Incidence of De Novo Post-Transplant Malignancies in Thai Adult Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center, Population-Controlled, Retrospective Cohort Study at the Highest Volume Kidney Transplant Center in Thailand

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) are at increased risk of developing de novo post-transplant malignancies (PTMs), with regional differences in types with excess risk compared to the general population. A single-center, population-controlled, retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Thailand among all adults who underwent their first kidney transplant from 1986 to 2018. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) of malignancy by age, sex, and place of residence were obtained using data from the National Cancer Registry of Thailand as population control. There were 2,024 KTRs [mean age, 42.4 years (SD 11.4); female patients, 38.6%] during 16,495 person-years at risk. Of these, 125 patients (6.2%) developed 133 de novo PTMs. The SIR for all PTMs was 3.85 (95% CI 3.22, 4.56), and for pooled solid and hematologic PTMs, it was 3.32 (95% CI 2.73, 3.99). Urothelial malignancies had the largest excess risk, especially in women [female SIR 114.7 (95% CI 66.8, 183.6); male SIR 17.5 (95% CI 8.72, 31.2)]. The next two most common cancers were non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and skin cancer [SIR 20.3 (95% CI 13.6, 29.1) and 24.7 (95% CI 15.3-37.8), respectively]. Future studies are needed to identify the risk factors and assess the need for systematic screening among PTMs with excess risk in KTRs.

Years of life lost and long-term outcomes due to glomerular disease in a Southeast Asian Cohort

Death and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) are major outcomes of glomerular disease. (GD) The years of potential life lost (YLL) may provide additional insight into the disease burden beyond death rates. There is limited data on premature mortality in GD. In this retrospective observational cohort study, we evaluated the mortality, ESKD rates, and YLL in Thais with biopsy-proven GD. The mortality and combined outcome rates were determined by log-rank test and ESKD by using a competing risk model. YLL and premature life lost before age 60 were calculated for different GD based on the life expectancy of the Thai population. Patients with GD (n = 949) were followed for 5237 patient years. The death rate and ESKD rates (95%CI) were 4.2 (3.7-4.9) and 3.3 (2.9-3.9) per 100 patient-years, respectively. Paraprotein-related kidney disease had the highest death rate, and diabetic nephropathy had the highest ESKD rate. Despite not having the highest death rate, lupus nephritis (LN) had the highest YLL (41% of all GD) and premature loss of life before age 60. In conclusion, YLL provided a different disease burden assessment compared to mortality rates and identified LN as the major cause of premature death due to GD in a Southeast Asian cohort.

Kidney transplant from donors with hepatitis B: A challenging treatment option

Utilizing kidneys from donors with hepatitis B is one way to alleviate the current organ shortage situation. However, the risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission remains a challenge that undermines the chance of organs being used. This is particularly true with hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive donors despite the comparable long-term outcomes when compared with standard donors. To reduce the risk of HBV transmission, a comprehensive approach is needed. This includes assessment of donor risk, optimal allocation to the proper recipient, appropriate immunosuppressive regimen, optimizing the prophylactic therapy, and post-transplant monitoring. This review provides an overview of current evidence of kidney transplants from donors with HBsAg positivity and outlines the challenge of this treatment. The topics include donor risk assessment by adopting the nucleic acid test coupled with HBV DNA as the HBV screening, optimal recipient selection, importance of hepatitis B immunity, role of nucleos(t)ide analogues, and hepatitis B immunoglobulin. A summary of reported long-term outcomes after kidney transplantation and proposed criteria to utilize kidneys from this group of donors was also defined and discussed.

Distribution pattern of mesangial C4d deposits as predictor of kidney failure in IgA nephropathy

Mesangial C4d deposits have been associated with worse outcomes in Western patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN), but there is limited data in Asians. Previously, a high proportion of stained glomeruli was often required for the classification of C4d positive (C4d+ve). Positive staining in lower proportion of staining would be classified as C4d-ve. This retrospective study evaluated the prognostic value of C4d+ve using a less stringent definition (one C4d+ve glomerulus) in Thai patients with IgAN (n = 120). Baseline findings and outcomes were compared between those with more extensive C4d staining patterns and those with more restricted staining. Clinico-pathologic parameters and risk for kidney outcomes (kidney failure or decline GFR50%) were compared between C4d+ve versus C4d-ve, and between different patterns: Focal (< 50%) versus Diffuse (≥ 50% of glomeruli); or Global (≥ 50) versus Segmental (< 50% of mesangial area). The hazard ratios were estimated using Cox proportional hazard models for Model 1 (Oxford score+ C4d) and Model 2 (Model 1+ clinical factors). C4d+ve (n = 81) had lower eGFR, more global sclerosis, and interstitial fibrosis than C4d-ve at baseline. The 5-year kidney survival for C4d+ve was lower (53.7%) than C4d-ve (89.7%); P = 0.0255. By univariate analysis, T1, T2, C4d+ve, eGFR<60, proteinuria were predictors of kidney outcome. By multivariate analysis, proteinuria, T1, T2 and C4d+ve were independent predictors (Model 2 HR (95% CI) C4d+ve: 3.24 (1.09-9.58), p = 0.034). Segmental had lower eGFR, higher tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and segmental sclerosis compared to Global pattern. Clinicopathological parameters were not different between Focal and Diffuse patterns. Outcomes were similar between staining patterns. In conclusion, C4d staining may be a valuable marker of poor prognosis in Asian patients with IgAN. Less stringent criteria for C4d+ve should be considered as no differences in outcomes were observed between more extensive staining with less extensive patterns. More studies are needed to identify the optimum criteria for C4d+ve.

Perioperative hemoglobin decrement as an independent risk of poor early graft function in kidney transplantation

OBJECTIVE

Perioperative change of hemoglobin concentration (Hb) was associated with acute kidney injury in patients who underwent non-cardiac surgery, but has never been investigated in kidney transplant patients. This study aimed to observe the effects of perioperative Hb change on early graft function in kidney transplant recipients.

RESULTS

A total of 269 kidney transplant patients were enrolled, of whom 98 (36.4%) developed poor early graft function (PEGF), and 171 (63.6%) had immediate graft function. Comparing two groups, patients with PEGF had a greater decremental change of Hb (-1.60 [-2.38,-0.83] vs. -0.70 [-1.35,0.20] g/dL, respectively; p < 0.001). A Hb cut-point of -1.35 g/dL was obtained from ROC analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that perioperative Hb decrement greater than 1.35 g/dL was an independent risk of PEGF (adjusted OR of 2.52, 95% CI 1.11-5.72; p = 0.026). Subgroup analysis revealed deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT; n = 126) (adjusted OR of 2.89, 95% CI 1.11-7.55; p = 0.029), but not living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT; n = 143) (adjusted OR of 1.68, 95% CI 0.23-12.15; p = 0.606), was influenced by the perioperative Hb decrement. In conclusion, this study suggests that decremental change in perioperative Hb greater than 1.35 g/dL may serve as a modifiable factor of PEGF in DDKT.

Effects of Desflurane and Sevoflurane anesthesia on regulatory T cells in patients undergoing living donor kidney transplantation: a randomized intervention trial

BACKGROUND

Volatile anesthetic agents used during surgery have immunomodulatory effects which could affect postoperative outcomes. Recognizing that regulatory T cells (Tregs) plays crucial roles in transplant tolerance and high peripheral blood Tregs associated with stable kidney graft function, knowing which volatile anesthetic agents can induce peripheral blood Tregs increment would have clinical implications. This study aimed to compare effects of desflurane and sevoflurane anesthesia on peripheral blood Tregs induction in patients undergoing living donor kidney transplantation.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, double-blind trial in living donor kidney transplant recipients was conducted at a single center, tertiary-care, academic university hospital in Thailand during August 2015 - June 2017. Sixty-six patients were assessed for eligibility and 40 patients who fulfilled the study requirement were equally randomized and allocated to desflurane versus sevoflurane anesthesia during transplant surgery. The primary outcome included absolute changes of peripheral blood CD4⁺CD25⁺FoxP3⁺Tregs which measured by flow cytometry and expressed as the percentage of the total population of CD4⁺ T lymphocytes at pre-exposure (0-h) and post-exposure (2-h and 24-h) to anesthetic gas. P-value < 0.05 denoted statistical significance.

RESULTS

Demographic data were comparable between groups. No statistical difference of peripheral blood Tregs between desflurane and sevoflurane groups observed at the baseline pre-exposure (3.6 ± 0.4% vs. 3.1 ± 0.4%; p = 0.371) and 2-h post-exposure (3.0 ± 0.3% vs. 3.5 ± 0.4%; p = 0.319). At 24-h post-exposure, peripheral blood Tregs was significantly higher in desflurane group (5.8 ± 0.5% vs. 4.1 ± 0.3%; p = 0.008). Within group analysis showed patients receiving desflurane, but not sevoflurane, had 2.7% increase in peripheral blood Treg over 24-h period (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study provides the clinical trial-based evidence that desflurane induced peripheral blood Tregs increment after 24-h exposure, which could be beneficial in the context of kidney transplantation. Mechanisms of action and clinical advantages of desflurane anesthesia based on Treg immunomodulation should be investigated in the future.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02559297 . Registered 22 September 2015 - retrospectively registered.

The association between trough blood concentration and systemic exposure of tacrolimus: Comparison between once-daily (Advagraf®) and twice-daily (Prograf®) formulation in de novo kidney transplant recipients

Available data of early conversion from twice-daily tacrolimus (TAC-BID) to once-daily tacrolimus (TAC-OD) in de novo kidney transplant (KT) recipients are limited. We conducted a prospective study of early conversion to TAC-OD in de novo KT recipients. Eligible patients were enrolled to receive TAC-BID (Prograf®) and then converted to TAC-OD (Advagraf®) by 1:1 ratio, approximately 14 days after KT (range 9-22). Blood samples were investigated for pharmacokinetic parameters before and 7-14 days after the conversion. Fifteen patients were included and provided AUC_0-24 of 202.9 ± 44.4 ng h/mL for TAC-BID (pre-conversion) and 193.0 ± 63.4 ng h/mL for TAC-OD (post-conversion) (p = 0.41). Mean trough blood concentration (C_min) of TAC-BID and TAC-OD was 6.4 ± 1.4 ng/mL and 4.9 ± 1.6 ng/mL (p = 0.01). Correlation coefficient (r) between C_min and AUC_0-24 of TAC-BID and TAC-OD were 0.620 and 0.875. Additional analysis found that patients with a drop of C_min > 30% had a significant lower AUC_0-24 after conversion. Renal function remains stable. We conclude that early conversion to TAC-OD is safe and well tolerated with an indifferent systemic exposure. However, patients with a drop of C_min > 30% after conversion to TAC-OD will require additional dose adjustment.

Impact of POR and CYP3A5 Polymorphisms on Trough Concentration to Dose Ratio of Tacrolimus in the Early Post-operative Period Following Kidney Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Tacrolimus, a critical dose drug, is widely used in transplantation. Knowing the contribution of genetic factors, which significantly influence tacrolimus variability, is beneficial in the personalization of its starting dose. The significant impact of CYP3A5*3 polymorphisms on tacrolimus exposure has been reported. Conflicting results of the additional influence of POR*28 polymorphisms on tacrolimus pharmacokinetic interindividual variability have been observed among different populations. The objective of this study was to explore the interaction between POR*28 and CYP3A5*3 polymorphisms and their main effects on tacrolimus trough concentration to dose ratios on day 7 after kidney transplantation.

METHODS

Two hundred sixteen adult kidney transplant recipients participated in this retrospective study. All participants received a twice daily tacrolimus regimen. Blood samples and data were collected on day 7 after transplantation. A 2-way analysis of covariance was performed. Tested covariates were age, hemoglobin, serum albumin, and prednisolone dose.

RESULTS

A 2 × 2 analysis of covariance revealed that the interaction between CYP3A5 polymorphisms (CYP3A5 expresser and CYP3A5 nonexpresser) and POR polymorphisms (POR*28 carrier and POR*28 noncarrier) was not significant (F(1, 209) = 2.473, P = 0.117, (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.012). The predicted main effect of CYP3A5 and POR polymorphisms was significant (F(1, 209) = 105.565, P < 0.001, (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.336 and F(1, 209) = 4.007, P = 0.047, (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.019, respectively). Hemoglobin, age, and steroid dose influenced log C0/dose of tacrolimus (F(1, 209) = 20.612, P < 0.001, (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.090; F(1, 209) = 14.360, P < 0.001, (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.064; and F(1, 209) = 5.512, P = 0.020, (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.026, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

After adjusting for the influences of hemoglobin, age, and prednisolone dose, significant impacts of the CYP3A5 and POR polymorphisms on tacrolimus exposure were found. The effect of POR*28 and CYP3A5*3 polymorphisms during the very early period after kidney transplantation is independent of each other.

Comparison of disease activity between tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil in lupus nephritis: a randomized controlled trial

We conducted a prospective multicenter, opened-label, parallel, randomized, controlled trial to compare tacrolimus (TAC) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for induction and maintenance therapy in lupus nephritis (LN). Adult patients with biopsy-proven LN International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society classes III-V and active nephritis were to receive prednisolone (0.7-1.0 mg/kg/day for four weeks of run-in period and tapered) and randomly assigned to receive TAC (0.1 mg/kg/day) or MMF (1.5-2 g/day) as induction therapy for six months. All patients who had remission received azathioprine (AZA) 1-2 mg/kg/day as standard treatment in the maintenance phase. The primary outcome was Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index-2000 (SLEDAI-2K) at six and 12 months, and the secondary outcomes included renal SLEDAI, non-renal SLEDAI, modified SLEDAI-2K, immunity SLEDAI, and disease activity remission. Eighty-four patients were randomized. One patient who was randomized to the TAC group withdrew from the study immediately after randomization. Therefore, 42 patients received MMF and 41 patients received TAC. Disease activity remission rate and time to disease activity remission were similar in both groups. Twelve patients (28.57%) in the MMF group and 10 patients (24.39%) in the TAC group achieved disease activity remission. For disease activity scores, both regimens significantly improved SLEDAI-2K during induction and maintenance therapy. Overall, SLEDAI-2K score in the MMF group decreased more compared with the TAC group. In the MMF group, mean SLEDAI-2K decreased from 11.6 ± 4.8 to 6.3 ± 3.9 after induction therapy and to 5.4 ± 4.4 after maintenance therapy. In the TAC group, mean SLEDAI-2K decreased from 9.0 ± 3.7 to 6.3 ± 5.1 after induction therapy and to 7.1 ± 5.4 after maintenance therapy. Renal SLEDAI and modified SLEDAI-2K showed a similar pattern with SLEDAI-2K. In non-renal SLEDAI and immunity SLEDAI, both regimens also resulted in decreased disease activity scores during the first two months. After that the scores were slightly increased. In the MMF group, the scores were still lower than baseline but in the TAC group were not. In conclusion, disease activity remission rate was similar in the MMF and TAC groups. For disease activity score as measured by SLEDAI-2K, TAC was comparable with MMF during induction but MMF was more effective on disease activity of active LN classes III and IV at 12 months, especially in the renal system.

Abdominal aorta and pelvic artery calcifications on plain radiographs may predict mortality in chronic kidney disease, hemodialysis and renal transplantation

PURPOSE

Vascular calcification is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and predicts poor patient outcomes. While computed tomography is the gold standard for evaluation of vascular calcification, plain radiograph offers a simpler and less costly alternative. The calcification of abdominal aorta, iliac and femoral arteries has been evaluated by plain radiograph, but the data on their outcome predictabilities are still limited. The present study investigated the role of abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) and pelvic arterial calcification (PAC) in predicting overall morality in non-dialysis CKD stages 2-5 (CKD 2-5), maintenance hemodialysis (HD) and long-term kidney transplant (KT) patients.

METHODS

Four hundred and nineteen patients were included. Lateral abdominal and pelvic radiographs were obtained. The degree of AAC and PAC was evaluated according to the methods described previously by Kaupplia et al. and Adragao et al. Patients were followed prospectively for 5 years.

RESULTS

AAC and PAC scores correlated well with the correlation coefficients of 0.442 for CKD 2-5, 0.438 for HD and 0.586 for KT (p < 0.001). Patients with AAC score > 6 or PAC score > 1 were older, showed higher prevalence of DM and had higher serum phosphate and PTH but lower serum albumin and eGFR. A more severe degree of AAC was associated with an increase in KT duration, whereas a more severe degree of PAC was associated with worsening kidney function and prolonged dialysis vintage. Kaplan-Meier survival curves revealed AAC score > 6 as a significant predictor of all-cause mortality in CKD 2-5 but not in HD or KT, whereas PAC score > 1 was a significant predictor of all-cause mortality in all three populations. After adjusting for age, the predictability of AAC was lost, whereas PAC remained an independent predictor of mortality in all three populations. Adjustments for cardiovascular and CKD risk factors including age, gender, BMI, DM, serum albumin, calcium and phosphate attenuated the predictability of PAC in HD but not in CKD 2-5 or KT patients.

CONCLUSION

PAC was better than AAC in predicting mortality in CKD, HD and KT patients.

Trough level from twice daily to once daily tacrolimus in early conversion kidney transplant recipients: a prospective study

Background Early conversion from twice-daily tacrolimus (TAC-BID) to once-daily tacrolimus (TAC-OD) provides a greater benefit of reducing under-exposure of TAC-OD during the first period after transplantation. Information regarding the conversion dose among Asian kidney transplant recipients is still limited. Objective This study aimed to compare the trough levels (C_min) of TAC-BID (Prograf^®) and TAC-OD (Advagraf^®). The values were obtained from early conversion intervention by 1:1 milligram per-milligram. Setting A university-based hospital. Method This study employed a single-center, open-label, prospective and single-armed design. Fifteen de novo standard risk kidney transplant recipients were enrolled. Fourteen days after transplantation, the C_min of TAC-BID (pre-conversion C_min) was determined. Subsequently, TAC-BID was converted to TAC-OD with a similar dose. The C_min of TAC-OD was first measured at a steady state (immediate post-conversion C_min) and compared. All enrolled patients received therapeutic monitoring at the first and second months. Main outcome measure Pre-conversion C_min of TAC-BID and immediate post-conversion C_min of TAC-OD. Results The immediate post-conversion C_min was found to be 23% lowered than the pre-conversion C_min. However, the C_min of TAC-OD was found to be similar to the pre-conversion C_min compared during the follow-up period. Renal function was found to be stable in all patients over 2 months. Conclusion Early conversion therapy was associated with a significantly lower immediate post-conversion C_min but comparable C_min throughout the follow-up period. The "one to one conversion ratio" from TAC-BID to TAC-OD could be performed among Asian de novo kidney transplant recipients at an early period after transplantation.

Absence of JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) viremia in early post-transplant JCPyV nephropathy: A case report

JC polyomavirus (JCPyV)-associated nephropathy (JCPyVAN) occurs in <3% of PVAN cases after renal transplantation. We report the first confirmed case to our knowledge of JCPyVAN diagnosed by kidney biopsy in the early 6 months post transplant in Thailand. In this case report, recovery of renal allograft function was not observed after reduction of immunosuppressive agents and administration of intravenous immunoglobulin and cidofovir. Despite persistent JCPyV viruria, no significant further decline in allograft function was documented at 15 months post transplant.

Hyperparathyroidism and increased fractional excretion of phosphate predict allograft loss in long-term kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

After kidney transplantation, fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) normally returns to baseline within 1 year whereas hyperparathyroidism persists in most kidney transplant (KT) recipients. As a result, serum phosphate remains relatively low in association with increased serum calcium and urinary phosphate excretion when compared to chronic kidney disease patients. The relationship between mineral metabolism and outcomes in long-term KT recipients has not been extensively studied. This study investigated whether the alteration in mineral metabolism influenced graft survival in long-term KT recipients.

METHODS

This study included 273 KT recipients after 1 year of transplantation. Mineral parameters were obtained at the time of enrolment and patients were followed prospectively for an average of 71 months.

RESULTS

Graft loss (death-censored) occurred in 41 (15%) patients. In univariate analysis, deceased donor transplantation, decreased serum albumin and estimated glomerular filtration rate, increased serum phosphate, parathyroid hormone (PTH), FGF-23 and fractional excretion of phosphate (FePi) predicted future allograft loss. After adjustments for cardiovascular disease risk factors, donor type, dialysis vintage, serum albumin and allograft function, only increased PTH and FePi remained associated with the outcome. Relationships between increased serum phosphate and FGF-23 with graft survival were lost after adjustments. Adjusted survival curves revealed the association between PTH > 90 pg/mL and FePi > 20% with worse graft survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperparathyroidism and increased FePi predicted allograft loss in long-term KT recipients.

Ten-Year Follow-up of Pharmacokinetics-Guided Very Early Cyclosporine Minimization Synchronized With Everolimus Initiation in De Novo Kidney Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Minimization of calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) from the 1st week after kidney transplantation (KT) may reduce the risk of CNI nephrotoxicity.

METHODS

Ten de novo KT recipients who received full exposure cyclosporine (CsA) and prednisolone as initial therapy were enrolled. Initial CsA minimization was 50% and started at day 7 after KT. This was synchronized with everolimus (EVL) initiation. Target trough level of EVL was 3-8 ng/mL. Pharmacokinetics studies of CsA and EVL were studied at week 4. The CsA dosage was further reduced to keep a lowest value of serum creatinine and a target EVL level. Primary outcomes were estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline and last follow-up.

RESULTS

Patients' mean age at last follow-up was 60.6 ± 11.7 years. Follow-up duration was 121.6 ± 12.8 months. Pharmacokinetics study found that Cmax of CsA ranged from 309 to 1,896 ng/mL, mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of CsA was 3,449 ± 1,402 ng·h/mL, C0 of EVL was 5.2 ± 1.5 ng/mL, Cmax of EVL was 15.4 ± 4.6 ng/mL, and AUC of EVL was 99.7 ± 26.1 ng·h/mL. Achieved nadir serum creatinine was 1.03 ± 0.33 mg/dL. Achieved best eGFR (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula) was 99.7 ± 26 mL/min. eGFR at 12 months was 82 ± 25 mL/min. Last serum creatinine was 1.32 ± 0.45 mg/dL. Last eGFR was 57.2 ± 13.55 mL/min. Actuarial death-censored 10-year graft survival was 100%. Actuarial 10-year patient survival was 80%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our intervention can lead to an average of 75% CsA minimization and a very good eGFR at 10 years.

Outcome of Pretransplantation Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Highly Sensitized Deceased-donor Kidney Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Sensitization is associated with a high rate of post-transplantation rejection. A desensitization protocol using therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) was proposed to reduce anti-HLA antibody before transplantation, but there has been limited data regarding the efficacy of pretransplantation TPE in highly sensitized deceased-donor kidney transplantation (DDKT).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of 142 patients who received DDKT was conducted and divided into two groups: a high-panel-reactive antibody (PRA) >50% group and a low-PRA ≤50% group. The high-PRA group was sub-divided into those who received and did not receive pretransplantation TPE. Donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies (DSA) were also collected pretransplantation in the high-PRA group.

RESULTS

The probability of acute rejection was 26, 4, and 9 cases/1000/person month in the high-PRA group with no TPE, the high-PRA group receiving TPE, and the low-PRA group, respectively (P = .0208). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, the hazard ratio for graft rejection was 2.37 (95% confidence interval: 0.89 to 6.35) and 2.22 (95% confidence interval: 0.54 to 9.13) in the group of high-PRA who received TPE and high-PRA with no TPE, compared with the low-PRA group, respectively (P value not significant). The incidence of antibody-mediated rejection in 6 months in the DSA-positive subgroup was not different between those who received TPE or no TPE.

CONCLUSION

Desensitization with TPE is a reasonable alternative for highly sensitized DDKT. Patients who received pretransplantation TPE had a lower incidence of acute rejection compared to the group that did not receive TPE. However, pretransplantation TPE alone was not effective in the prevention of acute rejection in recipients with DSA.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Peripheral Arterial Disease Among Thai Dialysis Patients

OBJECTIVE

To identify the prevalence and risk factors of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in dialysis patients covering both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

All consecutive cases of stable dialysis patients in Ramathibodi hospital from September 2013 to December 2013 were surveyed. Patients were classified as having PAD if they had ankle-brachial blood pressure index (ABI) values of ≤0.9 or >1.4. We also measured toe-brachial blood pressure index (TBI) and TBI ≤0.6 was classified as abnormal TBI. Data were analyzed to identify the prevalence and risk factors of PAD.

RESULTS

Among these 269 stable dialysis patients, the mean age was 48.8±15.1 years and 56.9% were male. The mean dialysis vintage was 52.6±41.8 months. The prevalence of PAD was 11.5% and the prevalence of abnormal TBI was 29.7%. Multivariate regression analysis found that increased body mass index (BMI), history of coronary artery disease (CAD), and increased pulse pressure were associated with PAD.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of PAD among long-term stable dialysis patients in Thailand was around one-tenth. The prevalence of abnormal TBI was higher than those of abnormal ABI criteria. Factors associated with PAD were increased BMI, history of CAD, and increased pulse pressure.

Stabilization of estimated glomerular filtration rate in kidney transplantation from deceased donors with acute kidney injuries

AIM

To evaluate and compare the outcomes of kidney transplant (KT) from deceased donors among standard criteria, acute kidney injury (AKI) and expanded criteria donors (ECDs).

METHODS

This retrospective study included 111 deceased donor kidney transplant recipients (DDKT). Deceased donors were classified as standard criteria donor (SCD), AKI donor and ECD. AKI was diagnosed and classified based on change of serum Cr by acute kidney injury network (AKIN) criteria. Primary outcome was one-year estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) calculated from Cr by CKD-EPI. Multivariate regression analysis was done by adjusting factors such as type of DDKT, %Panel-reactive antibodies, cold ischemic time, the presence of delayed graft function and the use of induction therapy. Significant factors that can affect the primary outcomes were then identified.

RESULTS

ECD group had a significantly lower eGFR at one year (33.9 ± 17.3 mL/min) when compared with AKI group (56.6 ± 23.9) and SCD group (63.6 ± 19.9) (P < 0.001). For AKI group, one-year eGFR was also indifferent among AKIN stage 1, 2 or 3. Patients with AKIN stage 3 had progressive increase of eGFR from 49.6 ± 27.2 at discharge to 61.9 ± 29.0 mL/min at one year. From Kaplan-Meier analysis, AKI donor showed better two-year graft survival than ECD (100% vs 88.5%, P = 0.006). Interestingly, AKI group had a stable eGFR at one and two year. The two-year eGFR of AKI group was not significantly different from SCD group (56.6 ± 24.5 mL/min vs 58.6 ± 23.2 mL/min, P = 0.65).

CONCLUSION

Kidney transplantations from deceased donors with variable stage of acute kidney injuries were associated with favorable two-year allograft function. The outcomes were comparable with KT from SCD. This information supports the option that deceased donors with AKI are an important source of organ for kidney transplantation even in the presence of stage 3 AKI.

Significance of HLA Antibody Detected by PRA-Bead Method in Kidney Transplant Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The impact of specific HLA antibodies on the allograft function in the Luminex era is not clearly known. This study aimed to investigate kidney transplantation outcomes in patients with different anti-HLA antibody status as detected by Luminex PRA.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 106 deceased-donor kidney transplantation (DDKT) patients divided into 3 groups by PRA status as detected by PRA-bead: (1) PRA = 0; (2) positive PRA but with negative antibody against donor's HLA antigens; and (3) positive PRA with positive anti-HLA antibody specificity against donor's HLA antigens.

RESULTS

There were 65, 23, and 18 patients in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Early allograft rejections were highest in group 3 (22.2%) (P = .02). In multivariate analysis, delayed graft function was the only factor that was associated with allograft rejection (hazard ratio, 8.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.9-39.8; P = .004). Estimated glomerular filtration rates at 1 year of the 3 groups were 54.6, 55.8, and 60.0 mL/min (P = .71). One-year allograft failure and death were not different among the 3 groups. Expanded-criteria deceased donors were associated with both allograft failure (P = .003) and patient death (P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-HLA antibody as detected by Luminex PRA was associated with early allograft rejection but not graft or patient survival. The effect of newer treatment modalities can improve the outcomes of PRA-positive patients to be similar to nonsensitized patients at 1 year.

Impact of CYP3A5 polymorphism on trough concentrations and outcomes of tacrolimus minimization during the early period after kidney transplantation

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to determine the impacts of CYP3A5 polymorphism on tacrolimus concentration and the proportion of patients within a target therapeutic range during the first week after transplantation together with the 3-month acute rejection rate in kidney transplant patients receiving a minimized tacrolimus regimen.

METHODS

A total of 164 patients participated in the study. All received oral tacrolimus twice daily starting on the day of surgery with the target pre-dose (trough) concentration of 4-8 ng/ml for prevention of allograft rejection. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A5 genotypes were determined. The patients were divided into CYP3A5 expressers (CYP3A5*1 allele carriers) and CYP3A5 nonexpressers (homozygous CYP3A5*3). Whole blood tacrolimus concentrations on days 3 and 7 posttransplantation and the incidence of biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR) at 3-month posttransplantation were compared between groups.

RESULTS

On day 3, the median (IQR) dose-and-weight-normalized trough concentration in expressers and nonexpressers were 54.61 (31.98, 78.87) and 91.80 (57.60, 130.20) ng/ml per mg/kg/day, respectively (p < 0.001). Although only 47 and 42% of expressers and nonexpressers were within the target range on day 3, approximately 60% of both groups were within the target range on day 7. Proportions of BPAR among expressers and nonexpressers were 6.0 and 7.4 %, respectively (p = 0.723). The median (IQR) times to the first rejection in CYP3A5 expressers and nonexpressers were 32 (12, 68) and 15 (12, 37) days, respectively (p = 0.410).

CONCLUSIONS

Although CYP3A5 polymorphism significantly influenced the tacrolimus dose required to achieve the target concentration, the impact of CYP3A5 polymorphism on BPAR was not observed in this study.

Assessment of the Changes in Health-related Quality of Life After Kidney Transplantation in a Cohort of 232 Thai Patients

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate QoL of these patients before and after KT and to determine relationships between basic factors of gender, age, educational background, marital status, income, and QoL of patients after undergoing KT.

METHODS

A retrospective study to determine HQoL of 232 ESRD patients who received KT in a single center in Thailand. HQoL was determined by 3 methods: WHO questionnaires, EQ5D questionnaires, and visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaires. Other important demographic information including gender, age, education, marital status, and family income were recorded. Pre- and post-KT HQoL was scored and compared. The Pearson method was used to calculate correlation statistics.

RESULTS

WHO QoL is significantly improved in all domains including physical health, psychological health, social health, and environmental health after KT (P < .001). EQ5D QoL is also significantly improved after KT for the categories of self-mobility, self-care, pain, distress, anxiety, and depression. The mean score of VAS before KT was 40.98 and rose to 83.10 after KT (P < .001). Gender and marital status were not significantly correlated with quality of life. The level of education and average income of the family are positively correlated with increased QoL after KT (P < .01 and P < .001). However, age is negatively correlated with increased QoL (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Successful KT leads to a significant increase of HQoL as determined by 3 independent measurements. The improvement is shown by better physical health, psychosocial health, environmental health, and functional abilities of the transplant recipients. Our results confirm that KT should be the treatment of choice for patients with ESRD.

A 25-year experience of kidney transplantation in Thailand: report from the Thai Transplant Registry

AIM

To report the kidney transplant activity and survival data during the past 25 years from the Thai Transplant Registry.

METHODS

By using the registry database that was collected and updated yearly by 26 transplant centres across the country, we have reported the donor, recipient, and transplant characteristics during the past 25 years from 1987 to 2012. The primary outcome was graft loss that was defined as return to dialysis, graft removal, retransplant, or patient death.

RESULTS

465 kidney transplants were performed in 2012, an 8.1% and 23.0% increase in living and deceased donor transplants compared to the previous year, respectively. Between 1987 and 2012 with the data of 3808 recipients, patient survival and graft survival improved significantly. Traffic accident was the most common cause of death in brain-dead donors. Additionally, the most common cause of end-stage kidney disease was glomerulonephritis. Infection has been among the most common causes of death in kidney transplant recipients.

CONCLUSION

We have reported the total number, the graft and the patient survival data of kidney transplant recipients in Thailand for the period from 1987 to 2012. Although the number of patients is much lower than that in the developed countries, the patients and the graft survival rates are comparable.

Increased urine transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and serum uric acid are associated with an early decline of glomerular filtration rate in kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) may play a role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis in kidney allografts. Experimental hyperuricemia shows activation of intrarenal RAS. However, the association between uric acid (UA), RAS, and TGF-β1 in allograft recipients has not been demonstrated. Therefore we investigated the association between serum UA levels, RAS, and TGF-β1 in kidney transplant recipients during the 1st year after transplantation.

METHODS

Sixty-two transplant recipients were included in the study. Serum UA level, plasma renin activity (PRA), and urine TGF-β1 concentration were studied at 3, 6, and 12 months after transplantation. Statistical correlation was demonstrated with the use of Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and area under the curve were performed to assess the diagnostic performance to discriminate between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 and ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2).

RESULTS

For all 62 patients, urine TGF-β1 and serum UA had a tendency to increase during the 1-year follow-up period, despite no statistically significant change in eGFR. We found that increased urine TGF-β1 was correlated with rising serum UA levels and a decrease of the eGFR (r = 0.27 [P = .01]; r = -0.38 [P = .0003]). In contrast, there was no significant change in PRA and it was not correlated with eGFR or TGF-β1 (r = -0.01; P = .93).

CONCLUSIONS

Increased urine TGF-β1 and serum UA level during the 1st year after transplantation correlated with a decline in eGFR. The evaluation of these parameters in the early post-transplantation period may identify patients at risk of allograft dysfunction.

Vascular calcification in long-term kidney transplantation

AIM

Vascular calcification (VC) is common among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to the strong prevalence of cardiovascular and CKD-related risk factors such as diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension and phosphate retention. Kidney transplantation improves kidney function and abnormal mineral metabolism at the same time. It remains unclear whether kidney transplantation favourably impacts VC in the long-term.

METHODS

The present study examined VC in 132 kidney transplant (KT) recipients who had been transplanted for longer than one year. The severity of VC was compared to 129 CKD stages 5-5D patients on a kidney transplant (KT) waiting list.

RESULTS

The median KT vintage was 88 months. The prevalence of VC among KT and CKD patients were 54.5% and 62.8%, respectively, (P = 0.2). There were no differences in age, gender, body mass index (BMI), the prevalence of DM or CVD between the two groups. Among patients with calcification, a more severe degree was observed in KT recipients (P = 0.01). Aging, DM, CVD and dialysis vintage were associated with significant VC in both groups. The degree of VC in KT recipients was more pronounced than that in CKD patients among those who experienced prolonged dialysis vintage (>2 years) (P = 0.04). Among KT recipients, the severity of VC increased with the length of time after transplantation and became more substantial after 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term KT recipients demonstrated a more severe degree of VC compared to matched CKD stages 5-5D patients. The severity of VC became more pronounced among those with longer transplant vintage and was in part influenced by past dialysis experience.

Comparison of the immunogenicity of a monovalent influenza A/H1N1 2009 vaccine between healthy individuals, patients with chronic renal failure, and immunocompromised populations

BACKGROUND

Data on the immunogenicity (IG) of the influenza vaccine among patients at high risk of influenza-related complication are limited.

METHODS

We studied the antibody titer following a single dose of monovalent 2009 influenza A (H1N1) vaccine between groups of adult patients who were healthy, those with chronic renal failure (CRF), kidney transplant (KT) recipients, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. The IG (primary endpoints) was accessed at 4 weeks after vaccination. The secondary endpoint was safety of the vaccine.

RESULTS

A total of 293 patients were studied. Patients' mean age was 41(standard deviation [SD], 13.3) years old. At baseline, mean age (P < .001), history of vaccination in a prior year (P < .001), and geometric mean titers (GMT; P < .001) significantly differed between each groups and the majority (70%) of participants had the hemagglutination inhibition titer <1:10. The IG of the vaccine was highest in the healthy group (71.4 %). The response rate among CRF, KT, and HIV groups was 42.4% (risk ratios [RR], 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.5-1.02), 31.9% (RR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.34-0.76), and 29.7% (RR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.3-0.6), respectively. The vaccine was well-tolerated in all studied groups. Thirty (10.2%) patients experienced at least 1 adverse reaction but systemic reaction was uncommon (3.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

A single dose of monovalent 2009 influenza A (H1N1) vaccine result in poor IG among high-risk populations, including CRF, KT and HIV patients.

Overview of lupus nephritis management guidelines and perspective from Asia

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common and important manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Evidence suggests higher rates of lupus renal involvement in Asian populations, and maybe more severe nephritis, compared with other racial or ethnic groups. The management of LN has evolved considerably over the past three decades, based on observations from clinical studies that investigated different immunosuppressive agents including corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, mycophenolic acid, calcineurin inhibitors and novel biologic therapies. This is accompanied by improvements in both the short-term treatment response rate and long-term renal function preservation. Treatment guidelines for LN have recently been issued by rheumatology and nephrology communities in U.S.A. and Europe. In view of the racial difference in disease manifestation and response to therapy, and the substantial disease burden in Asia, a panel of 15 nephrologists and rheumatologists from different Asian regions with extensive experience in lupus nephritis - the Steering Group for the Asian Lupus Nephritis Network (ALNN) - met and discussed the management of lupus nephritis in Asian patients. The group has also reviewed and deliberated on the recently published recommendations from other parts of the world. This manuscript summarizes the discussions by the group and presents consensus views on the clinical management and treatment of adult Asian patients with LN, taking into account both the available evidence and expert opinion in areas where evidence remains to be sought.

Low hip bone mineral density predicts mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a five-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Bone loss is common among hemodialysis patients and contributes to mortality. The association between bone loss and vascular calcification may explain the increased mortality risk. Studies on the association between decreased bone mass and mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients are limited.

METHODS

Eighty-three hemodialysis patients underwent bone mineral density (BMD) and coronary artery calcification (CAC) measurements. The relationship between BMD and mortality was analyzed after a 5-year follow-up period.

RESULTS

Eighty percent of the patients had reduced hip BMD. In univariate Cox regression analyses, age, cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, increased CAC score, increased comorbidity score and decreased hip BMD were associated with mortality. Low hip BMD remained independently associated with mortality after adjustments for cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidity score and CAC score. Patients with BMD in the lowest tertile had the worst survival.

CONCLUSION

Low hip BMD predicted mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients independent of CAC.

Potential impact of Thai Kidney Transplant program on immunosuppressive utilization: an analysis of the national transplant registry

BACKGROUND

The Thai Kidney Transplant (TKT) program was launched in October 2008 to promote transplantation among previously disadvantaged populations, using fixed-rate provider payment. This study investigated if the introduction of this program could alter the natural practice trends of immunosuppressive drug use.

METHODS

Data from the Thai Transplantation Registry were analyzed. The change in trend of immunosuppressive use was assessed using the multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) technique.

RESULTS

During 1987-2012, 3975 kidney transplantations were done. The average age of patients was 42 years and 62% were male. Chronic glomerulonephritis accounted for one third of those with known causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Eighty-six percent were on hemodialysis before transplantation. Prednisolone was used in 95.87% of all transplant recipients, whereas calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), mycophenolates (MPAs), azathioprine (AZA), and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORis) were used in 95.67%, 64.22%, 12.25%, and 2.31%, respectively. Overall use after 2008 was decreased for AZA (18.16% to 3.40%) and mTORis (2.86% to 1.5%) but increased for MPAs (50.80% to 84.34%), CNIs (95.43% to 96.04%), and prednisolone (95.60% to 96.29%), as compared with before the program inception. The slopes of use trends of AZA, MPAs, and CNIs did not significantly marginally differ from their natural trends before the program inception (P = .496, .108, and .741, respectively). However, the natural increasing use trend of mTORis significantly changed to a decreasing pattern after the introduction of the TKT program (P = .018).

CONCLUSION

Fixed-rate provider payment might interfere with the natural practice trends of immunosuppressive drug use.

Early posttransplant nephrotic range proteinuria as a presenting feature of minimal change disease and acute T cell-mediated rejection

Early-onset nephrotic range proteinuria is an extremely rare presentation of an acute rejection episode. Herein, we have reported a patient who developed nephrotic range proteinuria 7 days after receiving a renal allograft from his sister despite minor changes in serum creatinine levels. A kidney biopsy spcimen revealed a T cell-mediated acute rejection process concomitant with minimal change disease (MCD). Proteinuria and renal dysfunction improved dramatically in response to corticosteroids. The possibility of acute cellular rejection and coexisting MCD should be considered in patients with early posttransplantation nephrosis and normal serum creatinine levels. The coexistence of these entities provides support for the role of T cells in the pathogenesis of MCD.

Overview of lupus nephritis management guidelines and perspective from Asia

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common and important manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Evidence suggests higher rates of lupus renal involvement in Asian populations, and maybe more severe nephritis, compared with other racial or ethnic groups. The management of LN has evolved considerably over the past three decades, based on observations from clinical studies that investigated different immunosuppressive agents including corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, mycophenolic acid, calcineurin inhibitors and novel biologic therapies. This is accompanied by improvements in both the short-term treatment response rate and long-term renal function preservation. Treatment guidelines for LN have recently been issued by rheumatology and nephrology communities in U.S.A. and Europe. In view of the racial difference in disease manifestation and response to therapy, and the substantial disease burden in Asia, a panel of 15 nephrologists and rheumatologists from different Asian regions with extensive experience in lupus nephritis - the Steering Group for the Asian Lupus Nephritis Network (ALNN) - met and discussed the management of lupus nephritis in Asian patients. The group has also reviewed and deliberated on the recently published recommendations from other parts of the world. This manuscript summarizes the discussions by the group and presents consensus views on the clinical management and treatment of adult Asian patients with LN, taking into account both the available evidence and expert opinion in areas where evidence remains to be sought.

The predictive factors of low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and vitamin D deficiency in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Vitamin D is a steroid hormone with pleiotropic effects. The association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level [25(OH) D] and lupus nephritis are not clearly known. We aim to determine serum 25(OH) D levels in patients with inactive SLE, active SLE without lupus nephritis (LN) and active SLE with LN and to identify clinical predictor of vitamin D deficiency. One hundred and eight SLE patients were included. Patients were classified as Group (Gr) 1, 2 and 3 if they had SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) <3, ≥ 3 but no LN and ≥ 3 with LN. Important baseline characteristics were collected. 25(OH) D was measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). SLEDAI in Gr1, Gr2 and Gr3 was 0.7 (0.9), 5.6 (2.3) and 9.2 (5.2), respectively. 43.5 % had vitamin D insufficiency and 29.6 % had vitamin D deficiency. Mean 25(OH) D in each groups was 28.3 (8.0), 26.7 (9.5) and 19.9 (7.6) ng/ml (p < 0.001 comparing Gr1 and 3) (p = 0.003 comparing Gr2 and 3). Vitamin D deficiency was found in 11.1, 22.2 and 55.6 % of Gr1, 2 and 3. Linear regression analysis found that 25(OH) D was significantly correlated with serum albumin (r = 0.28, p = 0.004), inversely correlated with SLEDAI (r = -0.22, p = 0.03) and urinary protein creatinine index (UPCI) (r = -0.28, p = 0.005), but not with sun exposure score, body mass index and estimated GFR. Only UPCI was significantly inversely correlated with 25(OH) D (p = 0.02) from multiple linear regression. LN was a significant predictor of vitamin D deficiency from multivariate logistic regression (OR 5.97; p = 0.006). Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was found in 93 and 86 % of LN with proteinuria ≥ and <500 mg/day. We conclude that SLE patients with LN have significantly lower vitamin D level than inactive SLE and active SLE without LN. Hence, nephritis is a significant predictor of vitamin D deficiency in SLE patients.

Treatment of a brain abscess caused by Scedosporium apiospermum and Phaeoacremonium parasiticum in a renal transplant recipient

Cerebral mycosis is a significant cause of morbidity among immunocompromised populations. We present here a case of cerebral infection with Scedosporium apiospermum and Phaeoacremonium parasiticum in a 49-year-old renal transplant recipient. Fourteen years after renal transplantation, the patient presented with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis treated with intravenous liposomal amphotericin B. The patient had clinical and radiographic improvement. However, 6 weeks later, the patient presented with cerebral infection. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple rim enhancing brain abscesses. Brain and cerebrospinal fluid cultures ultimately grew Scedosporium apiospermum and Phaeoacremonium parasiticum. The patient was treated with voriconazole for 6 months and had clinical and radiologic improvement. We believe this is the first reported case of co-infection of the brain with scedosporiosis and phaeohyphomycosis in a renal transplant recipient, who had received intravenous liposomal amphotericin B. Voriconazole may represent a new therapeutic option for these simultaneous infections in the brain.

Long-term outcome of kidney retransplantation in comparison with first kidney transplantation: a report from the Thai Transplantation Registry

INTRODUCTION

Kidney retransplantation is a high-risk procedure that is increasingly performed because of previous graft failure. The aim of this study was to determine the long-term outcomes of kidney retransplantations compared with first kidney transplantations under the current era of immunosuppression.

METHODS

Since the first retransplantation in Thailand was performed in 1993, this study included all consecutive cases registered in the Thai Transplantation Registry database from January 1993 to December 2011. A total of 3337 kidney transplantations were available for the analysis. Graft loss was defined as a return to dialysis or graft removal. Death with a functioning graft was censored.

RESULTS

Of 3337 kidney transplantations during the study period, 113 were second and 3 were third transplantations. Among these 116 retransplantations, the most common identified causes of end-stage renal disease were chronic glomerulonephritis (38.8%), followed by hypertensive nephropathy (13.0%), diabetic nephropathy (6.0%), and lupus nephritis (1.7%). The retransplantation recipients were older (mean age, 46.2 ± 12.8 years) than the first transplantation group (mean age, 42.2 ± 12.8 years). The proportion of living-related kidney transplantations and male sex were similar between first and retransplantation recipients. Fourteen percent of retransplantation recipients showed high immunologic risk as defined by current panel reactive antibodies ≥30% compared with 3% of those in the first transplantation group (P < .001). The percentages of induction therapy with antithymocyte globulin and anti-interleukin-2 antibody in the retransplantation and first transplantation groups were 18.3% versus 4.3% and 60.0% versus 32.6%, respectively. The graft survival rates (95% confidence interval [CI]) at 1, 5, and 10 years were 88.6% (80.7-93.3), 87.3% (79.1-92.5), and 74.4% (53.7-86.9) among retransplantation, versus 95.0% (94.1-95.7), 87.0% (85.5-88.5), and 70.7% (67.4-73.8) among first transplantation groups, respectively (P = .63). Patient survival rates were not different between first and retransplantation groups (P = .42). The leading cause of graft loss in the retransplantation group was chronic allograft nephropathy (22%), whereas infection (57%) was the major cause of death in this group.

CONCLUSION

The 10-year patient and graft survival rates of kidney retransplantation were acceptable. The combination of induction therapy with a calcineurin inhibitor and a mycophenolate mofetil/mychophenolic acid-based regimen lead to outcomes comparable to first kidney transplantations among our cohort of 3337 patients.

Survival advantage of kidney transplantation over dialysis in patients with hepatitis C: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The clinical outcomes of hepatitis C infection in kidney transplantation and maintenance dialysis patients remain controversial. Here, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis that aimed at comparing 5-year mortality rates between waiting list and kidney transplantation patients with hepatitis C infections.

METHODS

We searched Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus databases published since inception to June 2011 and found nine studies with 1734 patients who were eligible for pooling. Eligible studies were cohort studies that analyzed adult end-stage renal disease patients with hepatitis C virus infection and compared death rates between waiting list and kidney transplantation. The crude risk ratio of death along with its 95% confidence interval was estimated for each study. Data were independently extracted by two reviewers.

RESULTS

The pooled risk ratio of death at 5 years by using a random-effect model was 2.19 (95% confidence interval, 1.50-3.20), which significantly favored the kidney transplantation when compared with the waiting list. There was evidence of heterogeneity of death rates across studies (χ(2) = 22.6; df = 8; P = 0.004). From the metaregression model, age and male gender could be the source of heterogeneity or variation of treatment effects. A major cause of death in the waiting list was cardiovascular diseases, whereas infection was a major cause in the transplant group. There was no evidence of publication bias suggested by an Egger test.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review suggested that hepatitis C virus-infected patients who remain on dialysis are at higher risk of death when compared with those who received kidney transplantations.

Outcomes and predictive factors of pediatric kidney transplants: an analysis of the Thai Transplant Registry

As universal coverage for pediatric kidney transplantation (KT) was introduced in Thailand in 2008, the number of recipients has been increasing. We evaluated predictive factors for graft failure to understand how to improve clinical outcomes in these children. Using data obtained from the National Transplant registry, we assessed the risk of graft failure using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression. Altogether, 201 recipients aged <21 yr at the time of KT were studied. Living donors (LD) were significantly older than deceased donor (DD). Mean cold ischemia time of DD was 17 h. The mean donor glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was 84.0 mL/min/1.73 m(2) . Induction immunosuppressive therapy was administered more frequently in DD than in LDKT. Delayed graft function (DGF) occurred in 36 transplants. Over 719 person years of follow-up, 42 graft failures occurred. Graft survival at one, three, and five yr post-transplant were 95%, 88% and 76%, respectively. Two factors independently predicted graft failure in multivariate analysis. The hazard ratios for graft failure in patients with DGF and in patients with donor GFR of ≤30 mL/min/1.73 m(2) were 2.5 and 9.7, respectively. Pediatric recipients should receive the first priority for allografts from young DD with a good GFR, and DGF should be meticulously prevented.

Mineral metabolism and outcomes in chronic kidney disease stage 2-4 patients

BACKGROUND

Marked hyperphosphatemia, hyperparathyroidism and 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency are associated with mortality in dialysis patients. Such data in chronic kidney disease stage 2-4 population are limited. It has been suggested that high-normal serum phosphate predicts worse renal and patient outcomes. The data regarding parathyroid hormone and outcomes in this population is limited. The present study examined mineral metabolism and its association with the development of end-stage renal disease and mortality in stage 2-4 chronic kidney disease patients.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study that included 466 non-dialysis chronic kidney disease stage 2-4 patients. Mineral parameters were obtained at the time of enrollment and the patients were followed prospectively for 25 (1-44) months or until they reached the endpoints of end-stage renal disease or mortality.

RESULTS

Hyperparathyroidism and 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency began to occur in the early stages of chronic kidney disease, whereas significant hyperphosphatemia only developed in the later stages. High-normal and mildly elevated serum phosphate (>4.2 mg/dL) predicted the composite outcome of end-stage renal disease or mortality after adjustments for cardiovascular risk factors, chronic kidney disease stage and other mineral parameters. Parathyroid hormone levels above the upper limit of normal (>65 pg/mL) predicted the future development of end-stage renal disease and the composite outcome of end-stage renal disease or mortality after adjustments. 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency (<15 ng/mL) was also associated with worse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In chronic kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism developed prior to significant hyperphosphatemia confirming the presence phosphate retention early in the course of chronic kidney disease. High-normal serum phosphate and mildly elevated parathyroid hormone levels predicted worse renal and patient outcomes. This data emphasizes the need for early intervention in the care of chronic kidney disease stage 2-4 patients.

Impact of early ureteric stent removal and cost-benefit analysis in kidney transplant recipients: results of a randomized controlled study

INTRODUCTION

Duration of retaining ureteric stent in kidney transplantation is still controversial. Our study aimed to compare healthcare expenditures in kidney transplant recipients with early or routine ureteric stent removal.

METHODS

This study was a post hoc analysis of data from a single-center parallel randomized controlled open-label study. Ninety patients who underwent kidney transplantation at a university-based hospital in Thailand from April 2010 to January 2011 were enrolled. Patients were randomized to early ureteric stent removal (8 days) or routine ureteric stent removal (15 days) after kidney transplantation. The costs of direct health care associated with kidney transplantation, urologic complication, and urinary tract infection (UTI) within the postoperative period among the 2 groups were compared.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients (58% living donor) fulfilled the randomized criteria (early removal, n = 37; routine removal, n = 37). By intention-to-treat analysis, incidence of UTI in early stent removal was less than the routine stent removal group (15/37, 40.5% vs 27/37, 72.9%; P = .004). Urologic complication showed no significant difference between the early and routine groups (4/37 vs 2/37; P = .39). The cost-benefit analysis of early over routine stent removal was 2390 United States dollars (USD) per patient (11,182 vs 8792 USD). Presence of UTI significantly increase the hospitalization cost of 5131 USD per patient (mean cost = 12,209 vs 7078 USD; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

UTI in the early post-kidney transplantation period increases healthcare cost. Early ureteric stent removal can reduce UTI and reduce hospitalization cost. This approach shows cost-benefit in the early management of kidney transplant recipients.

Cytomegalovirus viremia after kidney transplantation in Thailand: predictors of symptomatic infection and outcome

BACKGROUND

While prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after kidney transplantation (KT) has become a standard practice in Western countries, this approach is not always feasible in Thailand. In order to argue for the need for CMV prevention, the knowledge on the incidence and impact of the CMV infection following KT is highly desirable.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of adult patients who underwent KT at our transplant center between January 2006 and December 2010. Patients who developed CMV viremia within 1 year after transplantation were studied for the incidence, risk factors, and outcome of symptomatic infection. The threshold value of blood CMV DNA load indicating symptomatic infection was also analyzed.

RESULTS

Symptomatic CMV infection occurred in 18 (4.6%) patients within a median time of 12.1 (range, 3-30) weeks after KT. At initial presentation, coexisting opportunistic infection was common (44%) and gastrointestinal tract was the major type of organ involvement (44%). Between groups of patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic CMV infection, the mean (± standard deviation) level of blood viral load were significantly higher in the first group [4.2 (± 0.5) vs 3.3 (± 0.4) log copies/mL]. From multivariate analysis, associated factors of symptomatic infection included acute rejection [odds ratio (OR) 7.32, P = 0.001], and acute tubular necrosis (OR 3.44, P = .019). Death (13%) and graft failure (13%) were significantly higher among the symptomatic infection group than those in the no-infection group (P = .005 and .03, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Despite a low incidence rate, symptomatic CMV infection clearly resulted in significant morbidity following KT. In Thailand, the prevention of CMV infection should be prioritized among high-risk KT populations.

High incidence of bacteriuria in early post-kidney transplantation; results from a randomized controlled study

Since the incidence of bacteriuria in kidney transplant recipients varyes according to the study, we examined it among our cases. Our post hoc analysis of data from a single-center, parallel, randomized, controlled, open label study included 90 patients who underwent kidney transplantation at our hospital from April 2010 to January 2011. Patients were randomized to early ureteric stent removal at 8 days versus routine ureteric stent removal at 15 days after kidney transplantation. We identified the incidence of and causative organism for bacteriuria in the early posttransplant period. Seventy-Four patients (58% living donors) participated in this study. The overall incidence of bacteriuria was 56.7% during the first month after kidney transplantation. In patients who had bacteriuria, 48% showed symptomatic urinary tract infection, 40% asymptomatic bacteriuria and 12% urosepsis. The most common organism was Escherichia coli (40%) follow by Klebsiella pneumoniae (19%). The incidence of an ESBL producing organism was 34%. The incidence of bacteriuria was high during the early post-kidney transplant period, requiring increased awareness and surveillance.

Renal phosphate loss in long-term kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Renal phosphate wasting occurs early postkidney transplantation as a result of an accumulation of parathyroid hormone and fibroblast growth factor 23 from the CKD period. Serum phosphate, parathyroid hormone, and fibroblast growth factor 23 return to baseline 1 year postkidney transplantation. What happens beyond this period is unknown.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

Mineral parameters were obtained from 229 kidney transplant recipients at least 1 year posttransplantation; 46 normal subjects and 202 CKD patients with similar GFR served as controls. Factors associated with phosphate metabolism were analyzed.

RESULTS

Despite the reduced graft function, most kidney transplant recipients had lower serum phosphate than normal subjects accompanied by renal phosphate loss. Fibroblast growth factor 23 was mostly lower or comparable with normal subjects, whereas parathyroid hormone was elevated in most patients. Hyperparathyroidism is also more common among kidney transplant recipients compared with CKD patients. Both parathyroid hormone and fibroblast growth factor 23 showed relationships with renal phosphate excretion, but only parathyroid hormone displayed an independent association. Parathyroid hormone showed the highest area under the curve in predicting renal phosphate leak. When patients were categorized according to parathyroid hormone and fibroblast growth factor 23 levels, only subset of patients with high parathyroid hormone had an increased renal phosphate excretion.

CONCLUSIONS

Relatively low serum phosphate from renal phosphate leak continued to present in long-term kidney transplantation. Both parathyroid hormone and fibroblast growth factor 23 participated in renal tubular phosphate handling, but persistent hyperparathyroidism seemed to have a greater influence in this setting.

Severe nonfebrile dengue infection in an adolescent after postoperative kidney transplantation: a case report

We herein have reported a case of severe nonfebrile dengue infection complicated with refractory pancytopenia and a large perinephric hematoma with shock in a 16-year-old adolescent during the early postoperative period after kidney transplantation. After the diagnosis of end-stage renal disease she underwent living-related kidney transplantation. Thirteen days after successful transplantation, she exhibited a notable amount of ascites, bilateral pleural effusions, thrombocytopenia, and increased hemoglobin without pre-existent fever. Further investigation revealed positive dengue nonstructural protein 1 antigen (dengue NS1 Ag) and dengue virus serotype 1 by a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in the patient's serum. She exhibited hemophagocytic syndrome, manifested by refractory pancytopenia and refractory anemia resulting in hypovolemic shock and acute graft failure on day 28 posttransplantation. The anemia was attributed to a large hematoma around the transplanted kidney requiring surgical evacuation of clotted blood. Postoperatively, she gradually recovered with resolution of thrombocytopenia and excellent graft function. Persistent dengue antigenemia and viremia was shown by dengue NS1 Ag and RT-PCR of dengue serotype-1. The viremia was present longer than the dengue antigenemia. Dengue-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirmed the primary dengue infection and evidence of a recent donor dengue infection.

Adenovirus disease after kidney transplantation: course of infection and outcome in relation to blood viral load and immune recovery

Information on the clinical spectrum and management of adenovirus infection after kidney transplantation is limited. From April 2007 to April 2010, 17 kidney transplant recipients were diagnosed with adenovirus disease. The median time to infection was 5 (range, 2-300) weeks after transplantation. Of the 17 patients, 13 (76.5%) presented early, within 3 months posttransplant, and four (23.5%) presented late, more than 3 months after transplant. Besides urinary tract, involvement of other organs was common (63.6%) among patients with adenovirus viremia. Despite reduction of immunosuppression, six patients subsequently had a rise in the level of blood viral load, mostly within a week after diagnosis. However, only three (27.3%) patients with early infection developed disease progression. Compared to the late infection group, patients with early infection had significantly lower absolute lymphocyte counts at week 1 (p = 0.01) and 3 (p = 0.002) after diagnosis. Four patients received intravenous cidofovir. At 6-month follow-up, 10 (90.9%) patients had reversible graft dysfunction. Only one (5.7%) died from bacterial sepsis. Adenovirus disease is a significant complication following kidney transplantation. Early case recognition with reduction of immunosuppression is critical. Serial blood adenovirus viral loads and assessment of lymphocyte recovery are also useful in monitoring the course of infection.

Efficacy and safety of enoxaparin during hemodialysis: results from the HENOX study

BACKGROUND

Low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) have been suggested as an anticoagulant in hemodialysis (HD) since they provide convenient usage, safety and effective outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

Determine clinical efficacy and safety of enoxaparin sodium for the anticoagulation effect during HD in 99 clinically stable end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

This prospective open-label study was conducted in seven hemodialysis centers in Thailand HD prescription during the present study was similar to the previous prescriptions including the type of dialyzer. Enoxaparin sodium 0.7 mg/kg was administered into a pre-dialyzer arterial line at the beginning of the HD session. The anticoagulation effect was monitored by visual inspection of the HD line hourly and inspection of the dialyzer at the end of HD session. Vascular access compression time was monitored at both arterial and venous sites separately at the end of the HD.

RESULTS

HD with enoxaparin sodium resulted in no fibrin/clot formation in a hemodialysis line in 97 cases (98%), and no significant clot formation in a dialyzer in 96 cases (97%). The mean vascular compression time was 5.63 +/- 1.90 minutes at the arterial site and 5.72 +/- 2.61 minutes at the venous site. Neither major adverse events nor major hemorrhages were reported Prolonged activated partial thromboplastin times (aPTT) at 30 minutes after hemodialysis were reported in two cases. These abnormal aPTT cases returned to normal levels within 24 hours and 72 hours, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggests that a single-dose regimen of enoxaparin sodium 0.7 mg/kg is an effective, well-tolerated, and convenient alternative to sodium heparin.

Long-term outcome of very early cyclosporine minimization and de novo everolimus therapy in kidney transplant recipients: a pharmacokinetic guided approach

BACKGROUND

Cyclosporine (CsA) nephrotoxicity is an important cause of chronic allograft dysfunction. Clinical information concerning the impact of very early CsA dose reduction in kidney transplant recipients is limited. We have examined the long-term outcomes of very early CsA dose reduction. This is synchronized with de novo everolimus and steroid therapy.

METHODS

We enrolled 10 de novo kidney transplant recipients to receive CsA (target C(0) 250-350 ng/mL) and prednisolone as initial therapy. CsA dosage was reduced by 50% at posttransplant day 7. Everolimus (target trough level, 3-8 ng/mL) was concomitantly started at the day of CsA reduction. Full pharmacokinetic studies of everolimus and CsA were studied at the period of 4-8 weeks after CsA reduction. CsA was then gradually reduced to maintain a trough level of 50-100 ng/mL and/or C(max) <600 ng/mL.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 51.2 ± 3.45 months. The nadir serum creatinine was 1.03 ± 0.33 mg/dL. The mean initial estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 97.97 ± 23.36 mL/min. The mean initial trough everolimus was 5.2 ± 1.5 ng/mL. The eGFR at 1 year, 3 years, and last follow-up was 82 ± 25, 80 ± 21, and 80 ± 25 mL/min, respectively. Patient and graft survival was 100%.

CONCLUSION

Very early CsA dose reduction synchronized with de novo everolimus therapy was associated with good long-term patient and graft survival in kidney transplant recipients. This intervention can lead to 75% CsA minimization and is associated with very good GFR by the modification of Diet in Renal Disease Formula at year 4.

Risk factors and outcome of delayed graft function after cadaveric kidney transplantation: a report from the Thai Transplant Registry

INTRODUCTION

Kidney transplantation is the best treatment for end-stage renal disease patients. Delayed graft function (DGF) remains one of the major problems after cadaveric kidney transplantation. This study has reported the risk factors and outcomes of DGF using data from Thai Transplant Registry Database.

METHODS

The data of all cadaveric kidney transplantations (CD-KT) were retrieved from the database. DGF was defined as a failure to decrease the serum creatinine within 72 hours or a requirement for dialysis within the first week after transplantation. We performed logistic regression analysis to correlate donor features (age, sex, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), brain death from a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), best and last serum creatinine) with recipient demographics (age, sex) and clinical outcomes cold ischemic time [CIT] and DGF.

RESULTS

We analyzed 756 CD-KT including 320 (42%) patients experiencing DGF. Upon multivariate analysis, factors significantly correlated with DGF were CIT (P < .001), donor last serum creatinine (P < .001), interleukin 2 monoclonal antibody induction (P = .004), donor age (P = .017), donor CVA (P = .012), and prior peritoneal dialysis (PD) (P = .012). There was no significant correlation between DGF and donor height, weight, sex, CPR, brain death from CVA, best serum creatinine, recipient age, or sex in multivariate analysis. Graft survivals at 1 and 5 years after transplantation were significantly lower among the DGF group namely, 91.0% vs. 95.2% and 78.7% vs. 86.0%, respectively (P = .006). Patient survival was also significantly lower 94.1% vs. 96.4% and 82.1% vs. 92.2%, respectively, (P = .001).

CONCLUSION

A higher value of the donor's terminal serum creatinine, CIT, IL2mAb induction, PD prior to KT and donor age increased the risk for DGF after CD-KT. DGF significantly lowered kidney allograft and patient survivals at 1 and 5 years after transplantation among the Thai population.

Different etiologies of graft loss and death in Asian kidney transplant recipients: a report from Thai Transplant Registry

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplantation is the most performed solid organ transplantation in Thailand. Over 4000 patients have received kidney transplantation from 23 centers within the kingdom. This study sought to demonstrate the causes of graft loss and death in Thai patients receiving kidney transplant during the past decade.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Thai Transplant Registry database was used to evaluate the causes of graft loss and death. This database was established since 1997, a total of 2298 kidney transplants were available for analysis. Graft loss was defined as return to dialysis, graft removal, retransplantation, or death of the recipients. Patient survival was analyzed by all deaths.

RESULTS

Among 2298 recipients, 59% received organs from deceased donors. The mean age at transplantation was 42 years (SD 12) and 61% were male. The most common identified causes of the end-stage renal disease were chronic glomerulonephritis (25.3%) and hypertensive nephropathy (11.3%); half of those were unknown. Actuarial graft survival rates at 1 and 5 years were 89% and 73%, respectively. The common causes of graft loss were chronic allograft nephropathy (53%), acute rejection (15%), death with a functioning graft (15%), and transplant renal artery diseases (7%). The greatest proportion (64%) of deaths was infection owing to septicemia and/or pulmonary infection. The others were from cardiovascular deaths (12%), liver disease (6%), and malignancy (4%).

CONCLUSION

Graft survival rates were comparable with previous reports. However, the proportion of death with functioning graft and cardiovascular death as a cause of graft and patient loss is lower than that of Caucasian populations.