Kidney Transplant Patients Research Articles

Family Planning Counseling and Practices in Kidney Transplant Recipients.

Half of all female kidney transplant (KT) recipients are reproductive-aged, though data on reproductive practices and counseling are limited. This cross-sectional survey evaluated patient experiences, practices, and preferences surrounding contraception and pregnancy in female KT patients (listed or post-transplant) ages 14-45 years. A total of 152/682 eligible participants (22%; 50 pre- and 102 post-KT) completed the survey with 26% unaware at the time of KT that future pregnancy was possible. The majority (72%) of sexually active patients used contraception during the first year post-KT, though 24% exclusively used high failure-rate methods. Less than half (48%) felt their pre-KT reproductive counseling was adequate to guide decision-making, although 63% reported satisfaction with post-KT counseling. Discussions with transplant providers were the single most favored counseling modality at 74%. Misconceptions of intrauterine device safety and efficacy were identified. Reproductive counseling commonly occurred, although information was inadequate for guiding pregnancy and contraceptive decisions in most pre-KT patients. Misconceptions about pregnancy potential and contraceptive efficacy and safety were common, as well as patient reliance on high-failure contraceptive methods. Improving patient knowledge and access to contraception and pregnancy planning is essential for honoring patients' reproductive wishes while lowering obstetric, graft, and perinatal risks in post-KT pregnancies.

Prevalence and Pattern of Upper Gastrointestinal Lesions in Prospective Kidney Transplant Patients in Bangladesh

Prevalence and Pattern of Upper Gastrointestinal Lesions in Prospective Kidney Transplant Patients in Bangladesh

Accurate Multiplex qPCR Detection of Epstein–Barr Virus/Cytomegalovirus/BK Virus in Kidney Transplant Patients: Pilot Study

Chronic kidney disease is a really important heath issue, and transplantation is an intervention that can greatly increase patient quality of life and survival. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the BK virus, CMV, and EBV in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs); to assess the prevalence of infections; and to test if our detection method would be feasible for use in follow-ups with KTRs. A total of 157 KTRs registered at the Clinical Hospital “Dr. C. I. Parhon”, Iași, Romania, were selected using specific inclusion/exclusion criteria. We tested the blood samples from each patient for BK, EBV, and CMV using a multiplex real-time PCR (qPCR) assay and the TaqMan PCR principle. The highest prevalence was detected for BKV (11/157, 7%), followed by CMV (9/157, 5.7%) and EBV (5/157, 3.2%). By simultaneously detecting three possible nephropathic viruses and oncogenes in KTRs using multiplex real-time PCR, we aimed to optimize their monitoring and follow-up. The prevalence of the tested nephropathogenic viruses—BKV, CMV, and EBV—was comparable to that analyzed in other studies. We demonstrate that the use of qPCR for viral detection in KTRs is a robust, cost-effective method for case monitoring.

De novo malignancies after kidney transplantation

Cancer is the second cause of death in kidney transplant patients in most Western countries. The excess risk of cancer after kidney transplantation is two to three times higher than in the age and sex matched general population. Once cancer develops, the outcome is generally poor, particularly for melanoma, renal cell carcinoma and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder.A multidisciplinary approach for screening, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of neoplastic disease after kidney transplantation is necessary.

Does de novo malignancy heighten the risk of rejection in kidney transplant recipients?

Abstract Background Malignancies are the third leading cause of death among kidney transplant recipients. These patients face increased mortality and challenges such as allograft loss and rejection, which may arise from surgical complications, changes in immunosuppressive therapy, or the use of chemotherapeutics. This study aims to examine the risk of allograft rejection and loss in kidney transplant recipients diagnosed with de novo malignancies. Methods This retrospective case-control study included adult kidney transplant patients from 1986 to 2020 who developed de novo malignancies. Each patient with a malignancy was matched with a control without malignancy using the nearest neighbor matching method. The outcomes measured were biopsy-confirmed allograft rejection, death-censored allograft loss, and overall mortality after the diagnosis of malignancy in the malignancy group and at any point in the control group. Results Of 2 750 records reviewed, 267 patients (9.7%) had biopsy-confirmed malignancies, with a median age of 60 years and 66.3% men. The median follow-up was 218 months. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the allograft rejection rates were lower in the malignancy group compared to the control group (26 vs. 60, p < 0.001). Overall mortality was higher in the malignancy group, although this difference was not statistically significant (104 vs. 73, p = 0.25). Death-censored allograft loss was similar between groups (22 vs. 32, p = 0.49). Chemotherapy and older recipient age were associated with reduced allograft rejection risk, as indicated by multivariable regression analysis. Conclusions In kidney transplant recipients with de novo malignancies, death with a functioning graft remains significant. However, allograft loss rates do not increase compared to those without malignancies, and rejection risk is reduced, especially in older and chemotherapy-treated patients. These findings suggest that managing immunosuppression reduction in this population may be appropriate, but further research is needed to determine optimal care strategies.

Comparison of RT.PCR and ELISA Methods in the Diagnosis of Human Cytomegalovirus in Kidney Transplant Patients

Background: In kidney transplant recipients prone to infections like cytomegalovirus (CMV), a vital need for an accurate diagnostic method is evident. This study at Khorshid Laboratory in Tehran rigorously compares real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for CMV detection in transplant patients. Methods: In January to March 1400, 70 kidney transplant recipients were assessed for CMV DNA using RT-PCR and concurrent ELISA tests, with statistical analysis aided by SPSS. Results: In kidney transplant patients (average age: 49.40 ± 13.64 years), 4.3% tested positive for CMV via PCR. Strong correlation between serological and molecular methods. IgG and IgM antibody detection both showed high sensitivity and specificity, advocating for efficient CMV diagnosis at Khorshid Laboratory, Tehran. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the need for a quick and efficient CMV diagnostic approach in kidney transplant patients. The strong correlation between molecular and serological methods favors using the faster RT-PCR method, crucial for timely management, especially with the increasing age- related CMV incidence. The findings strongly recommend RT-PCR integration for enhanced sensitivity in kidney transplant patients at Khorshid Laboratory, Tehran.

Towards clinical translation of urinary vitronectin for non-invasive detection and monitoring of renal fibrosis in kidney transplant patients

BackgroundInterstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) is a critical factor in the prognosis of kidney health. Currently, IFTA quantitation in kidney biopsy samples is crucial for diagnosis and assessing disease severity, but the available non-invasive biomarkers are not satisfactory. Proteomic studies identified urinary vitronectin (VTN) as a potential biomarker for kidney fibrosis. As mass spectrometry techniques are not practical for use in clinical settings, we tested whether evaluation of urinary VTN levels through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) can help monitor fibrotic changes in kidney transplant recipients and prove the clinical viability of the assay.MethodsA total of 58 kidney transplant (KTx) patients who underwent renal biopsy were included in the study. Patients were categorized into two groups referred as no fibrosis (0%) or with fibrosis (≥ 5%) based on their histological findings. In a subsequent/follow-up analysis, the time elapsed from transplantation was also considered. The urinary levels of VTN were measured using ELISA.ResultsVTN (p = 0.0180) and VTN normalized by urinary creatinine levels (p = 0.0037), were significantly increased in patients with fibrotic grafts. When focusing on patients with long-term grafts (> 3 years from transplantation, n = 36), VTN exhibited superior potential in identifying fibrotic grafts compared to albuminuria (VTN p = 0.0040 vs. albuminuria p = 0.0132). Importantly, in this group, while albuminuria correctly identified 71% of fibrotic patients, the combination of VTN plus albuminuria correctly classified 89% of fibrotic grafts detected by renal biopsy.ConclusionsVTN has emerged as a valid indicator of renal fibrosis. Of interest, urinary levels of VTN in combination with conventional clinical parameters (such as albuminuria) significantly improved the non-invasive detection of renal fibrosis in kidney transplant patients.

Performance evaluation of the Qiagen BK virus ASR on the NeuMoDx system

BackgroundBK virus (BKV) is the main cause of polyomavirus‐associated nephropathy in kidney transplant patients and hemorrhagic cystitis in bone marrow recipients. BKV quantitation by PCR is crucial in diagnostic and therapeutic management of transplant patients infected with BKV. We evaluated the performance of the Qiagen BKV ASR for the quantification of BKV on the NeuMoDx™ 96 System and compared the results to our standard of care (SOC) test, the Diasorin BKV ASR on the Liaison® MDX. MethodsThe analytical performance was assessed using commercially available BKV Panels that meet the 1st WHO International Standards for BKV nucleic acid amplification techniques. The clinical performance was evaluated using 204 residual plasma and urine samples previously identified with the SOC assay. ResultsThe assay exhibited a strong linear correlation (R² = 0.9985) with the reference panel and an excellent analytical accuracy (R² = 0.9976). The LoD was determined to be 50 IU/mL with remarkable precision within and between days (SDEV 0.00—0.57 and 0.05—0.31, respectively). Of the 204 samples, only 10 (4.9 %) were discordant (PPA = 92.37 %; NPA = 100 %). Although the Qiagen BKV ASR quantified BKV DNA at an average of 0.48 Log IU/mL lower than the SOC, it showed a strong concordance to the SOC results. Compared to the SOC, the Qiagen BKV ASR had a more automated workflow, with less hands-on time, leading to quicker turnaround time. ConclusionThe Qiagen BKV ASR is specific, sensitive, and accurate in quantifying BKV in plasma and urine specimens on the fully automated NeuMoDx™ 96 System.

Precision in Immune Management: Balancing Steroid Exposure, Rejection Risk, and Infectious Outcomes in Adult Kidney Transplant Recipients.

With kidney transplant immunosuppression, physicians must balance preventing rejection with minimizing infection and malignancy risks. Steroids have been a mainstay of these immunosuppression regimens since the early days of kidney transplantation, yet their risks remain debated. Our study looks at the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing early steroid withdrawal (ESW) vs. steroid continuous (SCI) maintenance immunosuppression in adult kidney transplant recipients. A retrospective case-control study, utilizing propensity score-matching, was performed using the US Collaborative Network Database within TriNetX to evaluate renal transplant outcomes at one year in first-time kidney transplant adult patients (>18 years old) who were prescribed an ESW regimen (no steroids after post-transplant day 7 with maintenance tacrolimus [tac] + mycophenolic acid [MMP]/mycophenolate mofetil [MMF]) vs. SCI (tac + MMF/MMP + prednisone). Cohorts were matched on demographics, comorbidities, previously described risk factors for rejection, and induction immunosuppression. Primary outcomes included viral infections, pyelonephritis, and sepsis. Secondary outcomes included renal transplant rejection, death-censored allograft failure (eGFR < 15 mL/min), patient mortality, delayed graft function, and diabetes mellitus. A total of 2056 patients were in each cohort after matching (mean age: 50.7-51 years, 17.9-20.0% African American, 60-60.6% male.) The SCI cohort had a significantly higher cumulative incidence of composite viremia (18 vs. 28.1%, ESW vs. SCI, p < 0.01) driven by CMV, EBV, and BK virus. Post-transplant diabetes mellitus was significantly higher in the SCI cohort (3.21% vs. 5.49%, ESW vs. SCI, p < 0.01). Delayed graft function was also higher in the SCI cohort (19.55% vs. 22.79%, ESW vs. SCI, p < 0.01). Pyelonephritis (2.3 vs. 4.91%, ESW vs. SCI, p < 0.01) and sepsis (2.15 vs. 5.95%, ESW vs. SCI, p < 0.01) were higher in the SCI cohort. Rejection rates were similar between ESW and SCI (29 vs. 31%, ESW vs. SCI, p = 0.41). There were significantly higher incidences of graft failure (4.9 vs. 9.9%, ESW vs. SCI, p < 0.01) and mortality (0.8 vs. 2.1%, ESW vs. SCI, p < 0.01) in the SCI cohort. This well-matched case-control study suggests that ESW is associated with lower infectious outcomes, mortality, and graft failure without increasing rejection risk, supporting the potential benefits of ESW in kidney transplant patients.

High histoplasmosis incidence in kidney transplant recipients in Santa Fe city, Argentina

Abstract Histoplasmosis is endemic in the central/north-east region of Argentina. It is estimated that the incidence of this mycosis is low in solid organ transplant recipients. This work aims to describe the epidemiology, clinical forms, and evolution of kidney transplant recipients diagnosed with histoplasmosis in Santa Fe city, Argentina. A retrospective study was carried out between 2015 and 2020 on kidney transplant patients with symptoms associated with histoplasmosis in Santa Fe city. Histoplasmosis diagnosis was performed through histopathology, recovery of Histoplasma spp., by culture, and/or positive nested PCR specific for the Histoplasma Hc100 gene. During the study period, 360 kidney transplantations were performed. Of these patients, 12 were diagnosed with histoplasmosis (3.3%). The patients' median age was 51 years, and 75% were male. Eleven patients (92%) presented the disseminated form of the disease. Thirty-three % were diagnosed with histoplasmosis in their first-year post-transplantation (mostly 6-12 months), while 42% received their diagnosis three years after transplantation. Laboratory diagnosis was performed by histopathology, culture, and PCR in four cases (33%), by culture and PCR in three cases (25%), and by PCR alone in three cases (25%). Thus, all 12 patients showed positive nested PCR results. All patients received amphotericin B as initial treatment. A good response was observed in 83% of patients. We found a high incidence of histoplasmosis in kidney transplant recipients (up to 10 times higher than reports from other endemic areas). Diagnosis by histopathology/culture showed 75% sensitivity, while nested PCR showed better sensitivity and diagnostic speed.

Single-cell RNA-sequencing of BK polyomavirus replication in primary human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells identifies specific transcriptome signatures and a novel mitochondrial stress pattern.

BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) contributes to premature renal failure in 10%-20% of kidney transplant recipients. Current treatment relies on reducing immunosuppression to regain BKPyV-specific immune control. Subsequently, declining allograft function may result from persisting viral cytopathology, BKPyV-specific immune reconstitution, or alloimmunity/rejection, all being poorly distinguishable by current histological or molecular approaches. To reduce the complexity encountered in BKPyV-replicating kidneys, we analyzed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in primary human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells at 24 and 48 h post-infection (hpi) using single-cell RNA-sequencing (10x-Genomics-3´ kit). At 24 hpi, viral transcript reads predominantly mapped to the early viral gene region (EVGR) and shifted to >100-fold higher late viral gene region (LVGR) levels at 48 hpi, matching the sequential bi-directional viral protein expression from the circular double-stranded BKPyV-DNA genome. Besides expected coverage "hills" at viral 3´-poly-A sites, unexpected "spike" and "pulse" reads resulted from off-target TSO priming. "Spike" and "pulse" patterns were rare for the mostly unidirectional reads mapping to the circular mitochondrial genome. Bioinformatic curation removed "spikes" and "pulses" and reclassified 10% of DEGs in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (RPTECs). Up-regulated gene ontologies included S and G2/M phase, double-stranded DNA repair, proximal tubulopathy, and renal tubular dysfunction, whereas allograft rejection, antigen presentation, innate immunity, translation, and autophagy were down-regulated. BKPyV-LVGR expression induced a novel mitochondrial cell stress pattern consisting of discordant up-regulation and down-regulation of mitochondria-encoded and nucleus-encoded mitochondrial genes, respectively. We explored which top-scoring gene sets of late-phase BKPyV-replicating RPTECs can identify BKPyV-associated nephropathy in kidney transplant biopsies. The results should facilitate distinguishing BKPyV-associated pathology from other entities in kidney transplant biopsies.IMPORTANCEBK polyomavirus (BKPyV) infects more than 90% of the general population and then persists in the reno-urinary tract. Subsequently, low-level urinary shedding is seen in 10% of healthy BKPyV-seropositive persons, indicating that BKPyV replication occurs despite the presence of virus-specific cellular and humoral immunity. Notably, transplantation of donor kidneys with low-level BKPyV replication is a risk factor for progression to high-level BKPyV viruria, new-onset BKPyV-DNAemia and biopsy-proven BKPyV nephropathy. Here, we identify a short list of robust up- and down-regulated nucleus-encoded differentially expressed genes potentially allowing to discriminate viral from allograft immune damage. By carefully curating viral and mitochondrial transcriptomes, we identify a novel virus-associated mitochondrial stress pattern of up-regulated mitochondria-encoded and down-regulated nucleus-encoded mitochondrial transcripts which heralds the BKPyV-agnoprotein-mediated immune escape by breakdown of the mitochondrial membrane potential and network and mitophagy. The results may prove useful when assessing the role of BKPyV replication in kidney transplant patients with suspected acute rejection and/or BKPyV nephropathy.

Predictors of Post-operative ABG Changes to Pre-operative Levels in Kidney Transplant Patients, a Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Kidney transplant is the treatment of choice for chronic renal failure (CRF), significantly improving patient outcomes. Fluid administration during surgery can lead to the accumulation of acid ions and electrolytes, inducing pH changes from the pre-operative to post-operative period, which may compromise transplant success. The impact of acid-base balance changes on transplant outcomes is crucial, yet research on predictors and arterial blood gas (ABG) changes post-kidney transplant is limited. Understanding ABG changes can enhance perioperative management, early detection of complications, and long-term graft function, thereby optimizing patient care and increasing transplant success rates. Objectives: To assess ABG changes before and after kidney transplant and identify predictors of post-operative acidosis in patients with renal failure through cross-sectional studies. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study, we included 97 patients who had undergone kidney transplant. During surgery, patients received crystalloid fluids, with 49 receiving only normal saline and 48 receiving only Ringer's lactate. Data collection involved the insertion of an arterial line after anesthesia induction, and the first ABG sample was obtained as a pre-operative measure. A post-operative measure was taken at the end of the surgery. Ethical considerations were followed throughout the study. Statistical analysis included paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test to compare pre- and post-operative ABG measures, with a significance level set at a P-value less than 0.05. Results: Total of 97 patients, which 65 (69.4%) were male and 32 (30.6%) were female and mean age was 38.6 ± 12.2. Variables significantly associated with post-op acidosis were fluid administered (OR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.45 - 4.58), post-op central venous pressure (CVP) (OR: 2.31, 95% CI: 1.23 - 2.62, p &lt; 0.05), post-op base excess (BE) (OR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.50 - 2.95, P &lt; 0.05). HCO₃ (P = 0.010), BE (P = 0.002), pH (P = 0.023) were significantly lower in the normal saline group compared to the Ringer's group. Post-op pH and BE was also associated with increased post-op CVP. Post-op acidosis and post-op CVP were significantly associated with post-op BE. Conclusions: Post-operative ABG changes, including decreases in pH and HCO3, are key indicators of transplant outcomes, reflecting graft function and patient stability. These findings highlight the critical need for prompt management of ABG abnormalities to optimize transplant success and minimize complications, making vigilant monitoring a vital part of post-transplant care.

Association of variabilities in body mass index and metabolic parameters with post-kidney transplantation renal outcomes

Metabolic syndrome is a significant risk factor for poor graft outcomes in kidney transplant (KT) patients. However, the effects of variability in metabolic parameters on graft outcomes in KT patients have not been completely elucidated. A total of 852 KT patients were included from the Korean Organ Transplantation Registry. The study exposure was variability in body mass index (BMI) or other metabolic parameters measured at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after KT. Patients were classified into tertiles according to the degree of variability. The primary outcome was a composite of adverse kidney outcomes, such as death-censored graft loss or ≥ 30% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate. The adverse kidney outcomes occurred in 73 (8.6%) participants. The high-BMI variability group had a higher risk for adverse kidney outcomes compared to the low-variability group. High variabilities in triglyceride, fasting blood glucose, and systolic blood pressure were also associated with adverse kidney outcomes. Furthermore, high variability in metabolic syndrome-related composite indices, such as the triglyceride and glucose index and metabolic variability scores, showed a higher risk for adverse kidney outcomes. In conclusion, high variability in metabolic parameters could be associated with an increased risk of adverse kidney outcome in KT patients.

Kidney disease and reproductive health.

Understanding the relationship between reproductive health and kidney function is important to provide holistic care for people living with kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has negative impacts on both male and female fertility owing to factors including inflammation, hormonal dysregulation, reduced ovarian reserve, reduced sperm quality and sexual dysfunction. However, pregnancy is achievable for most cisgender women with kidney disease, including kidney transplant recipients and patients on dialysis. CKD in pregnancy is associated with health risks to the mother and child, including increased risk of progression of kidney disease, hypertensive complications of pregnancy, and neonatal complications including fetal growth restriction, preterm birth and stillbirth. However, with appropriate pre-pregnancy counselling, fertility assessment and support, health optimization, and evidence-based antenatal care, the majority of patients will achieve a good outcome. Medication safety should be reviewed before and during pregnancy and lactation, weighing the risk of disease flare against potential adverse effects on the offspring. Important areas for further research include the optimal timing of delivery and the short- and long-term cardiovascular and renal impacts of pregnancy in patients with CKD, as well as long-term kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in their offspring.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of kidney transplantation in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease patients.

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the best kidney replacementtreatment for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). We aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of KT in ADPKD patients compared to those in non-ADPKD patients. We retrospectively analyzed KT recipients in two Korean transplantation centers from 2005 to 2020. Propensity score-matching and Cox regression analysis were used to assess the clinical outcomes of ADPKD compared to non-ADPKD and identifyprognostic factors influencing outcomes in ADPKD. Among a total of 4452 KT patients, 189 (4.2%) were ADPKD patients. Median age at transplantation was 53.0 and 47.0 in ADPKD and non-ADPKD patients, respectively. In both groups, living-donor KT was more common than deceased-donor KT. The ADPKD group had a 4.09-fold higher risk of post-transplant diabetes mellitus and a 1.65-fold higher risk of post-transplant infection compared to the non-ADPKD group; however, subjects with ADPKD had similar risk of rejection, graft failure, and mortality. In the ADPKD group, kidney volume decreased after KT, irrespective of kidney volume status (Mayo classification), while the size of hepatic cysts increased. Neither kidney volume nor nephrectomy of native kidneys were associated with risk of infection, graft failure, or mortality in the ADPKD group. ADPKD patients have a higher risk of post-transplant diabetes mellitus and infection than non-ADPKD patients, with no significant impact of kidney volume or nephrectomy on post-transplant outcomes.

Predictors of self-care in kidney transplant patients according to preoperative dialysis: A comparative study

BackgroundPreemptive kidney transplantation (PKT) is associated with reduced dialysis-related morbidity and improved graft survival, which has led to an increase in the prevalence of PKT. The distinct clinical pathways of PKT and non-preemptive kidney transplantation (NPKT) patients may affect their ability to perform self-care, a key factor in post-transplant recovery. However, there is ongoing controversy regarding which group demonstrates better self-care abilities, highlighting the need to explore the factors influencing self-care in each group. ObjectivesThis study aims to identify and compare predictors of self-care in PKT and NPKT groups. MethodsWe collected data from 209 KT recipients, consisting of 101 PKT and 108 NPKT patients, using self-administered questionnaires. These questionnaires assessed general and disease-specific characteristics, stress, social support, and self-care behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis. ResultsThe study identified significant predictors of self-care among both PKT and NPKT patients. For PKT patients, marital status (β =.19, p=.033) and family support (β =.28, p=.006) are key predictors of self-care, with those having spousal support and strong family networks reporting better self-care levels. Conversely, in NPKT patients, significant predictors of self-care included marital status (β =.31, p=.001), employment status (β =.29, p=.007), post-transplantation duration (less than 36 month) (β =.-.22, p=.015), post-transplantation duration (36-72 month) (β =.-.33, p=.001), and stress levels (β =-.20, p=.028). ConclusionsThe study provides valuable insights into the predictors of self-care based on preoperative dialysis status, illustrating distinct predictors between the growing population of PKT and NPKT patients. These findings emphasize the need for personalized nursing strategies to enhance post-transplant self-care, tailored to individual patient characteristics.

Transition of Care of Stable Kidney Transplant Patients to Referring Nephrologists: A Survey of U.S. Transplant Program Staff.

We conducted a national survey to assess the opinions and experiences of transplant center staff related to processes of care graduation. Following IRB approval, medical staff at U.S. adult kidney transplant programs were surveyed using the Qualtrics survey platform (4/5/2022-10/05/2022). Respondents were invited via email and listservs of professional societies. If > 1 survey was submitted for a program, a selection hierarchy was utilized (e.g., prioritizing nephrologists' responses). Respondents provided data from 46.7% of active programs (N = 92), representing 67% of the national kidney transplant volume. Most respondents (70%) were nephrologists. Full graduation to referring nephrologists was reported by 39% of transplant programs, with an additional 48% reporting partial graduation with ongoing co-management. Rationales for graduation were multifactorial, most commonly including patient travel distance (64%), maintenance of referral base (58%), continuity of care (58%), and center and/or patient burden (54%). Common reasons cited by programs for postgraduation return of care to the transplant center included worsening renal function (82%), malignancy (66%), opportunistic infection (63%), limited local nephrologist availability (60%), and pregnancy planning (57%). Additional coordinators and clinic staff were cited as needed to make transplant center perpetual care feasible by 78% of programs, with 71% stating that more clinicians are needed, while half thought more physical space or telemedicine are required. Graduation of kidney transplant patients is common, with half of programs using a joint-care approach and another third reporting full return of care to the referring nephrologist. Expanded opportunities related to transplant care for the broad nephrology community are essential.

Novel Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation Monitoring Strategies for Kidney Transplant Patients

Novel Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation Monitoring Strategies for Kidney Transplant Patients

The incidence and risk factors of post-transplant diabetes mellitus in living donor kidney transplantation patients: a retrospective study

BackgroundPost-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a well-known complication of kidney transplantation that significantly impacts recipient morbidity and mortality. Over the recent years, the incidence of PTDM has increased considerably worldwide. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for PTDM in living donor kidney transplantation patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary transplant center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and data were extracted between February 2016 and March 2022. Patients aged ≥ 18 years who underwent renal transplant with at least one year of post-transplant follow-up were included in the analysis, and their medical records were comprehensively reviewed. Patients < 18 years of age, history of diabetes mellitus, other organ transplants, or those who underwent transplantation outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were excluded from the study.ResultsThe study included 247 living donor kidney transplant patients, with a mean age of 39.5 ± 14.6 years. 17.0% of the patients were diagnosed with PTDM. Patient age and fasting glucose levels at 6-months and 12-months after transplantation were found to be significant risk factors for the development of PTDM.ConclusionAn increased occurrence of PTDM emphasizes the importance of identifying high-risk patients prior to transplantation and implementing early interventions to prevent potential complications that could affect graft and patient survival.

Anti-PD-1 immunotherapy for the treatment of metastatic urothelial carcinoma in a kidney transplant recipient: a case report

BackgroundImmune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has been widely investigated in urothelial carcinoma; however, the utility of ICI therapy in the treatment of organ transplant recipients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) is unclear. We herein report the first case of a first-line anti-programmed cell death-1 (anti-PD-1) monotherapy for a kidney transplant patient with mUC.Case presentationA 71-year-old woman who received a kidney transplant in 2003 was diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma in 2018. After operation of the tumor, the patient developed local recurrence at the site of the right kidney and bladder and multiple distant metastases in May 2020. Considering the intolerance of chemotherapy and high tumor mutation burden, we administered the anti-PD-1 agent tislelizumab (200 mg every three weeks). Partial response was achieved after two cycles of therapy and sustained until 18th cycles. There were no signs of kidney graft rejection. The immunotherapy was temporarily stopped after the 18th course because of a suspicious immune-related pneumonitis and was continued in December 2021.ConclusionsThis case demonstrates the feasibility of safely achieving stable cancer control in a kidney transplant patient with mUC without encountering graft rejection by using single-agent anti-PD-1 treatment.