title: Current strategy for donor-specific blood transfusions including a pre- and post transplant role for azathioprine.
abstract: The optimal use of the DST protocol has been defined with a preference for the protocol in patients undergoing a first transplant with a low pre-DST PRA. Azathioprine coverage during DST administration in this group assures a low sensitization rate. In addition, a posttransplant immunosuppressive protocol is introduced that includes very low-dosage P and Cs therapy along with limited-dose Aza. Preliminary results appear to indicate that this may possibly further improve graft survival; but, most importantly, it will reduce problems and complications associated with steroid and Cs therapy.
authors.affiliation: Transplant Service, University of California, San Francisco 94143-0116.
authors.forename: O
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Salvatierra
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001379:Azathioprine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001803:Blood Transfusion / Q000379:methods; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003524:Cyclosporins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006085:Graft Survival / Q000187:drug effects; D006650:Histocompatibility Testing; D006801:Humans; D007518:Isoantibodies / Q000096:biosynthesis; D008875:Middle Aged; D009928:Organ Specificity; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000401:mortality / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011300:Preoperative Care; D014019:Tissue Donors
chemical_list: D003524:Cyclosporins; D007518:Isoantibodies; D001379:Azathioprine