Renal Transplant Patients Research Articles

The pharmacogenetics of tacrolimus in renal transplant patients: association with tremors, new-onset diabetes and other clinical events.

Our study is the first study to investigate the effect of SNPs in CYP3A5, CYP3A4, ABCB1 and POR genes on the incidence of tremors, nephrotoxicity, and diabetes mellitus. A total of 223 renal transplant patients receiving tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) were recruited. Both adults and children patients participated in the study. Genotyping was performed using PROFLEX-PCR followed by RFLP. MPA and tacrolimus plasma concentrations were measured by immunoassay. The AUC0-12h of MMF was estimated by a Bayesian method. We found a statistically significant association between the CYP3A5*3 and CYP3A4*1B genotypes and the tacrolimus exposure. We found a lower occurrence of nephrotoxicity (p = 0.03), tremor (p = 0.01), and new-onset diabetes (p = 0.002) associated with CYP3A5*1 allele. The CYP3A4*1B allele was significantly associated with a lower occurrence of new-onset diabetes (p = 0.026). The CYP3A5*1 allele was significantly associated with an increased risk of acute and chronic rejection (p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively). Our results support the usefulness of tacrolimus pharmacokinetics in pre-kidney transplant assessments.

Comparison of skin cancer risk between renal transplant recipients and patients with glomerular diseases in rural Queensland.

There is increased risk of skin cancer in patients with gloermular disease or those with renal transplant. To compare the risk of skin cancer between kidney recipients (KTRs) and patients with glomerular disease (GD). The cohort comprised patients with KTRs (n = 61) and GD (n = 51) in Central and Central West Queensland, Australia. A quantitative cohort study was undertaken to study the risk of skin cancer in rural communities between two subgroups of patients with kidney diseases in relationship to immunosuppression. Statistical analyses of the differences in incidence of skin cancers between the two groups were done by chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, independent t-test and McNemar's test. KTRs with non-melanoma skin carcinoma (NMSC) increased significantly after treatment with immunosuppressants (pre-transplantation, n = 11 [18.0%], post-transplantation, n = 28 [45.9%]; p < 0.001). There were no differences in number of patients with NMSC observed in the GD group (pre-diagnosis, n = 6 [11.8%], post-diagnosis, n = 7 [13.7%]; p = 1.000). Compared to the risks at 1 year post-immunosuppressants, the incidence of NMSC of KTRs increased significantly at 3 years (20.3% vs. 35.4%, p < 0.001) and 5 years (20.3% vs. 62.2%, p < 0.001) post-immunosuppressants, whereas the increased incidence of NMSC was observed only at 5 years (2.1% vs. 11.8%, p = 0.012) in the GD cohort. The mean cumulative number of NMSC in KTRs increased significantly at 3 years (p = 0.011), and 5 years (p = 0.001) post-immunosuppressants, compared to the risks at 1 year post-immunosuppressants, however, no differences were noted in the GD cohort. Immunosuppressants increased the risk of NMSC in KTRs. The increased risk is likely dependent on the intensity and duration of immunosuppressants. In patients with a high risk of NMSC, reducing skin cancer risk should be considered in conjunction with the optimisation of treatment.

Reduced graft survival in renal transplant patients with urinary tract infections - a meta-analysis.

Renal transplant patients are prone to developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, the potential effect of a UTI on renal graft loss remains unclear. We systematically surveyed the literature for a potential association between UTI and graft loss. Articles were identified in online databases using a specific search string, followed by post selection for meta-analysis following four inclusion criteria: 1) a clear definition of UTI and recurrent UTI, 2) n > 200, 3) patient age > 16 years and 4) inclusion of data on graft loss. Data on UTI and graft loss were extracted from the included studies for calculation of a combined weighted odds ratio (OR) using the Mantel-Haenszel method. This review was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 statement. Unfortunately, only eight of 108 papers met the inclusion criteria. These studies reported between 276 and 2,368 patients, primarily male, aged around 50 years. The two-year incidence of overall UTI varied from 16.5% at a 27.5-month follow-up to 30.1% at a 24-month follow-up from transplantation. Seven papers were included in the OR analysis; two found an association between UTI and graft loss and five did not. However, in the meta-analysis, the weighted OR for all seven studies was 1.340 (95% confidence interval: 1.050-1.720). Filtering the literature for a strict definition of UTI allowed us to establish an association between UTI and graft loss in renal transplant patients. However, further investigation and stronger studies using the Goldman criteria are needed to allow stratification for UTI severity and effect on graft loss.

Sodium-glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors in Kidney Transplant Recipients – A Retrospective Single Center Study

Introduction: Considering the rising occurrence of posttranplant diabetes and the elevated cardiovascular burden among transplant recipients, the utilization of SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in this group is appealing because of their cardiovascular and renoprotective benefits. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of evidence for diabetic kidney transplant recipients (DKTRs) owing to concerns about potential renal graft damage and adverse effects. Methods: This retrospective study was devised to assess the effectiveness and safety of SGLT2i in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). The main focus was on evaluating their impact on parameters such as haemoglobin A1c levels, body mass index (BMI), lipid panel, haemoglobin levels, renal allograft function (estimated glomerular filtration rate) and urirnary protein-to-creatinine ratio. Results: A total of 75 renal transplant patients were included in this investigation. The study spanned a median observation period of 18 (2.0–71.0) months. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate at baseline was 61,9 (26–120) mL/min/1.73 m2 and remained stable throughout the follow-up. Median HbA1c decreased from 7.5 to 7.0% (95% CI; p&lt;0,002). A significant improvement in BMI (95% CI; p&lt;0,001) and lipid panel (95% CI; p&lt;0,05) were also observed. Median haemoglobin rate at baseline was 13,5g/dL and modestly improved at end of follow-up to 13,7g/dL (p=0,12). Regarding urinary protein:creatinine ratio, levels slightly but not significantly rose [+0.05 g/g (p=0,9)]. In a post-hoc subgroup analysis, the rate of urinary tract infections was low (10%). No other side effects were observed during the treatment course. Conclusions:This study demonstrates that the administration of SGLT2i is viable and well-tolerated, with no notable side effects observed in KTRs. However, the question of whether SGLT2i can effectively lower cardiovascular mortality and enhance allograft survival in these patients remains to be explored in subsequent studies.

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder risk and outcomes in renal transplant patients treated with belatacept immunosuppression.

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a rare but life-threatening malignancy that arises in the setting of immunosuppression (IS) after solid organ transplant. IS regimens containing belatacept have been associated with an increased risk of PTLD in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-seronegative renal transplant recipients, and the use of belatacept is contraindicated in this population. However, the impact of belatacept-based regimens on PTLD risk and outcomes in EBV-seropositive renal transplant recipients is less well characterized. A case-control study was conducted to investigate how combinatorial IS regimens impact the risk of PTLD and survival outcomes in renal transplant recipients at a large transplant center between 2010 and 2019. In total, 17 cases of PTLD were identified and matched 1:2 to controls without PTLD by age, sex, and transplanted organ(s). We compared baseline clinical characteristics, examined changes in IS regimen, viral loads, and renal function over time, and evaluated time-to-event analyses, including graft rejection and survival. Cases of PTLD largely resembled matched controls in terms of baseline characteristics, although expected differences in EBV serostatus trended toward significance (42.9% of PTLD cases were donor-positive/recipient-negative vs. 8.3% controls, p = 0.063). PTLD cases were not more likely to have received belatacept than controls. Belatacept was not associated with graft rejection or failure, re-transplant, hospitalization, or decreased survival. Belatacept was not associated with an increased risk of PTLD, and was not associated with decreased survival in either PTLD cases or in the entire cohort. Our case-control study supports the concept that belatacept remains a safe and effective option for IS in EBV-seropositive renal transplant patients.

The value of functional magnetic resonance imaging in evaluating renal allograft function

BackgroundTo explore the value of arterial spin labeled (ASL) and blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) imaging in evaluating allogeneic kidney function after renal transplantation. MethodsOne hundred and thirty-five renal transplant patients were included. Demographic and imaging data were collected. Transplanted renal function, pathology, ASL and BOLD parameters were obtained. The patients were divided into normal, mild and severe injury group. The correlation between BOLD/ASL parameters and clinical data were evaluated. The prediction models were based on ASL and BOLD parameters using multivariate logistic analysis. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to analyze the effects of gender, age, ASL and BOLD on the survival of renal transplant patients. ResultsASL and BOLD parameters were independently associated with renal function injury and renal allograft positive pathology. The AUC of prediction model for renal allograft function based on ASL and BOLD parameters was 0.85, while the AUC based on BOLD parameters was 0.70. Renal transplantation time showed a positive correlation with age, BOLD parameters and SCr，while a negative correlation with ASL parameters and eGFR. ASL parameter was positively correlated with eGFR and negatively correlated with Scr. BOLD parameter was negatively correlated with eGFR, ASL and positively correlated with Scr. Cox proportional hazards regression model showed that the increase of age could reduce the risk of renal function injury and positive pathology. ConclusionsASL and BOLD were associated with renal function injury and renal allograft positive pathology. ASL and BOLD had some value in predicting renal allograft function.

Total Hip Arthroplasty Outcomes before or after Renal Transplant: A Retrospective Large Cohort Analysis.

While it is known that patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are at an increased risk of complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA), there is a gap in the literature in comparing patients with ESRD to patients who undergo renal transplant (RT) before or after THA. This study is to address this gap by analyzing outcomes of THA in ESRD patients, RT patients, and RT candidates. Using the PearlDiver Mariner database, ESRD patients, RT patients, and RT candidates undergoing primary THA were identified and compared. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90 days and surgical complications up to 2 years. Ninety-day emergency department (ED) visits and inpatient readmission were also documented. A total of 7,868 patients were included: 5,092 had ESRD, 2,520 had RT before THA, and 256 were candidates for RT. Compared to patients with ESRD, RT patients demonstrated lower rates of medical complications such as pneumonia (3.61% vs. 5.99%, p = 0.039) and transfusion (4.60% vs. 7.66%, p < 0.001). Additionally, RT patients displayed decreased rates of surgical complications, including wound complications (2.70% vs. 4.22%, p = 0.001), periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) at 1 year (2.30% vs. 4.81%, p < 0.001) and 2 years (2.58% vs. 5.42%, p < 0.001), and aseptic loosening at 2 years (0.79% vs. 1.43%, p = 0.006). Similarly, when compared to RT candidates, RT patients demonstrated a lower incidence of postoperative complications, including 1-year PJI (2.30% vs. 5.08%, p = 0.013), 2-year PJI (2.58% vs. 5.08%, p = 0.028), 1-year aseptic loosening (0.56% vs. 2.73%, p < 0.001), and 2-year aseptic loosening (0.79% vs. 2.73%, p = 0.005). RT patients also had lower rates of ED visits and hospital readmissions. Compared to ESRD patients and RT candidates, patients with RT have a significantly lower likelihood of medical complications, PJI, aseptic hardware loosening, ED visits, and hospital readmission. Patients with ESRD on the RT waiting list should delay THA until after RT surgery. For those not eligible for RT, it is vital to take extra precautions to reduce the risk of complications.

Renal Transplantation in Rare Monogenic Urinary Stone Disease – A Single-center Experience

Introduction: Monogenic urinary stone disease (MUSD) tends to be more severe with early onset of symptoms and a higher risk of chronic kidney disease than sporadic USD. The literature on the outcome after renal transplant in patients with certain MUSD is scarce. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective single-center observational study conducted in a tertiary care renal transplant unit in North India between 2018 and 2021. The renal transplant recipients who developed an end-stage renal disease (ESRD) due to renal calculus disease/nephrocalcinosis were included in the study. All the patients presented to us in an anuric state, and hence, a 24-h urine metabolic profile could not be performed. Ear, nose, and throat and ophthalmological evaluations were done to rule out extrarenal manifestations. These patients were subjected to genetic analysis, i.e., clinical exome sequencing using next-generation sequencing. Results: Out of 283 live renal transplants, 11 patients developed ESRD due to nephrocalcinosis/renal calculus disease. Out of 11, only 4 had genetic mutations and the rest did not have any identifiable genetic mutations. The gene mutations were identified in ADCY10, CLDN16, CaSR, and SLC3A4. The patient with ADCY10 mutation had a strong family history. The clinical phenotype and in silico parameters analysis predicted the variant to be damaging except the one with CaSR mutation which causes Hypocalciuric hypercalcemia syndrome, type 1. Three of four underwent surgical intervention at younger age. All underwent successful live-related renal transplantation, with good graft function on follow-up, without any recurrence of calculus in the allograft. Conclusion: Renal transplantation can be safely proceeded in patients with the above monogenic mutations. Genetic analysis should be a part of pretransplant evaluation in young onset nephrolithiasis and end-stage kidney disease patients to look for a monogenic cause, to assess the risk of recurrence postrenal transplant.

Assessment of body composition by dual-energy X-Ray absorptiometry in renal transplant patients, hemodialysis patients, and a control group of healthy subjects

BackgroundThe clinical findings of patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), which is characterized by malnutrition, sedentary lifestyle, uremia, and catabolism associated with dialysis produce changes in Body Composition (BC), causing increased Fat Mass (FM), decreased in both Lean Mass (LM) and Body Mineral Density (BMD), even despite uremic reversal after a Kidney Transplant (KT); immunosuppressive medications alter BC, increasing the risk of loss of the kidney transplant and cardiovascular diseases. ObjectiveTo demonstrate whether there are differences in BC between a group of patients with KT and a group of patients on Hemodialysis (HD), when comparing them with a control group without the disease. Materials and methodsIn the present observational study, with a comparative design; 125 patients were evaluated (46 with KT, 47 on HD, and 32 from the healthy control group). The BC was evaluated with the full-body Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) method. ResultsThe mean age and standard deviation (X±SD) of the study subjects were: 28.89 ± 5.76, 27.39 ± 5.04, and 29.63 ± 6.34 years for the HD, KT, and control subjects, respectively. The HD patients presented a total FM of 14.98 ± 6.96 kg in comparison with 20.1 ± 6.5 kg for the control group (p = 0.007), and 19.06 ± 7.94 kg for the group with KT (p = 0.02). The total LM was lower in the KT patients in comparison with the control group (p = 0.023). The content and total BMD were lower in both groups of patients with KT and HD. ConclusionsAlthough a comprehensive improvement in BC was expected after kidney transplantation, the results are not close to “normal’ values, when compared with those of healthy subjects of the same age.

Nephrology: what's new in 2023

Molecules such as sparsentan and budesonide look promising to treat proteinuric IGA nephropathy. SLGT2 inhibitors have a prominent place in nephroprotection and could be used in the treatment of acute kidney injury due to heart failure as well. High volume hemodiafiltration compared to hemodialysis improves survival in dialysis patients. Lessening dialysate temperature does not improve hemodynamic stability during the dialysis session. Sodium bicarbonate does not seem to protect renal function in renal transplant patients. SGLT2 inhibitors may have a beneficial effect in these patients in terms of nephroprotection.

The relationship between CD3+ and CD4+ T lymphocyte ratio and rejection &amp; infection in renal transplantation patients

The relationship between CD3+ and CD4+ T lymphocyte ratio and rejection &amp; infection in renal transplantation patients

Role of Octreotide and Instillation of Povidone-Iodine in the Treatment of Lymphorrhea in Renal Transplantation: A Comparative Study

Background: Lymphorrhea is a minor complication after kidney transplantation but may develop into a lymphocele and prolong hospital stay. Treatment is conservative based on percutaneous drainage until lymphatic leakage cessation. It has been reported that povidone iodine instillation and octreotide has beneficial effects to treat lymphorrhea after renal transplantation. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the povidone iodine instillation and octreotide treatment in lymphorrea after kidney transplantation. To evaluate the efficacy of povidone iodine and octreotide injection in comparison to control group for the treatment of lymphorrhea in renal transplant patient. Materials and Methods: It was comparative analytical study included 60 recipients of both cadaveric and live kidney allografts with posttransplant lymphorrhea including 20 treated with instillation of betadine solution, 20 with octreotide (0.1 mg three times a day subcutaneously), and 20 was control group (no betadine and octreotide was used). We reviewed the daily amount of fluid collection, duration of lymphorrhea, complications, lymphocele formation, rejection episodes, graft outcomes, and hospital stay. Results: The average duration of lymphorrhea was (8.85 ± 0.88) and (11.6 ± 0.94) and (16.15 ± 0.81) days for the betadine groups, the octreotide groups and control groups respectively. (P &lt; 0.05). No lymphoceles occurred among the betadine group, while three lymphoceles were found among patients treated with octreotide and five lymphocele were found among control groups. No differences were observed for wound infection, graft dysfunction episodes or renal function and death between the groups. No octreotide and povidone related adverse events were noted. Conclusion: The mean length of lymphorrhea was lower with povidone iodine instillation as compared to octreotide treatment. There was a shorter hospital stay and minor patient discomfort in betadine groups. In conclusion, lymphatic leakage after kidney transplantation may be successfully managed by betadine instillation as compared to octreotide and control groups.

The Spectrum of Ocular Manifestations among Renal Transplant Recipients

Purpose: The study aims to report various ocular manifestations among renal transplant recipients. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted on renal transplant patients, with at least 4 months of posttransplant duration, attending a nephrology clinic. A comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation was performed to record various ocular manifestations. The statistical association between ocular findings and pretransplant as well as posttransplant duration was assessed. Results: One hundred and twenty-three eyes of 62 patients, with a mean age of 37.6 ± 8.2 years and functional graft, were included in the study. Diabetic nephropathy was found to be the most common underlying cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and renal transplant. Hypertensive retinopathy (37.4%) was found to be the most frequent ophthalmic manifestation, followed by diabetic retinopathy (24.39%), dry eye (22.76%), cataract (18.69%), and change in refractive error (17.89%). The occurrence of hypertensive retinopathy and refractive power change was found to be significantly associated with pretransplant dialysis duration. In contrast, concerning the posttransplant period, the frequency of all the major ocular manifestations, except the dry eye, was observed to be statistically significant. Conclusion: Patients with ESRD and renal transplant should be advised to undergo regular comprehensive eye examinations. Many ocular manifestations are preventable and/or treatable, thus interdisciplinary partnership between nephrologists and ophthalmologists is warranted to improve vision and quality of life in transplant recipients.

Sleep Quality and Nocturia in Renal Transplant Patients

Sleep Quality and Nocturia in Renal Transplant Patients

Diuretic Use in Post-Kidney Transplant Patients: A Retrospective Chart Review

The occurrence of delayed graft function (DGF) significantly enhances the possibility of both acute and chronic rejection of the transplanted organ, thereby reducing patient quality of life and survival rates. To prevent and manage oliguria in renal transplant patients, loop diuretics are presently commonly used. In our study, we assessed the possible impact of furosemide on the incidence of DGF among kidney transplant recipients. A review of medical records was conducted to examine demographic characteristics and kidney transplant outcomes in an adult (older than 18 years old) population. The primary objective was to determine the incidence of delayed graft function (DGF), whereas the secondary objective was to compare the creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at day 30 and day 90 post-transplantation in patients who were administered furosemide vs those who were not. This study included 330 patients who underwent kidney transplantation. Furosemide was administered to 169 (51.3%), whereas 161(48.7%) patients did not receive continued dose of diuretic postoperatively. The rate of DGF was significantly higher in patients who received furosemide than in those who did not (furosemide 44% vs 4%; P < .001). The eGFR was lower in the furosemide group compared to the no furosemide group at day 30 (56 ± 24 vs 71 ± 24 mL/min/1.73 m2, P < .001) and day 90 (66 ± 27 vs 78 ± 25 mL/min/1.73 m2, P < .001). Our results show that there is no benefit in treating an oliguric AKI with furosemide. Administration of furosemide, especially in high doses, may increase the risk of toxicity, delay dialysis, and increase the length of stay.

To treat or not to treat asymptomatic bacteriuria in renal transplant patients, A systematic review

Background: Antibiotic therapy as a preventative measure for asymptomatic bacteriuria (AB) in kidney recipients can be beneficial in reducing subsequent symptomatic infections. Treating AB and acute graft pyelonephritis is crucial for reducing the risk of graft rejection after kidney transplantation, However, the effectiveness of antibiotics in these cases is still debate in the medical community. Objectives: This review aims to determine the benefits and risks of treating AB in kidney transplant recipients with antimicrobial agents to prevent symptomatic urinary tract infection (UTI) and all-cause mortality. Methods: The review included 10 articles published form January 2010 to January 2021 which examined the effectiveness of treating AB after renal transplantation. Results: AB treatment with antibiotics was found to have no benefit in all reviewed studies, as antibiotic treatment of AB increase the emergence of more resistant organisms in urine. During the months of follow-up, it was also a risk factor for UTI. Conclusion: Sufficient evidence has shown that AB treatment with antibiotics does not provide any significant benefit in the short and long term. Giving these findings, considering other important treatment options is vital to improve clinical outcome for this condition.

Avaliação de parâmetros periodontais em pacientes transplantados renais que usam medicações imunossupressoras: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate periodontal parameters in renal transplant patients compared to a control group, due to the possible interference caused by the use of immunosuppressive medication. Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational epidemiological study of 80 patients. The transplant patients consisted of 40 patients, in whom the plaque index, clinical probing depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing and the presence of gingival hyperplasia were analyzed. The control group, made up of 40 patients, was assessed according to the same indices. Results: No statistically significant difference was found between the groups with regard to the presence of plaque (p = 0.279), bleeding (p = 0.262), severity (p = 0.707) and location (p = 0.949) of periodontitis, only in relation to the grade (p = 0.041), where grade C was more present in transplant patients, with transplant time being a contributing factor. The presence of hyperplasia (p = 0.021), the gingival bleeding index (p = 0.011) and the plaque index (p = 0.031) were significantly higher in patients taking Ciclosporin. transplant patients had rapidly progressing periodontitis. Conclusion: Increased gingival volume, bleeding and plaque index were more associated with Ciclosporin use.

Ocular Findings among the Patients of Renal Transplantation.

Renal diseases are on rise globally due to increased incidence of non-communicable diseases as well as primary-kidney diseases and frequent use of nephrotoxic drugs. Only definite treatment of End-Stage-RenalDisease (ESRD) is renal transplantation. Immuno-suppressive-drugs are prescribed lifelong after renal transplantation especially steroids which can lead to various sight-threatening complications. This cross sectional, observational study included 62 eyes of 31 patients who had undergone renal transplantation, at least 3 months prior were referred from Nephrology Department. Comprehensive eye evaluation was done at B. P. Koirala Lions Centre for Ophthalmic Studies (BPKLCOS), Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Medicine. The average age of participants was 37 ±10.57 years with 77.4 % (n=24) male. Mean duration of renal transplant was 5.10 ± 3.61 years. Fifty-eight percent (n=18) had hypertensive kidney disease. Diabetes Kidney disease, recurrent UTI, CKD of unknown causes and combined case of diabetes plus hypertension were seen in 6.4% (n=2) each. Sixty percent of the patients had some kind of ocular involvement. Twenty-nine percent (n=18) had subnormal visual acuity of ≤ 6/9. Cataract was seen in 29% (n=18) of eyes followed by pinguecula (17.7%, n=11) and hypertensive-retinopathy (17.7%, n=11). Glaucoma and Diabetic-retinopathy were seen only in 6.4% (n= 4) of each eyes. There was no association seen between ocular findings with cause of renal transplant, duration of transplant and renal function status in bivariate analysis. Some form of ocular abnormality is commonly seen in patients of renal transplantation who are on immunosuppressive drugs. However, incidence of sight threatening complications are rare.

Early surgical complications in kidney transplant recipients- A single center study

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is becoming a significant global public health issue. The preferred course of treatment for people with ESRD is kidney transplantation, although its associated surgical complications raise serious doubts about the success rate of the procedure. Renal transplant surgical complications are frequently observed and can significantly affect graft performance, survival, and patient morbidity. This study aimed to analyze the frequency of early surgical complications, diagnoses, and treatment options in renal transplant patients. This retrospective cohort study included all transplanted patients with surgical complications from April 2017 to April 2022 at the Renal Transplant Unit of the Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan. Out of 500 kidney transplant recipients, 86 patients (17.2%) experienced early post-transplant surgical complications. The most common complication was Lymphorrea (n=38, 7.6%) followed by wound infection (n=25 patients, 5%). The occurrence of these complications was associated with delayed graft function, indicating the need for careful monitoring and timely intervention in these cases. Future studies are needed to explore the predictors and risk factors of surgical complications in kidney transplantation and to identify strategies for reducing the incidence and improving the outcomes of these complications.

Histological predictors of outcome for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in renal transplant patients: A case-control study

BackgroundCutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a significant cause of morbidity for immunosuppressed patients such as organ transplant recipients, however histological parameters which predict the likelihood of tumor progression are typically based on general population studies in which immunosuppressed patients represent only a small fraction of cases. ObjectivesTo determine the histological parameters which have independent prognostic value for cSCC arising in renal transplant recipients. MethodsCase-control study incorporating a retrospective blinded histological review of 70 archived specimens of cSCC diagnosed in renal transplant recipients, comprising 10 cases where the tumor had progressed and 60 controls. ResultsProgression was significantly associated with head and neck location, size, depth, poor histological grade, perineural invasion (including small calibre perineural invasion), lymphovascular invasion and a desmoplastic growth pattern. LimitationsThe retrospective nature and the low number of cases compared to controls. ConclusionIn immunosuppressed patients both small calibre perineural invasion and a desmoplastic growth pattern may also have prognostic significance in addition to other histological parameters already recognised in formal staging schemes.