Modulation of maintenance immunosuppression during infection in renal transplant recipients

Abstract

Infection occurs commonly after renal transplantation, and it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Infections are commonly associated with changes in the white blood cell count; however, it may be masked in the background of immunosuppression. Immunosuppression modulation during infection is crucial, keeping in mind, the risk of rejection on the one hand and risk of severe infection and mortality on the other hand. Idea about timeline of infection after renal transplantation in a particular geographical area is helpful in management of infection. The approach to modulate immunosuppressive agents will vary depending on the severity of infection. Many infections require specific anti-infective agents which may have significant drug interaction with immunosuppressive agents. It may also necessitate stoppage of immunosuppression either temporarily or permanently in severe infections to salvage the life of the patient.

Keywords

• Anti-infective agent
• immunosuppression
• infection
• renal transplantation
• white blood cell count