Nephrologie: Nierentransplantation

Abstract

Renal transplantation is currently the best option for renal replacement therapy. Quality of life will improve and lifetime will extend compared to patients staying on dialysis. New findings in the fields of pathogenesis, diagnostics and treatment make renal transplantation an effective standard procedure. In Germany, there is an imbalance between available donor kidneys and recipients. The increasing waiting time is a challenge in the treatment of patients suffering from end-stage renal disease. In the last few years great efforts were undertaken to expand the donor pool. Problems are the unreadiness for organ donation on the one hand and extended indication for renal transplantation on the other hand. Transplantation of so-called marginal organs will implicate new problems. A main focus of further research is the chronic allograft nephropathy. Advances in the field of immunosuppressive treatment lead to better results in organ and patient survival. Individualization of immunosuppression becomes one of the most important points. New markers are necessary for monitoring. The aftercare in the transplant center in close collaboration with nephrologists and family doctors is essential for a successful transplantation.