title: Measurement of mycophenolate mofetil plasma levels after heart transplantation and a potential side effect of high levels.
abstract: Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is gaining momentum in its use as an immunosuppressant and in the field of heart transplantation because of its efficacy and ease of use without a reported need to monitor plasma levels. We describe a case in which standard dosage of MMF (initially 1.5 g twice daily) produced elevated trough levels of mycophenolic acid (MPA). Although organ rejection was eradicated by the use of MMF, the patient developed severe anemia, which required repeated blood transfusions while the patient was on therapy. This case illustrates the potential value of monitoring MPA concentrations.
authors.affiliation: Transplant Unit, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust, Harefield Hospital, Middlesex, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: S W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Dubrey
authors.forename: D W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Holt
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Banner
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002311:Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / Q000601:surgery; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006084:Graft Rejection / Q000517:prevention & control; D016027:Heart Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000097:blood*; D008297:Male; D009173:Mycophenolic Acid / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000097:blood
chemical_list: D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D009173:Mycophenolic Acid