Organ transplantation in the vasculitides.
Despite important therapeutic improvements, permanent organ failure may develop in primary systemic vasculitides and affect the heart, the lungs, and especially the kidneys. In systemic vasculitides associated with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (AASV), end-stage renal failure develops in 20% of cases. Renal transplantation became a beneficial option in these patients, with a graft and patient survival comparable to that in nondiabetic patients. This review summarizes the current knowledge on indications and contraindications for renal transplantation in AASV and discusses the impact of posttransplant immunosuppression on the course of the patients.
Schmitt
Wilhelm H
WH
Vth Medical Clinic (Nephrology, Endocrinology), University-Clinic Mannheim, Faculty of Clinical Medicine of The University of Heidelberg, Germany. wilhelm.schmitt@med5.ma.uni-heidelberg.de
van der Woude
Fokko J
FJ
D019268:Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic / Q000276:immunology*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006085:Graft Survival / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016030:Kidney Transplantation; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D014657:Vasculitis / Q000276:immunology* / Q000628:therapy
D019268:Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents