Obesity is associated with worsening cardiovascular risk factor profiles and proteinuria progression in renal transplant recipients

Management of pediatric obesity as a pathway towards kidney transplantation

Obesity is an increasing problem in pediatrics, leading to cardiovascular, metabolic and psychosocial complications. Additionally, for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), obesity can lead to CKD progression towards end-stage renal disease (ESRD) needing renal-replacement therapy (RRT). It is well-established that the optimal type of RRT for children with ESRD is kidney transplantation, as it provides significantly better life expectancy and quality of life. Unfortunately, pediatric patients with CKD/ESRD and obesity face barriers getting to kidney transplantation and often remain on dialysis for a long time, which negatively impacts their life expectancy and quality of life. One barrier to kidney transplant is that Body Mass Index (BMI) is still considered by most transplant centers as the main criterion for obesity assessment, although more recent evidence suggests that BMI is not the best measure of adiposity. Clearcut evidence is lacking that obesity has a long-term negative impact upon the graft. Another barrier to transplant can be bias on the part of referring providers that can deter or delay referral to an obesity treatment program. Our article describes the barriers that pediatric obese patients with CKD and ESRD face in their way towards kidney transplantation. In addition, our article encourages pediatric nephrologists to early refer their patients with CKD and ESRD who suffer from obesity to a specialized obesity treatment program and/or bariatric surgery. Our article also describes the treatment options for pediatric patients with CKD and ESRD who suffer from obesity in order to make them eligible for a kidney transplant.

Clinical implications of changes in metabolic syndrome status after kidney transplantation: a nationwide prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is prevalent in patients with end-stage kidney disease, and kidney transplantation is expected to modify the metabolic status. However, whether changes in metabolic status at the time of transplantation affect recipient outcomes remains unclear.

METHODS

We analyzed 4187 recipients registered in a nationwide prospective cohort from 2014 to 2020. MetS was defined as the presence of three or more components of the metabolic syndrome. Patients were classified based on the pre- and post-transplant MetS status: MetS-free, MetS-developed, MetS-recovered and MetS-persistent. Study outcomes were occurrence of death-censored graft loss and a composite of cardiovascular events and death.

RESULTS

Among recipients without pre-transplant MetS, 19.6% (419/2135) developed post-transplant MetS, and MetS disappeared in 38.7% (794/2052) of the recipients with pre-transplant MetS. Among the four groups, the MetS-developed group showed the worst graft survival rate, and the MetS-persistent group had a poorer composite event-free survival rate. Compared with the MetS-free group, the MetS-developed group was associated with an increased risk of graft loss [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 2.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17-4.98] and the risk of graft loss increased with increasing numbers of dysfunctional MetS components. MetS-persistent was associated with increased risks of cardiovascular events and death (aHR 2.46; 95% CI 1.12-5.63), but changes in the number of dysfunctional MetS components was not.

CONCLUSION

Kidney transplantation significantly alters the metabolic status. Newly developed MetS after transplantation was associated with an increased risk of graft loss, whereas persistent MetS exposure before and after transplantation was associated with increased risks cardiovascular events and patient survival.

Effects of Body Mass Index Changes In Pediatric Kidney Transplant Patients

BACKGROUND

The negative effects of pretransplant obesity and post-transplant body mass index (BMI) increase on graft survival have been reported in recent years. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of BMI changes on post-transplant graft function, lipid profile, and blood pressure.

METHODS

The study included 133 pediatric patients transplanted between 1994 and 2019 in Ege University. BMI Z-scores (BMIZs) were calculated according to age and sex before and after transplantation using the World Health Organization criteria. Patients with BMIZs >+1 standard deviation (SD) were defined as overweight, and those with BMIZs >+2 SD were defined as obese: Group 1: Obese or overweight before transplantation; Group 2: Thin or normal weight before and 2 years after transplantation; and Group 3: Thin or normal weight before transplantation and obese or overweight 2 years after transplantation.

RESULTS

At the time of transplantation 8% of the patients were overweight, and 1% were obese. Overweight and obesity statistically significantly increased (31.6%) 2 years after renal transplantation (P = .001). Obese and overweight patients have lower high-density lipoprotein levels and were younger at the time of transplantation. Graft functions, lipid levels, and blood glucose levels of the groups were similar (P > .05). The only significant difference between the groups was that Group 1 patients were younger than Group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity develops at a significant rate in pediatric patients after renal transplantation. In this study, we could not demonstrate negative effects of obesity and being overweight in terms of post-transplant graft function, lipid profile, blood glucose, and blood pressure.

Arterial Stiffness as a Cardiovascular Risk Factor After Successful Kidney Transplantation in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients

BACKGROUND

It is known that kidney transplantation (KTx) decreases mortality rate and increases life expectancy about 10 years compared with dialysis, particularly in patients with diabetes. However, cardiovascular disease is still the most common cause of death after transplantation.

PURPOSE

The evaluation of the cardiovascular risk after successful KTx in diabetic and nondiabetic patients.

METHODS

We enrolled 344 patients after KTx (mean age 52.7 years, M -62.5%). The cohort was divided into 2 groups diabetes (+) and diabetes (-). Arterial stiffness parameters (brachial-ankle and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, pulse pressure, pulsatile stress was assessed by an automated oscillometric device. All body composition parameters were evaluated based on bioelectrical impedance analysis and laboratory parameters were obtained from medical files of the patients.

RESULTS

Arterial stiffness parameters were higher in the diabetes (+) compared with diabetes (-) group, significantly. Body mass index was significantly higher in the diabetes (+) group, as well as body fat mass and visceral fat area. In the diabetes (+) group compared with the diabetes (-) group, whole-body phase angle was lower (4.54 vs 4.90 P = .006). Visceral fat area and whole-body phase angle correlated significantly with arterial stiffness parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluation of arterial stiffness and phase angle is a useful method for identifying patients at high cardiovascular risk. Therefore, we suggest that patients with diabetes after successful KTx due to the baseline high cardiolovascular risk, should be regularly assessed to monitor changes in blood vessels, body composition and undergo dietary intervention.

Cardiovascular Risk after Kidney Transplantation: Causes and Current Approaches to a Relevant Burden

Background. Cardiovascular disease is a frequent complication after kidney transplantation and represents the leading cause of mortality in this population. Material and Methods. We searched for the relevant articles in the National Institutes of Health library of medicine, transplant, cardiologic and nephrological journals. Results. The pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease in kidney transplant is multifactorial. Apart from non-modifiable risk factors, such as age, gender, genetic predisposition and ethnicity, several traditional and non-traditional modifiable risk factors contribute to its development. Traditional factors, such as diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia, may be present before and may worsen after transplantation. Immunosuppressants and impaired graft function may strongly influence the exacerbation of these comorbidities. However, in the last years, several studies showed that many other cardiovascular risk factors may be involved in kidney transplantation, including hyperuricemia, inflammation, low klotho and elevated Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 levels, deficient levels of vitamin D, vascular calcifications, anemia and poor physical activity and quality of life. Conclusions. The timely and effective treatment of time-honored and recently discovered modifiable risk factors represent the basis of the prevention of cardiovascular complications in kidney transplantation. Reduction of cardiovascular risk can improve the life expectancy, the quality of life and the allograft function and survival.

Weight gain after renal transplant: Incidence, risk factors, and outcomes

Background

Renal transplantation is the definitive treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It is associated with better quality of life and patient survival. Nevertheless, these benefits come with rising concerns about weight gain and metabolic abnormalities, which adversely impact transplant outcomes.

Objective

The objective of this study is to estimate the incidence of weight gain in the first year post-renal transplant in addition to the assessment of potential risk factors and the resulting outcome of the graft.

Methods

We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of all 295 patients who underwent kidney transplantation at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) between January 2016 and December 2019. Clinical and laboratory variables were collected from electronic records. Continuous variables were reported as mean ± standard deviation. Comparison between groups was assessed by unpaired t-test or Mann-Whitney U test while follow-up data were compared using paired t-test and repeated measures ANOVA. Association between the potential risk factors and the weight gain was assessed by means of binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

Significant weight gain was observed in 161 (54.6%) patients. Females were 119 (40.30%) of the cohort. The mean age was 45.3±15.1 years. The prevalence of diabetes was 234 (79.6%), while hypertensives constituted 77 (26.3%). The comparison between patients who gained weight significantly and patients with stable weight showed a numerical higher prevalence of female gender in patients who had more weight gain (44.1% vs. 35.8%), higher diabetes, higher rate of a living donor, and statistically significant lower dialysis duration before transplant. Other clinical and laboratory variables were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusion

Our study showed a high incidence of clinically significant weight gain among patients post-renal transplantation. Patients with lower dialysis duration, a living kidney donor and those who are obese at baseline were at higher risk of gaining weight. Patients who underwent kidney transplantation should be monitored closely for weight gain and further studies are needed to determine the risk factors and appropriate interventions.

Effect of pre and post-transplant body mass index on pediatric kidney transplant outcomes

Introduction

Kidney transplantation (KT) has been established as an efficient treatment of end stage renal disease (ESRD) with the advantage of allowing the patient to live a nearly healthy life. We aimed to determine whether pre-transplant body mass index (BMI) affects renal allograft function and survival in pediatric KT recipients.

Methods

cross sectional cohort study included 50 post KT recipients (more than 3 years) with an age range of 10 to 15 years, regularly following at the Kidney Transplantation Outpatient Clinic, Cairo University Children’s Hospital, were subjected to a detailed history and physical examination, laboratory investigation in the form of fasting blood glucose (FBG),oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), lipid profile, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and microalbuminuria.

Results

Pre- post- kidney transplant BMI has significant positive correlation with graft rejection episodes, HbA1c, FBG, BMI post-KT, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (p < 0.01). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between the mean difference of BMI (post – pre) and graft survival in years (p = 0.036). Obese patients displayed lower survival compared with non-obese subjects at 5 years, but this was statistically not significant (p-value = 0.165).

Conclusion

obesity is an independent risk factor for graft loss and patient death in kidney transplantation. Careful patient selection with pre-transplantation weight reduction is mandatory to reduce the rate of early post-transplantation complications and to improve long-term outcomes.

Obesity and Post-Transplant Diabetes Mellitus in Kidney Transplantation

Worldwide, the prevalence obesity, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease is increasing apace. The relationship between obesity and chronic kidney disease is multidimensional, especially when diabetes is also considered. The optimal treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease includes the need to consider weight loss as part of the treatment. The exact relationship between obesity and kidney function before and after transplantation is not as clear as previously imagined. Historically, patients with obesity had worse outcomes following kidney transplantation and weight loss before surgery was encouraged. However, recent studies have found less of a correlation between obesity and transplant outcomes. Transplantation itself is also a risk factor for developing diabetes, a condition known as post-transplant diabetes mellitus, and is related to the use of immunosuppressive medications and weight gain following transplantation. Newer classes of anti-diabetic medications, namely SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists, are increasingly being recognized, not only for their ability to control diabetes, but also for their cardio and renoprotective effects. This article reviews the current state of knowledge on the management of obesity and post-transplant diabetes mellitus for kidney transplant patients.

School and sports participation post-transplant

Pediatric recipients of life-saving organ transplants are living longer, with improved graft and overall survivals. After successful transplant, children are encouraged to return to "normal life," with school attendance and participation in age-appropriate physical activities. This transition may cause stress to the recipients, parents, teachers, and other participating caregivers and staff. Planning for school reentry and assuring education for and open lines of communication with the school staff can help alleviate some of this discomfort and ease the process for the patient and the family. Cardiovascular disease has emerged as the leading cause of death in survivors of pediatric transplantation and is contributed to by modifiable risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and the MS. Physical activity is a proven tool in decreasing surrogate markers of this risk. Sports participation is an important way to promote an enjoyment of physical activity that can ideally persist into adulthood, but conflicting advice and opinions exist regarding type and participation in physical activity. Moreover, specific recommendations are likely not applicable to all recipients, as certain degrees of rehabilitation may be needed depending on degree and length of illness. In general, a program of rehabilitation and increased physical activity has been shown to be safe and effective for most pediatric transplant recipients. Focusing on optimizing the "normal" childhood activities of going to school and participating in sports can improve the physical, social, cognitive, and mental health outcomes of this population after transplant and should be prioritized.

Dietary Diversity Score: Implications for Obesity Prevention and Nutrient Adequacy in Renal Transplant Recipients

Obesity affects both medical and surgical outcomes in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Dietary diversity, an important component of a healthy diet, might be a useful nutritional strategy for monitoring patients with obesity. In this cross-sectional study, the data of 85 eligible RTRs were analyzed. Demographic data, routine laboratory data, and 3-day dietary data were collected. Participants were grouped into nonobesity and obesity groups based on body mass index (BMI) (for Asian adults, the cutoff point is 27 kg/m²). Dietary diversity score (DDS) was computed by estimating scores for the six food groups emphasized in the Food Guide. The mean age and BMI of participants were 49.7 ± 12.6 years and 24.0 ± 3.8 kg/m², respectively. In the study population, 20.0% (n = 17) were obese. DDS was significantly lower in obese participants than in those who were not obese (1.53 ± 0.87 vs. 2.13 ± 0.98; p = 0.029). In addition, DDS was correlated with nutrition adequacy of the diet. Multivariate analysis showed that the odds of obesity decreased with each unit increase in DDS (odds ratio, 0.278; 95% confidence interval, 0.101–0.766; p = 0.013). We conclude that patients with higher dietary diversity have a lower prevalence of obesity.

Obesity, Fat Tissue Parameters, and Arterial Stiffness in Renal Transplant Recipients

OBJECTIVE

Arterial stiffness and altered body composition (increased body fat mass [BFM] and decreased lean body mass) are acknowledged risk factors for adverse outcomes after kidney transplantation related to cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the study was the assessment of the relationship between arterial stiffness and fat tissue parameters in renal transplants recipients (RTrs).

METHODS

A group of 344 RTrs with stable disease and a mean age of 52.7 years (62.5% men) who underwent transplantation between 1994 and 2018 were randomly enrolled in the study. The following parameters of arterial stiffness were measured: brachial-ankle and carotid-femoral pulse waves velocities (baPWVs left and right, cfPWVs). The obesity and fat tissue (body mass index [BMI], waist-to-hip ratio [WHR], BFM, fat free mass [FFM], percent body fat [PBF], trunk segmental fat analysis [TSFA], and visceral fat area [VFA]) parameters were assessed with InBody 170.

RESULTS

The median time of dialysis and after kidney transplantation was 58.5 and 78 months, respectively. Obesity according BMI, WHR, and VFA was diagnosed in 49.7%, 45.0%, and 44.5% of patients, respectively. The median value of BFM, FFM, VFA, and TSFA and the mean value of PBF were 19.3 kg, 55 kg, 93.2 cm², 24.9 kg, and 27.3%, respectively. We found significant positive correlations among WHR, VFA, baPWV right, baPWV left, and cfPWV.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity and visceral fat tissue influence on arterial stiffness. The analysis of magnitude of obesity and body fat tissue parameters can be used as an additional cardiovascular risk factor in RTrs.

Changes in body mass index after pediatric renal transplantation

Significant weight gain following renal transplantation is common in adult and pediatric recipients and mostly depends on receiving higher doses of steroids, changes in mood and feelings, as well as their level of physical activities. This study was performed to evaluate body weight and body mass index (BMI) before and after kidney transplantation in children and adolescents. In this cross-sectional study, 71 pediatric renal transplant recipients (42 boys and 29 girls) were included. World Health Organization criteria were used for comparing Z-score BMI for age in our cases. Overweight was defined as Z-score BMI >+1 SD (standard deviation) and obesity as >+2 SD. At the time of transplantation, the mean age was 10.8 ± 3 years (5-16 years) and based on BMIZ-score, the patients were found to be thin (BMIZs <-2 SD) in 16.9%, normal (BMIZs = -2 to +1 SD) in 67.6%, overweight (>+1 SD to +2 SD) in 9.9%, and obese (BMIZs >+2 SD) in 5.6%.The mean follow-up duration after transplantation was 3.57 ± 1.68 years (1-7 years) and at the time of reevaluation after transplant, their mean age was 14.4 years (6-18 years). The mean BMI was 22 ± 5.3 kg/m², and for BMI grouping, the patients were thin in 7%, normal in 54.9%, overweight in 21.1%, and obese in 17%. Pretransplant thinness (BMIZs <-2 SD) was found in 12 patients (16.9%), equally in boys and girls, and in most of them (83.3%), BMIZs changed to normal or even >+1 SD after transplant. Chronic continuous decrease of glomerular filtration rate (CCD/GFR) was found in 27 cases (38%); 74.1% were male (P = 0.045), hypertriglyceridemia was found in 74.1% (P = 0.023%), hypercholesterolemia in 63% (P = 0.032),and obesity in 18.5% (p = 0.5). The incidence of obesity has tripled after kidney transplantation. It was not a risk factor for graft or patient survival in our experience, whereas pretransplant obesity had some effects on long-term graft outcome.

Effects of Combined Resistance Plus Aerobic Training on Body Composition, Muscle Strength, Aerobic Capacity, and Renal Function in Kidney Transplantation Subjects

Lima, PS, de Campos, AS, de Faria Neto, O, Ferreira, TCA, Amorim, CEN, Stone, WJ, Prestes, J, Garcia, AMC, and Urtado, CB. Effects of combined resistance plus aerobic training on body composition, muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and renal function in kidney transplantation subjects. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2019-Immunosuppression and a sedentary lifestyle may exacerbate complications such as early graft dysfunction and muscle loss, and reduce patient survival after kidney transplantation (KT). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in body composition (BC), muscular strength, aerobic, and renal function in KT subjects submitted to combined resistance plus aerobic training. Twelve KT subjects were randomly assigned into groups: (G1) 12 weeks of combined training (3 males and 4 females, 54 ± 3 years); or (G2) nonexercise control (5 females, 43 ± 18 years). The subjects were evaluated for BC (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), estimated V[Combining Dot Above]O2peak, right-hand maximal grip strength (RHMGS) and left-hand maximal grip strength (LHMGS), and renal function. Post-training revealed that G1 reduced body fat percentage (p = 0.046), uric acid (Δ = -0.87; p = 0.023), urea (Δ = -9.43; p = 0.032), and creatinine (Δ = -0.15; p = 0.045), increased fat-free mass, estimated V[Combining Dot Above]O2peak, RHMGS, LHMGS (p < 0.05), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (Δ = 11.64; p = 0.017). G2 increased urea (Δ = 8.20; p = 0.017), creatinine (Δ = 0.37; p = 0.028), and decreased eGFR (Δ = -16.10; p = 0.038). After 12 weeks, urea (Δ = 24.94; p = 0.013), uric acid (Δ = 1.64; p = 0.044), and creatinine (Δ = 0.9; p = 0.011) were lower, whereas eGFR (Δ = 36.51; p = 0.009) was higher in G1. These data indicate that combined training instigates positive changes in BC, muscular strength, aerobic capacity, and renal function after KT.

Cardiovascular risk in renal transplant recipients

Successful kidney transplantation offers patients with end-stage renal disease the greatest likelihood of survival. However, cardiovascular disease poses a major threat to both graft and patient survival in this cohort. Transplant recipients are unique in their accumulation of a wide range of traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia and obesity are highly prevalent in patients with end-stage renal disease. These risk factors persist following transplantation and are often exacerbated by the drugs used for immunosuppression in organ transplantation. Additional transplant-specific factors such as poor graft function and proteinuria are also associated with increased cardiovascular risk. However, these transplant-related factors remain unaccounted for in current cardiovascular risk prediction models, making it challenging to identify transplant recipients with highest risk. With few interventional trials in this area specific to transplant recipients, strategies to reduce cardiovascular risk are largely extrapolated from other populations. Aggressive management of traditional cardiovascular risk factors remains the cornerstone of prevention, though there is also a potential role for selecting immunosuppression regimens to minimise additional cardiovascular injury.

Survival benefit in bariatric surgery kidney recipients may be mediated through effects on kidney graft function and improvement of co-morbidities: A case-control study

BACKGROUND

Data on the benefits of bariatric surgery for morbid obesity among kidney transplant recipients are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of bariatric surgery on graft function and survival and on obesity-related co-morbidities.

SETTING

University hospital.

METHODS

This case-control study used retrospectively collected data of all kidney recipients who underwent bariatric surgery in our institution between November 2011 and August 2016 (n = 30, 11 females). Nonbariatric operated kidney recipients matched for age, sex, and time elapsed since transplantation served as controls (n = 50, 23 females). Main outcomes were renal function, graft loss events, mortality, and obesity-related co-morbidities.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up duration was 2.4 ± 1.3 years for both groups. At final follow-up, there was an increase in estimated glomerular filtration rates for the bariatric surgery group, and a decrease for the controls (13.4 ± 19.9 and -3.9 ± 15.8 mL/min/1.73 m², respectively, P < .001). The chronic kidney disease classification improved in 9 bariatric surgery group patients and in 6 controls (P = .1). Two patients in the bariatric surgery group and 6 controls died. Total death or graft function loss during the follow-up was 6.7% and 16.7%, respectively (P = .3). The total numbers of co-morbidities and medications were lower in the bariatric surgery patients (-.7 and -2, respectively) and higher in the controls (+.3 and +1.1; P < .001) at study closure.

CONCLUSIONS

There was an improvement in renal function, graft survival, and obesity-related co-morbidities among kidney transplant recipients who underwent bariatric surgery compared with those who did not. These findings support bariatric surgery in this population and warrant prospective studies.

The Risk Factors of mTORi-Associated Posttransplant Proteinuria

Treatment with mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) has been associated with an increased incidence of proteinuria after kidney transplantation as compared to other immunosuppressive agents. Proteinuria after mTORi use may occur in different clinical conditions and the precise mechanism remains unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate the related risk factors for proteinuria after mTORi treatment in kidney transplant recipients. This retrospective observational study population consisted of kidney transplant recipients followed up in a medical center in Southern Taiwan from January 1999 to April 2016. The baseline characteristics and transplantation-related profiles were collected at the time of enrollment. We examined risk factors for mTORi-associated proteinuria using a multivariate logistic regression analysis. P < .05 was considered as statistically significant. Hyperlipidemia and obesity at the initiation of mTORi treatment were strong predictors for proteinuria. Earlier identification of these risk factors may assist physicians in deciding the best candidate for mTORi conversion in order to optimize transplantation outcomes.

Effect of kidney transplantation on sleep-disordered breathing in patients with End Stage Renal Disease: a polysomnographic study

BACKGROUND

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is common in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). SDB is associated with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity, interplaying with metabolic derangements in the form of uremia, acidosis, and hypervolemia. Renal transplant has been observed to correct most of these metabolic derangements and to control progression of comorbidities. While SDB is highly prevalent among patients in the pretransplant stage, it remains to be seen whether the beneficial aspects of transplant are extended to improvement in SDB in patients with ESRD.

METHODS

Eighteen patients undergoing thrice-weekly hemodialysis (HD) for ESRD at the transplant clinic of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, underwent detailed clinical, laboratory, and polysomnographic evaluation. The average number of apneas and hypopneas per hour of sleep, ie, Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), was used to define the severity of sleep apnea. All patients underwent polysomnography (PSG) within 24 h of the last HD and after three months of living-donor transplant.

RESULTS

Of 18 patients, there were 14 males and four females. The median age was 28 years (range 19-50 years). They had already spent a median period of six months (range 3-31 months) on HD before inclusion. The prevalence of SDB (AHI ≥ 5/h) was 44.4% (8/18) before transplant, which decreased to 5.6% (1/18) after transplant (p = 0.016). The oxygen desaturation index had a median value of 5.8 events/h (range 0.1-35.4) in the pretransplant stage, which decreased to 0 events/h (range 0-6.6) in the post-transplant stage (p = 0.035).

CONCLUSION

There was a significant improvement in the prevalence and severity of SDB after transplant. Whether improvement in SDB is sustained on a long-term follow-up remains to be seen.

Clinical significance of the presence of anti-human leukocyte antigen-donor specific antibody in kidney transplant recipients with allograft dysfunction

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study investigated the clinical significance of detecting anti-human leukocyte antigen-donor specific antibody (HLA-DSA) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) requiring indication biopsy owing to allograft dysfunction.

METHODS

We analyzed the presence of HLA-DSA in 210 KTRs who took indication biopsy. We divided these cases into two groups, HLA-DSA (+) (n = 52) and HLA-DSA (-) (n = 158) group, and compared the clinical characteristics, pathological findings, and clinical outcomes of the two groups.

RESULTS

The rates of retransplant, pretransplant sensitization, and HLA-mismatch were significantly higher in HLA-DSA (+) group than in HLA-DSA (-) group (p < 0.05 for each comparison). In histologic finding, all types of rejections were more frequent in the former group. Besides, scores of both the T-cell injury markers such as tubulitis, interstitial inf lammation, and vasculitis and antibody-mediated injury markers such as peritubular C4d deposition and microvascular inflammation (glomerulitis plus peritubular capillaritis) were higher in HLA-DSA (+) group (p < 0.05 for each). Notably, allograft outcomes were worse in HLA-DSA (+) group. Further, multivariate analysis showed that presence of HLA-DSA, advanced interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (interstitial fibrosis plus tubular atrophy ≥ 2), and allograft rejection in biopsy were independent risk factors for allograft failure.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed that presence of HLA-DSA in a case of allograft dysfunction adversely influences allograft outcome, and its detection, irrespective of the result of the allograft biopsy, necessitates intensive monitoring and treatment.

Early Weight Gain After Transplantation Can Cause Adverse Effect on Transplant Kidney Function

BACKGROUND

The outcomes of kidney transplant recipients with increased body mass index (BMI) remain controversial. We studied the relationship between changes in BMI and kidney transplant function, especially during the first year after transplantation.

METHODS

We performed an observational cohort study of all kidney transplant recipients at our center from March 2009 to June 2014 to determine whether changes in BMI were associated with kidney transplant function, as measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Recipient BMI and eGFR were calculated pre-transplant and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 postoperative months (POM) after transplantation. The correlation between changes in BMI and eGFR was then evaluated.

RESULTS

Eighty-one patients were studied. There was a strong negative correlation between changes in BMI and eGFR from pre-transplant to POM 1 (correlation coefficient, -0.406; P < .0001) and from POM 1 to POM 3 (r = -0.324, P = .004).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that increased BMI caused a significant decline in renal function as measured by eGFR, especially in the initial 3 months after kidney transplantation.

Survey of Canadian Kidney Transplant Specialists on the Management of Morbid Obesity and the Transplant Waiting List

Background:

Obesity is associated with increased surgical complications and long-term cardiovascular mortality. Studies of access in kidney transplantation have found a bias against obese patients on the wait-listing.

Objective:

To determine the current state of clinical practice for the management of obesity in kidney transplantation.

Design:

A survey in two versions, PDF and traditional paper, composed of categorical questions.

Setting:

A pan-Canadian survey of transplant nephrologists and surgeons.

Methods:

The survey PDF was distributed electronically to the Kidney Group of the Canadian Society of Transplantation. A shorter, hardcopy version was distributed subsequently at a national transplant meeting.

Results:

There were 47 responses, including almost every Canadian adult transplant program. Most (81%) reported the use of a body mass index limit for access to the waiting list. However, only 40% reported a strict enforcement. There were several instances of intra-hospital disagreements regarding the use of a policy, among the centers with multiple responses. The body mass index limit was most commonly 40 kg/m² (62%), followed by 35 kg/m² (36%). Despite the body mass index limit, few centers (30%) reported having a weight management program. The reported experience with bariatric surgery was small, though nearly all replied that they would refer to a bariatric specialist in the future.

Limitations:

This national survey provides a broad assessment of clinical practice. The distinction between an official policy and informal clinical tendencies is difficult. The results cannot be used to support any specific limit or policy.

Conclusions:

This survey found that the body mass index limit for access to the kidney transplant waiting list was common in Canada. Several inconsistencies suggest a lack of official policy. To achieve equity in access, clear guidelines for obesity should be established and enforced. Bariatric surgery has the promise of rapid weight loss. Resource allocation to study obesity in transplant patients will be essential.

Increased alloreactivity and adverse outcomes in obese kidney transplant recipients are limited to those with diabetes mellitus

Previous studies on patient and allograft outcomes of obese kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) remain controversial. To what extent obesity-related comorbidities contribute to adverse outcomes, however, hasn't been addressed. We studied all KTRs from 2005 to 2012. 29 (4%), 317 (48%), 217 (33%), 76 (12%), and 21 KTRs (4%) were identified as underweight, normal-weight, overweight, obese, and morbid obese, respectively. 33 of 97 obese KTRs (34%) had pre-existent diabetes. Samples were collected before transplantation and at +1, +2, +3months posttransplantation. Donor-reactive T-cells were measured using an interferon-γ Elispot assay. Obese KTRs showed an increased incidence pre-existent diabetes (p<0.001), but no differences for hypertension and coronary artery disease (p>0.05). Among obese KTRs, those with pre-existent diabetes showed inferior patient and allograft survival, worse allograft function, delayed graft function, and prolonged hospitalization (p<0.05). Interestingly, no differences were observed between obese non-diabetic, normal-weight diabetic, and normal-weight non-diabetic KTRs (p>0.05). Obese diabetic KTRs showed higher frequencies of donor-reactive T-cells pretransplantation (p<0.05). Our results suggest that the increased risk of mortality, allograft loss, delayed graft function, and prolonged hospitalization in obese KTRs is limited to those with diabetes. A state of obesity-related inflammation plus hyperglycemia may trigger increased alloreactivity and should call for adequate immunosuppression.

Pre-Transplant Cardiovascular Risk Factors Affect Kidney Allograft Survival: A Multi-Center Study in Korea

Background

Pre-transplant cardiovascular (CV) risk factors affect the development of CV events even after successful kidney transplantation (KT). However, the impact of pre-transplant CV risk factors on allograft failure (GF) has not been reported.

Methods and Findings

We analyzed the graft outcomes of 2,902 KT recipients who were enrolled in a multi-center cohort from 1997 to 2012. We calculated the pre-transplant CV risk scores based on the Framingham risk model using age, gender, total cholesterol level, smoking status, and history of hypertension. Vascular disease (a composite of ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease) was noted in 6.5% of the patients. During the median follow-up of 6.4 years, 286 (9.9%) patients had developed GF. In the multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazard model, pre-transplant vascular disease was associated with an increased risk of GF (HR 2.51; 95% CI 1.66–3.80). The HR for GF (comparing the highest with the lowest tertile regarding the pre-transplant CV risk scores) was 1.65 (95% CI 1.22–2.23). In the competing risk model, both pre-transplant vascular disease and CV risk score were independent risk factors for GF. Moreover, the addition of the CV risk score, the pre-transplant vascular disease, or both had a better predictability for GF compared to the traditional GF risk factors.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both vascular disease and pre-transplant CV risk score were independently associated with GF in this multi-center study. Pre-transplant CV risk assessments could be useful in predicting GF in KT recipients.

Obesity and graft dysfunction among kidney transplant recipients: Increased risk for atherosclerosis

Weight gain after kidney transplant is common, and may be related to graft dysfunction and high cardiovascular risk. We investigated the prevalence of obesity and evaluated the relationship between obesity and graft dysfunction in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). All patients who received kidney transplant at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH) between January 2005 and December 2009 were recruited. Information on demographics, clinical characteristics and post-transplant care were documented. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and carotid Doppler ultrasound for the assessment of cardiac status and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), respectively. Inferential and modelling statistics were applied. One hundred KTRs were recruited, of which 63 were males. The mean age was 42.2 ± 12.42 years with a range of 19-70 years. The mean body mass index and waist circumference of the recipients were 26.4 ± 4.81 kg/m² and 90.73 ± 14.76 cm, respectively. Twenty-nine patients (29%) were obese; of these, 24 (82.8%) had moderate obesity, 4 (13.8%) had severe obesity, and 1 (3.4%) had morbid obesity. Graft dysfunction was present in 52%. Obese patients were older (P < 0.0001), had graft dysfunction (P = 0.03), higher mean arterial blood pressure (P = 0.022), total cholesterol (P = 0.019), triglycerides (P < 0.0001), left ventricular mass index (P = 0.035) and cIMT (P = 0.036). Logistic regression showed obesity to be independently associated with graft dysfunction (P = 0.033). Obesity after kidney transplantation is common and is associated with graft dysfunction and markers of atherosclerosis.

The impact and treatment of obesity in kidney transplant candidates and recipients

The prevalence of obesity in patients with chronic kidney failure and renal transplant candidates has paralleled the epidemic in the general population. The associated risks of surgical complications and long-term cardiovascular death are significant: most transplant centers consider obesity a relative contra-indication for transplant.

Few studies have focused on conservative weight loss strategies in transplant patients. Studies using administrative databases have found that only a minority of wait-listed patients lose weight and with no apparent benefit to transplant outcomes. The only clinical trial in this area found that an intensive weight-loss program had significantly better success (to listing) than self-directed weight loss. However, only a minority that succeeded with the help of a program (36 %), while the “diet and exercise” group had negligible results.

Laparoscopy has radically shortened the recovery time and decreased the complications associated with bariatric surgery. Reports in transplant patients, who were previously deemed too medically complex, have demonstrated a dramatic and rapid weight loss. The only randomized clinical trial in patients with CKD, which compared sleeve gastrectomy to best medical care clearly favoured the surgical arm for weight loss, but was too small to assess other outcomes. The emerging experience is small but quite promising.

Surgical complications and the effect on immunosuppression remain the chief concerns regarding the use of bariatric surgery in transplant patients. Rigorous prospective studies will be essential to properly evaluate the expected weight loss and the effect on pharmacokinetics of immunosuppressive medications. A routine role for bariatric surgery in transplantation would require evidence of improvements in patient-important outcomes and evidence of safety.

Relationships Between Metabolic Syndrome, Microalbuminuria, and C-Reactive Protein in Turkish Kidney Transplant Recipients

AIM

The aims of this study were to report the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in a cohort of Turkish kidney transplant recipients and to define the relationships between MS, microalbuminuria and C-reactive protein (CRP), which are cardiovascular risk factors, in kidney transplant setting.

METHODS

This cross sectional study included 170 adult renal transplantation recipients with a mean follow-up of 53.1 ± 49.9 months. The diagnosis of MS was made according to the National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III) criteria. Microalbuminuria was defined as a urinary albumin/creatinine ratio of 30-300 mg/g. CRP levels ≥6.0 were classified as high CRP.

RESULTS

Mean age was 39.3 ± 11 years. The prevalence of MS was 45.8% (n = 78). The prevalence of microalbuminuria was not different in patients with MS compared to those without MS (39.7% vs 37%, P = .428). In multivariate logistic regression analyses, systolic blood pressure (SBP) (odds ratio 1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12-2.52; P = .011) and high fasting glucose (odds ratio 2.82; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16-6.86; P = .022) were significantly associated with microalbuminuria. When patients with MS and high CRP were compared with patients with normal CRP and without MS, microalbuminuria did not differ between the groups (P = .213).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of MS in our kidney recipient cohort was found to be increased compared to general population. MS was not related to increased prevalence of microalbuminuria, even when combined with high CRP. Microalbuminuria was associated with elevated SBP and hyperglycemic status.

[Is obesity a barrier to kidney transplantation?]

INTRODUCTION

Kidney transplantation is the most suitable of ESRD care. The proportion of obese people is increasing in the general population and patients with kidney impairment. It is important to assess the impact of obesity on surgical complications of kidney transplantation. The aim of this retrospective study was to signify the correlation between obesity and the occurrence of postoperative urological complications during the first year.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study from March 1999 to December 2009. We conducted a chart review of patients undergoing kidney transplantation. The kidneys were taken from cadaveric donors. Data collected included age, weight, height, preoperative BMI; causal nephropathy, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, anticoagulation therapy. Intraoperative data included operative time (DO), cold ischemia. Urological complications were recorded during the first year after the kidney transplantation (vascular anastomotic strictures, ureterovesical stenosis, lymphorrheas, pyelonephritis, hematoma, wound infection). Statistical analysis consisted of a t-test for independent samples and univariate and multivariate logistic regression for the occurrence of complications.

RESULTS

Four hundred and twenty-two patients were transplanted in total. We excluded 20 patients. BMI and duration of surgery patients with complications were significantly different from those of patients with no complications (P=0.016 and P=0.039, respectively). Obese (n=48) had more diabetes (12.5% versus 3.7%, P=0.014), were more often smoking (35.4% versus 22%, P=0.012), had a longer DO (203.64minutes versus 182.46minutes, P=0.006), and complications (62.5% versus 50.28%, P=0.03) than patients with a BMI <30 (n=354). After adjusting for age, smoking, DO, diabetes and BMI showed that only BMI was an independent predictor of the occurrence of postoperative complications with P=0.048 and RR=1.058 [CI: 1 to 1.119]. However, there was no more transplantectomy obese (P=0.911).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that there is a significant risk of surgical complications after kidney transplantation in obese patients. But ultimately, this does not affect graft survival because there are no more transplantectomies or return to dialysis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Metabolic syndrome in children with chronic kidney disease and after renal transplantation

Visceral obesity and metabolic abnormalities typical for metabolic syndrome (MS) are the new epidemic in adolescence. MS is not only the risk factor for cardiovascular disease but also for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Thus, there are some reasons to recognize MS as a new challenge for pediatric nephrologists. First, hypertensive and diabetic nephropathy, the main causes of CKD in adults, both share the same pathophysiological abnormalities associated with visceral obesity and insulin resistance and have their origins in childhood. Secondly, as the obesity epidemic also affects children with CKD, MS emerges as the risk factor for progression of CKD. Thirdly, metabolic abnormalities typical for MS may pose additional risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in children with CKD. Finally, although the renal transplantation reverses uremic abnormalities it is associated with an exposure to new metabolic risk factors typical for MS and MS has been found to be the risk factor for graft loss and cardiovascular morbidity after renal transplantation. MS is the result of imbalance between dietary energy intake and expenditure inducing disproportionate fat accumulation. Thus, the best prevention and treatment of MS is physical activity and maintenance of proper relationship between lean and fat mass.

Obesity, metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus after renal transplantation: prevention and treatment

The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in dialysis patients is high and further increases after transplantation due to weight gain and the detrimental metabolic effects of immunosuppressive drugs. Corticosteroids cause insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, abnormal glucose metabolism and arterial hypertension. The calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus is diabetogenic by inhibiting insulin secretion, whereas cyclosporine causes hypertension and increases cholesterol levels. Mtor antagonists are responsible for hyperlipidemia and abnormal glucose metabolism by mechanisms that also implicate insulin resistance. The metabolic syndrome in transplant recipients has numerous detrimental effects such as increasing the risk of new onset diabetes, cardiovascular disease events and patient death. In addition, it has also been linked with accelerated loss of graft function, proteinuria and ultimately graft loss. Prevention and management of the metabolic syndrome are based on increasing physical activity, promotion of weight loss and control of cardiovascular risk factors. Bariatric surgery before or after renal transplantation in patients with body mass index >35 kg/m(2) is an option but its long term effects on graft and patient survival have not been investigated. Steroid withdrawal and replacement of tacrolimus with cyclosporine facilitate control of diabetes, whereas replacement of cyclosporine and mtor antagonists can improve hyperlipidemia. The new costimulation inhibitor belatacept has potent immunosuppressive properties without metabolic adverse effects and will be an important component of immunosuppressive regimens with better metabolic risk profile. Medical treatment of cardiovascular risk factors has to take potential drug interactions with immunosuppressive medication and drug accumulation due to renal insufficiency into account.

Obesity in kidney transplantation

Kidney transplantation is the preferred modality of renal replacement therapy. Long-term patient and graft survival have only improved marginally over the recent decade, mainly because of the development of cardiovascular disease after transplantation. Obesity is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is common before and after transplantation. This article reviews the literature assessing the role of pre- and post-transplant obesity on patient and graft survival, discusses the underlying obesity-related mechanisms leading to inferior kidney transplant outcomes, and explores the role of nutritional intervention on improving long-term outcomes of transplantation. Although the role of pretransplant obesity remains uncertain, post-transplant obesity increases the risk of graft failure and mortality. Nutritional intervention is effective in achieving post-transplant weight loss, but the effect on long-term outcomes has not been established. Future research should focus on conducting nutritional intervention studies aiming to improve long-term outcomes of kidney transplantation.

Adiposity and cardiovascular disease risk factors in renal transplant recipients: Are there differences between sexes?

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate high body adiposity and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors prevalence, in renal transplant recipients (RTR), comparing men with women.

METHODS

In this retrospective cross-sectional study, 102 patients (55 men) who were 49 ± 1.2 y and 114.3 ± 9 mo post-transplant (post-tx) were evaluated. Pretransplant (pre-tx) period data and weight gain during the first year post-tx were obtained from patient charts and post-tx data were collected during a routine visit at nephrology clinic. Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m(2) defined overweight and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2) defined obesity.

RESULTS

Pre-tx overweight prevalence was low and similar between men and women (26%), whereas only women showed obesity (11%). Post-tx body weight increased significantly in the entire group, leading to an increase in overweight (to 38% in men and 51% in women) and obesity (to 11% in men and 23% in women) prevalence. Post-tx comparisons between men and women showed that women had higher (women versus men; P < 0.05) BMI values (26.7 ± 0.8 versus 24.7 ± 0.5 kg/m(2)), weight gain during first year post-tx (9.2 ± 1.1 versus 5.5 ± 1 kg), abdominal obesity (57% versus 23%) and diabetes (34% versus 16%) prevalence. The associations between adiposity and CVD risk factors showed that pre-tx overweight increased the risk for diabetes in post-tx; pos-tx high BMI and abdominal obesity increased the risk for metabolic syndrome; abdominal obesity increased the risk for dyslipidemia in women.

CONCLUSIONS

High body adiposity prevalence was high after transplantation and increased the risk for metabolic syndrome, an important CVD risk factor. Women showed higher total body adiposity values, abdominal obesity, and diabetes prevalence than men. Abdominal obesity increased the risk for dyslipidemia in women.

Obesity and kidney transplantation

Obesity confers increased risk for graft loss and death among renal transplant recipients. However the relationship of changes in body weight and composition to outcome on the transplant waitlist and post-transplantation is not straightforward. Strategies to manage weight in the waitlisted patient and after kidney transplantation must be performed in the context of a multidisciplinary approach and individualized based on risk factors in particular patients. Although retrospective studies offer considerable insights into the relationship between obesity and kidney transplant outcome, causal inferences must be made with great caution.

Evaluation of nutrient intake in early post kidney transplant recipients

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the dietary intake of kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) and assess oral intake related nutrition problems. Fifty patients who had undergone kidney transplantation were included: 24 males, 26 females. The mean age was 46.8 ± 11.2 years, height was 161.3 ± 8.3 cm, and body weight was 60.5 ± 8.7 kg. We conducted nutrition education based on the diet guideline for KTRs (energy 32 kcal/kg of ideal body weight [IBW], protein 1.3 g/kg of IBW) and neutropenic diet guideline before discharge. Dietary intake of the patients at 1 month after transplantation was investigated by 3-day food records. Body weight and laboratory values for nutritional status and graft function were also collected. Body weight was significantly decreased from admission to discharge. Body weight from discharge to 1 month and 3 months after transplantation was increased but was not significant. Biochemical measurements were generally improved but the number of patients with hypophosphatemia increased. The daily dietary intake of energy and protein was adequate (33.1 kcal/kg, 1.5 g/kg, respectively). However, the dietary intake of calcium, folate, and vitamin C did not meet the Korean Recommended Nutrient Intake of vitamins and minerals (86.8%, 62.4%, and 88.0%, respectively). Patients with low intake of calcium, folate, and vitamin C presented low intake in milk and dairy products, vegetables, and fruits, and these foods were related to restricted food items in neutropenic diet. More attention should be paid on improving quality of diet, and reconsideration of present neutropenic diet guideline is necessary. These results can be used to establish evidence-based medical nutrition therapy guideline for KTRs.

Association of inflammatory biomarkers with metabolic syndrome in hemodialysis patients

The relative importance of inflammatory markers in relation with metabolic syndrome (MeS) in hemodialysis (HD) patients is uncertain. This study investigated the association between MeS and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), hallmark of inflammation, and other inflammatory-related biomarkers. The study included 153 patients who were dialyzed at least for the last 3 months. The serum level of hsCRP was assessed by high-sensitive Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). MeS was defined using the modified National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP-III). Ninety-one HD patients (59.5%) were diagnosed as having MeS. Lower level of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) was the most prevalent MeS component (85.6%). The serum level of hsCRP in these patients was significantly higher than that in HD patients without MeS (2.3 ± 1.7 vs. 1.7 ± 1.6 mg/dL, p = 0.03). A significant linear increase in the hsCRP levels was found according to the number of MeS components (β = 0.09, p = 0.022). The study concluded that increasing inflammatory biomarkers, especially hsCRP, is associated with MeS in HD patients.

Pancreas transplantation after bariatric surgery

Obese transplant candidates are at increased risk for perioperative and postoperative complications. In many transplant programs, morbid obesity is considered to be an exclusion criterion for transplantation. The only potential option that would grant these patients access to transplant is weight loss. Non-operative weight loss strategies such as behavioral modifications, exercise, diet, or medication have only very limited success in achieving long-term weight loss. In contrast, bariatric surgery was shown to achieve not only more excessive weight loss, but more importantly, this weight loss can be sustained for longer periods of time. Therefore, bariatric surgery presents an attractive option for weight loss for morbidly obese transplant candidates. We report our experience with four patients who underwent bariatric surgery prior to successful pancreas transplantation. Even though gastric bypass and laparoscopic adjustable gastric band present as equivalent alternatives for weight reduction, we believe that in the population of morbidly obese diabetic patients who are possible candidates for pancreas transplantation, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band placement is the more suitable procedure.

Effect of obesity on the outcome of kidney transplantation: a 20-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease is both a major threat to the life expectancy of kidney transplant recipients and an important determinant of late allograft loss. Obesity is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

We investigated the relation between both pretransplant and 1-year posttransplant body mass index (BMI) with patient and renal graft survival in a cohort of 1810 adult patients. Sixty-one percent of all patients were men; median age (interquartile range [IQR]) was 46 years (35-56 years); median (IQR) pretransplant BMI was 23.0 kg/m (20.8-25.6 kg/m); 1 year after transplantation, the median (IQR) BMI had increased 1.6 kg/m (0.3-3.2 kg/m) and median (IQR) follow-up time was 8.3 years (5.3-12.0 years). We categorized BMI as follows: less than or equal to 20, more than 20 to less than or equal to 25 (normal), more than 25 to less than or equal to 30, and more than 30 (obesity) kg/m.

RESULTS

Using a Cox proportional hazards model, after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, the relative risks (95% confidence intervals) of death and death-censored graft failure during all follow-up for pretransplant obesity compared with normal BMI were 1.22 (0.86-1.74) and 1.34 (1.02-1.77), respectively; for obesity 1 year after transplantation compared with normal BMI, it was 1.39 (1.05-1.86) and 1.39 (1.10-1.74), respectively; and for change in BMI (per 5 kg/m increment) during the first year after transplantation, it was 1.23 (1.01-1.50) and 1.18 (1.01-1.38), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

One year posttransplant BMI and BMI increment are more strongly related to death and graft failure than pretransplant BMI among kidney transplant recipients. Patients with BMI more than 30 kg/m compared with a normal BMI have approximately 20% to 40% higher risk for death and graft failure.

Risk factors for metabolic syndrome in stable Italian renal transplant patients

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in renal transplant recipients (RTR) is still under investigation.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study of 107 stable RTR who were diagnosed as having MS defined by the Adult Treatment Panel III of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP-ATP III) criteria. Anthropometric, clinical and biochemical data were collected.

RESULTS

Mean age of the patients studied was 55 ± 11 years (72 male, 35 female), dialysis duration before transplantation 30 ± 31 months, time since transplantation 42 ± 13 months. Mean serum creatinine was 1.68 ± 0.64 mg/dl; creatinine clearance by Cockcroft-Gault formula 53 ± 20 ml/min, glomerular filtration rate by 4-variable MDRD formula 48 ± 18 ml/min/1.73 m(2). Thirty-seven patients (34.5%) had MS. The MS patients had higher weight (76 ± 13 vs. 68 ± 12 kg, p = 0.0033), body mass index (BMI) (26 ± 4 vs. 24 ± 3 kg/m(2), p = 0.0025), waist circumference (101 ± 11 vs. 90 ± 11 cm, p < 0.0001), prevalence of BMI >25 k/m(2) (57 vs. 34%, p = 0.0254), prevalence of diabetes mellitus before transplantation (8 vs. 0%, p = 0.0157), glycaemia (104 ± 31 vs. 87 ± 11 mg/dl, p = 0.0002), and triglyceridaemia (225 ± 105 vs. 112 ± 35 mg/dl, p < 0.0001). They also showed lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (48 ± 15 vs. 68 ± 17 mg/dl, p < 0.0001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that only BMI was independently associated with MS (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06-1.37, p = 0.0037).

CONCLUSIONS

MS according to NCEP-ATP III criteria appears to be present in about one-third of RTR, and even small increases in BMI above 25 kg/m(2) may determine the presence of MS in these patients. Therefore the preventive value of lifestyle modifications is very important for such patients, in order to strictly maintain body fat accumulation within the normal range.

New-onset diabetes after transplantation: risk factors and clinical impact

With improvements in patient and graft survival, increasing attention has been placed on complications that contribute to long-term patient morbidity and mortality. New-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) is a common complication of solid-organ transplantation, and is a strong predictor of graft failure and cardiovascular mortality in the transplant population. Risk factors for NODAT in transplant recipients are similar to those in non-transplant patients, but transplant-specific risk factors such as hepatitis C (HCV) infection, corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors play a dominant role in NODAT pathogenesis. Management of NODAT is similar to type 2 diabetes management in the general population. However, adjusting the immunosuppressant regimen to improve glucose tolerance must be weighed against the risk of allograft rejection. Lifestyle modification is currently the strategy with the least risk and the most benefit.

Association of metabolic syndrome with development of new-onset diabetes after transplantation

BACKGROUND

New-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) is a major posttransplant complication associated with lower allograft and recipient survival. Our objective was to determine whether metabolic syndrome pretransplant is independently associated with NODAT development.

METHODS

We recruited 640 consecutive incident nondiabetic renal transplant recipients from three academic centers between 1999 and 2004. NODAT was defined as the use of hypoglycemic medication, a random plasma glucose level more than 200 mg/dL, or two fasting glucose levels more than or equal to 126 mg/dL beyond 30 days posttransplant.

RESULTS

Metabolic syndrome was common pretransplant (57.2%). NODAT developed in 31.4% of recipients 1 year posttransplant. Participants with metabolic syndrome were more likely to develop NODAT compared with recipients without metabolic syndrome (34.4% vs. 27.4%, P=0.057). Recipients with increasing number of positive metabolic syndrome components were more likely to develop NODAT (metabolic syndrome score prevalence at 1 year: 0 components-0.0%, 1-24.2%, 2-29.3%, 3-31.0%, 4-34.8%, and 5-73.7%, P=0.001). After adjustment for demographics, age by decade (hazard ratio [HR] 1.34 [1.20-1.50], P<0.0001), African American race (HR 1.35 [1.01-1.82], P=0.043), cumulative prednisone dosage (HR 1.18 [1.07-1.30], P=0.001), and metabolic syndrome (HR 1.34 [1.00-1.79], P=0.047) were independent predictors of development of NODAT at 1 year posttransplant. In a multivariable analysis incorporating the individual metabolic syndrome components themselves as covariates, the only pretransplant metabolic syndrome component to remain an independent predictor of NODAT was low high-density lipoprotein (hazard ratio [HR] 1.37 [1.01-1.85], P=0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic syndrome is an independent predictor for NODAT and is a possible target for intervention to prevent NODAT. Future studies to evaluate whether modification of metabolic syndrome factors pretransplant reduces NODAT development are needed.

Kidney transplantation in the morbidly obese: complicated but still better than dialysis

Obese patients are denied renal transplantation in many centers. We report results regarding obesity from a new transplant program (1999 through 2007). Six hundred and forty-two patients were transplanted: 439 patients with BMI < 30 (Group 1), 109 patients with BMI 30.1-34.9 (Group 2), and 89 patients with BMI > 35 (Group 3). Follow-up was at least one yr. Medical and surgical management was performed by the same team throughout the study period. There were no demographic differences between groups except for increased diabetes in Groups 2 and 3. Actuarial graft and patient survivals were not statistically different between groups. Group 3 patients had numerical trends toward more delayed graft function and lower graft survivals but these did not reach statistical significance. Biopsy-proven rejections did not differ between groups. Wound infections were statistically significant in Groups 2 and 3 compared to Group 1 (p < 0.01). Despite increased wound infection rates with increased BMI, transplanting patients with morbid obesity results in better survival for individual patients than dialysis. Thus, there is no a priori ethical reason for treating obese ESRD patients differently from those with other comorbidities.

Primary care of the renal transplant patient

There has been a remarkable rise in the number of kidney transplant recipients (KTR) in the US over the last decade. Increasing use of potent immunosuppressants, which are also potentially diabetogenic and atherogenic, can result in worsening of pre-existing medical conditions as well as development of post-transplant disease. This, coupled with improving long-term survival, is putting tremendous pressure on transplant centers that were not designed to deliver primary care to KTR. Thus, increasing numbers of KTR will present to their primary care physicians (PCP) post-transplant for routine medical care. Similar to native chronic kidney disease patients, KTRs are vulnerable to cardiovascular disease as well as a host of other problems including bone disease, infections and malignancies. Deaths related to complications of cardiovascular disease and malignancies account for 60-65% of long-term mortality among KTRs. Guidelines from the National Kidney Foundation and the European Best Practice Guidelines Expert Group on the management of hypertension, dyslipidemia, smoking, diabetes and bone disease should be incorporated into the long-term care plan of the KTR to improve outcomes. A number of transplant centers do not supply PCPs with protocols and guidelines, making the task of the PCP more difficult. Despite this, PCPs are expected to continue to provide general preventive medicine, vaccinations and management of chronic medical problems. In this narrative review, we examine the common medical problems seen in KTR from the PCP's perspective. Medical management issues related to immunosuppressive medications are also briefly discussed.