Transplant rejection

Alternative names:

graft rejection; tissue/organ rejection

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to maintain the integrity and functioning of the transplanted organ or tissue.

Suppression of the immune response is used for both treatment and prevention of transplant rejection. Corticosteroids such as prednisone are used to reduce the immune response. The dosage may be very high during treatment of acute rejection episodes and then reduced to a lower "maintenance" dose to prevent rejection. Immunosuppressant medications include azathioprine and cyclosporine. Monoclonal antibodies specifically reduce the activity of T lymphocytes, which are the primary immune system cells responsible for transplant rejection. Occasionally, radiation is used to suppress the immune system.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. Some organs and tissues are more successfully transplanted than others. Rejection may be reversed with treatment or may progress despite treatment. Immunosuppression must continue for the rest of the person's life.

Complications:

• loss of function of the transplanted organ/tissue
• side effects of medications, may be severe (see the specific medication)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if transplanted organ or tissue shows reduced function, or other symptoms of transplant rejection occur. Also, call your health care provider if medication side effects develop.