Comparison of the efficacy of immunosuppressive regimens on orthotopic heart allografts

Abstract

The immunologic problems in heart transplantation are a challenge that must be overcome to prolong survival of transplant recipients. We have conducted a study on the effects on survival of several immunologic regimens in dogs. These included various combinations of azathioprine, prednisolone, dipyridamole, cyclophosphamide, antilymphocyte serum (ALS), and thymectomy. The dogs were divided into a control group and eight treatment groups. The best survival record was attained by the animals that were treated with a combination of azathioprine and prednisolone, with or without dipyridamole.