Improved results in high risk cadaveric kidney transplantation.

In general, cadaver kidney transplantation survival remains at 40-50% for the first year after transplantation. To compare the beneficial effect of a new immunosuppressive protocol to standard therapy (azathioprine and prednisone), we have studied 30 high risk first cadaveric renal allograft recipients who were randomly selected before (Group A, n=15) and after (Group B, n=15) 10/79. At 12 mos, actuarial graft survival of Group B is 75% compared to 46% in Group A. Actuarial patient survival for Group B is 94% for one year compared to 60% in Group A. We feel that these improved results are related to basic changes in our immunosuppressive protocol. These changes consist of: 1. Low doses of azathioprine and prednisolone (less than 1 mg/kg) with rapid reduction to very low levels (less than 0.3 mg/kg); 2. ALG administration at 30 mg/kg/day for 14 times; 3. Rapid placement (one month) on alternate day steroid therapy; 4. Elimination of steroids for the treatment of rejection; 5. Use of ALG (20 mg/kg/day for 10 days) for the treatment of rejection; 6. Use of ALG combined with modified lymph node irradiation for third rejection episodes; and 7. Long-term intermittent ALG administration provided that kidney function continues to be normal. The best immunosuppressive protocol is clearly the one associated with less morbidity and improved quality of life after transplantation. Our current protocol (Group B) provides the best results.