Acute Rejection
Overview
Acute rejection is a significant complication that can occur after organ transplantation. It is a process where the recipient's immune system identifies the transplanted organ as foreign and attempts to eliminate it. This reaction can lead to organ dysfunction and failure if not promptly and adequately managed read more.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of acute rejection involves complex interactions between the recipient's immune system and the transplanted organ. The immune response is primarily mediated by T cells, which recognize antigens present on the surface of cells in the transplanted organ read more. These antigens are identified as foreign, leading to an immune response characterized by inflammation and tissue damage.
Clinical Features
The clinical features of acute rejection can vary depending on the type of organ transplanted. However, common symptoms often include pain at the transplant site, fever, and organ dysfunction. In some cases, acute rejection may be asymptomatic and only detected through routine monitoring of organ function read more.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of acute rejection typically involves a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Biopsy of the transplanted organ may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of rejection read more.
Treatment
Treatment of acute rejection primarily involves immunosuppressive therapy to reduce the immune response against the transplanted organ. This may include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and other immunosuppressive agents read more. In severe cases, plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin may be used.
Prognosis
The prognosis of acute rejection depends on several factors, including the type of organ transplanted, the severity of rejection, and the response to treatment. With prompt and appropriate treatment, many cases of acute rejection can be successfully managed, and the transplanted organ can continue to function effectively read more.
Prevention
Prevention of acute rejection involves the use of immunosuppressive therapy to reduce the risk of the recipient's immune system attacking the transplanted organ. This typically includes a combination of drugs that are started before the transplant and continued indefinitely afterwards read more.