Indian Journal of Transplantation (Jan 2022)

Epidemiology, risk factors, and major outcomes in post kidney transplant infections at National Hospital Kandy: A cross-sectional, pilot study

  • M A Ayesha Nayanamali,
  • A M Muditha Piyumali Athapaththu,
  • B M Duminda Bandara Basnayake,
  • T G Nadeeka Shyamali Gunarathne,
  • Abdul W M. Wazil,
  • R M Buddhisha S. S. Mahanama,
  • Brammah U E W D R Thangarajah,
  • Nishantha Nanayakkara

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4103/ijot.ijot_132_20
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16, no. 1
pp. 77 – 83

Abstract

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Background: Postkidney transplant (PKT) infections are associated with significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the early posttransplant period. The type of infection, associated risk factors, and predicted outcomes of the infections are essential for targeted appropriate management. Scientific published data, especially in local settings, are lacking. This study was conducted to assess the epidemiology, risk factors, and major outcomes of PKT infections requiring hospitalization. Methods: This was a prospective observational study, conducted at the Nephrology and Transplant Unit, National Hospital Kandy, Sri Lanka, for a period of 2 months from December 1, 2018, to January 30, 2019. Results: A total of 38 infectious episodes were recorded in 35 kidney recipients. The most common type of infection was urinary tract infection (UTI) noted in 36.6% (n = 14) of cases. The most frequent organisms isolated were coliform (7.9%, n = 3). Seven potential risk factors including age, gender, comorbidities, source of kidney, induction modality, enhancement therapy, and months after renal transplant were evaluated. Among those potential risk factors, age was significantly associated with gastrointestinal tract infections (P = 0.033). There was a significant association between the gender and the severity of infections (P = 0.047). Majority of patients discharged from the hospital following complete recovery. Three patients were offered intensive care, two developed acute renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy and one was expired. Conclusion: The most common type of infection in PKT patients is UTI. Patient's age is significantly associated with gastrointestinal infections. Large-scale studies warrant for adequately concluding risk factors, epidemiology, and outcomes.

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