[Cellular rejection in kidney transplant. Results of a national survey in Argentina].

INTRODUCTION

Acute T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) continues to be a major cause of graft dysfunction and loss despite advances in diagnostic methods and immunosuppression. Clinical practices regarding the treatment and follow-up of TCMR differ widely across transplant centers. The aim of our study was to describe current practices in Argentina concerning protocol biopsies, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of TCMR in kidney transplant patients.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A national survey was conducted, promoted by the Sociedad Argentina de Trasplantes. All 58 certified kidney transplant centers in the country were invited to participate. The questionnaire, based on international surveys and adapted by local experts, explored the clinical strategies used to address TCMR.

RESULTS

Forty-nine centers responded (84% response rate), showing high variability in the frequency of biopsies -including protocol biopsies- in the therapeutic regimens used, and in the definitions of borderline rejection and corticosteroid resistance.

CONCLUSION

There is a notable heterogeneity in the management of TCMR among transplant centers in Argentina. Reaching consensus on definitions and therapeutic strategies will be essential to improve homogeneity of care and comparability across studies in our transplant centers.