were associated with biopsy-proven acute rejection. Higher pretransplant iATP levels, a donor nonspecific parameter, were found associated with biopsy proven acute rejection (P=0.04). Pretransplant iATP levels were significantly greater for recipients with early unstable creatinine levels (P=0.01). Recipients with a pretransplant iATP value greater than 375 ng/ml were 3.67 times more likely to experience acute rejection (P=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Pretransplant assessment of donor specific and nonspecific immune parameters may identify recipients who can benefit from closer clinical and immunological surveillance to allow for tailored immunsuppression and selective intervention aimed at optimizing both short and long-term graft outcome.
Collapse
|
10
|
Bajjoka I, Hsaiky L, Brown K, Abouljoud M. Preserving renal function in liver transplant recipients with rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin and delayed initiation of calcineurin inhibitors. Liver Transpl 2008; 14:66-72. [PMID: 18161842 DOI: 10.1002/lt.21309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Early renal dysfunction following liver transplantation is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. To evaluate the impact of delayed initiation of calcineurin inhibitor on renal function, we conducted a retrospective study comparing 118 liver transplant recipients who received rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin and delayed initiation of calcineurin inhibitor with 80 liver transplant recipients who received no antibody and early initiation of calcineurin inhibitor (control group). All patients received mycophenolate mofetil and steroids. Delayed calcineurin inhibitor initiation with anti-thymocyte globulin was associated with significant improvement in renal function throughout the first year post-transplant. At 12 months post-transplant, patients treated with this regimen experienced lower serum creatinine (1.4 +/- 0.5 versus 1.7 +/- 0.5 mg/dL, P < 0.001), a higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (57.4 +/- 20.5 versus 43.7 +/- 14.4 mL/min/1.73 m(2), P < 0.001), and less dependence on dialysis (0.8% versus 13%, P < 0.001) in comparison with no antibody and early calcineurin inhibitor initiation. Patient survival and graft survival were similar between groups; however, there was a trend of a lower incidence of early biopsy-proven acute rejection with anti-thymocyte globulin. Overall infection and cytomegalovirus infection were significantly lower in anti-thymocyte globulin-treated patients, and there was no increased incidence of hepatitis C recurrence in comparison with controls. In conclusion, delayed initiation of calcineurin inhibitor with anti-thymocyte globulin in liver transplant recipients is safe and is associated with improvements in renal function and a lower incidence of early acute rejection in comparison with no antibody and early initiation of calcineurin inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iman Bajjoka
- Transplant Institute, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sidhu MS, Nayak KS, Subhramanyam SV, Sankar A. Polyclonal Antibodies in Renal Transplantation—A Relook. Transplant Proc 2007; 39:766-72. [PMID: 17445595 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2007.01.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Polyclonal antibodies have been used in renal transplantation for the past four decades. Increasing knowledge regarding their varied mechanisms of action have confirmed their versatility in clinical practice. They can be used for induction, reversing acute rejections (especially those resistant to steroids), and possibly conferring an element of allotolerance, thereby reducing chronic allograft nephropathy. Their recent usage as IV bolus, single-dose, preoperative infusion as induction therapy in renal transplantation is an attractive and extremely cost-effective strategy, especially in a developing country such as India.
Collapse
|
12
|
Alexander JW, Goodman HR, Cardi M, Austin J, Goel S, Safdar S, Huang S, Munda R, Fidler JP, Buell JF, Hanaway M, Susskind B, Roy-Chaudhury P, Trofe J, Alloway R, Woodle ES. Simultaneous corticosteroid avoidance and calcineurin inhibitor minimization in renal transplantation. Transpl Int 2006; 19:295-302. [PMID: 16573545 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2006.00280.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Wesley Alexander
- Department of Surgery, Transplantation Division, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, OH 45267, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Tanriover B, Chuang P, Fishbach B, Helderman JH, Kizilisik T, Nylander W, Shaffer D, Langone AJ. Polyclonal Antibody-Induced Serum Sickness in Renal Transplant Recipients: Treatment with Therapeutic Plasma Exchange. Transplantation 2005; 80:279-81. [PMID: 16041276 DOI: 10.1097/01.tp.0000165093.13046.b3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Serum sickness is an immune-complex mediated illness that frequently occurs in patients after polyclonal antibody therapy (ATGAM or thymoglobulin). Serum sickness presents with significant morbidity but is self-limited and resolves with prolonged steroid therapy. We present five renal transplant patients who developed serum sickness after polyclonal antibody treatment with severe symptoms that persisted after being started on systemic steroids. These patients underwent one or two courses of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) with subsequent complete resolution of their symptoms. Renal transplant recipients with serum sickness after polyclonal antibody therapy may benefit from TPE by accelerating their time to recovery and thereby reducing overall morbidity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bekir Tanriover
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Beiras-Fernandez A, Chappel D, Thein E, Hammer C. Impact of small variations of ischemia time after polyclonal antithymocyte globulins in a nonhuman primate model ofischemia–reperfusion injury. Transplant Proc 2004; 36:2579-82. [PMID: 15621094 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2004.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Ischemia-reperfusion injury leads to increased leukocyte adherence enhancing acute cellular rejection, causing microvascular dysfunction and tissue damage. The length of the ischemic time is important in clinical transplantation. Polyclonal antithymocyte globulins (pATGs) induce T-cell depletion and functional impairment of nondepleted lymphocytes. In this study cynomolgus monkeys were used to evaluate the impact of three different pATGs on the microcirculation, on leukocyte behavior and infiltration, as well as on tissue damage after two different periods of ischemia (60 and 150 minutes). pATGs were administered 30 minutes before ex vivo reperfusion. Using intravital fluorescence microscopy, the postreperfusion microcirculation was visualized in vivo. Morphologic analyses were performed on biopsies obtained after the experiments. Significant differences were observed between the two periods of ischemia in both the ATG-treated and control groups. Minimizing ischemia time, even in short intervals, improves the outcome of ischemia-reperfusion injury by reducing leukocyte adherence to the antigen-presenting endothelial cells, improving the microcirculation, and reducing tissue damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Beiras-Fernandez
- Institute for Surgical Research, University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Matas AJ, Kandaswamy R, Humar A, Payne WD, Dunn DL, Najarian JS, Gruessner RWG, Gillingham KJ, McHugh LE, Sutherland DER. Long-term immunosuppression, without maintenance prednisone, after kidney transplantation. Ann Surg 2004; 240:510-6; discussion 516-7. [PMID: 15319722 PMCID: PMC1356441 DOI: 10.1097/01.sla.0000137140.79206.d0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur J Matas
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abou-Jaoude MM, Ghantous I, Najm R, Afif C, Almawi WY. Intraoperative anti-thymocyte globulin-fresenius bolus induction therapy in kidney transplantation. Transplant Proc 2003; 35:2729-30. [PMID: 14612095 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2003.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
17
|
Abstract
Up to now one of the major problems for successful organ transplantation has been the reaction of the immune system of the recipient against the donor organ. This could lead to acute and chronic rejection, and in cases of unsuccessful treatment to the loss of the transplant. In organ graft recipients, immunosuppressive agents are used to prevent or treat rejection episodes and to maintain graft function. Although there is an increasing number of immunosuppressive substances, the immunosuppressive therapy currently in use is relatively unspecific and targets many immunological functions. The net state of immunosuppression is a complex function determined by the interaction of a number of factors, the most important of these are the dose, duration and temporal sequence in which immunosuppressive drugs are employed. Any kind of immunosuppressive protocol is thus associated with an increased infection rate. This has an important socioecological impact, because frequent hospitalizations resulting from infectious complications are necessary, having an overall mortality rate of 3.5% within 2 weeks of admission. The most common cause of septicaemia is urinary tract infection. Frequent urinary tract infections are associated with the early onset of chronic rejection, suggesting a pathogenetic relationship between these two features. The occurrence of chronic rejection has led to reduced transplant survival. The prevention of urinary tract infections, or the early diagnosis and accurate treatment of urinary tract infections is important in renal transplant recipients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Schmaldienst
- Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine III, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
|