title: Blood transfusions before and on the day of transplantation: effects on cadaver graft survival.
abstract: Pre-BTs significantly improve the survival rate for first cadaver transplants, by a mechanism that remains obscure. The maximal influence is seen with smaller numbers of pre-BTs (1-5 units), but is also observed with larger numbers of pre-BTs. The possible beneficial influence of Tx-BTs on graft survival is not proven, and if it exists at all is not nearly as striking as the effect seen with pre-BTs. Tx-BTs neither potentiate nor nullify the benefit of pre-BTs on graft survival. It is therefore recommended that pre-BTs in smaller numbers, such as 1-5 units, be administered to candidates for first cadaver transplants to increase the probability of a successful outcome. Tx-BTs should be utilized when clinically indicated but not with the expectation that they will necessarily improve graft survival.
mesh_terms: D000961:Antilymphocyte Serum; D001803:Blood Transfusion; D002102:Cadaver; D006085:Graft Survival; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000276:immunology; D016030:Kidney Transplantation; D011300:Preoperative Care
chemical_list: D000961:Antilymphocyte Serum