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Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Murine Heterotopic Heart Transplant Technique
Published on: July 8, 2014
Understanding the pathogenesis and the pathology of hyperacute cardiac rejection
1Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota Medical School and Fairview-University Medical Center, MMC 76, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. rosex031@tc.umn.edu
Insights
The term hyperacute rejection (HAR) is outdated. Researchers recommend using HAR for antibody-mediated rejection within 24 hours, recognizing venous thrombosis
Area of Science:
- Transplantation immunology
- Pathology
- Nephrology
Background:
- The term hyperacute rejection (HAR) is outdated and confusing due to advances in delaying its onset and numerous synonyms.
- Existing terminology does not adequately classify antibody-mediated xenograft rejection based on causative antibodies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose revised terminology for antibody-mediated rejection in transplantation.
- To clarify the definition and timing of hyperacute rejection.
- To emphasize the role of venous thrombosis in HAR pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on hyperacute rejection and xenograft rejection.
- Analysis of pathological findings in transplanted organs, particularly the heart.
- Pathological interpretation based on the role of venous thrombosis in obstructed venous drainage.
Main Results:
- Recommended applying the term hyperacute rejection (HAR) to antibody-mediated rejection occurring within 24 hours.
- Identified delayed HAR as the same pathological process occurring after 24 hours.
- Highlighted the significance of venous thrombosis in HAR pathogenesis and its impact on interpreting organ biopsies.
Conclusions:
- The term hyperacute rejection (HAR) should be reserved for antibody-mediated rejection within 24 hours.
- Understanding venous thrombosis is crucial for interpreting HAR pathology in biopsies.
- A future grading system for HAR may be possible with advancements in xenografting.
Abstract:
The terminology of hyperacute rejection (HAR) has become outmoded and confusing due both to advances that have been made in delaying its onset and due to a proliferation of synonyms for the same pathologic process. Until such time as antibody-mediated xenograft rejection can be classified by the type of causative antibody, it is recommended that the term hyperacute rejection be applied to antibody-mediated rejection with classical HAR occurring within 24 h. Delayed HAR is the same pathologic process encountered after 24 h. Recognition of the key role that venous thrombosis plays in the pathogenesis of HAR allows the microscopist to intelligently interpret biopsies from various portions of a transplanted organ according to the pathologic effects of the obstructed venous drainage of the organ. Particularly in the heart, HAR often shows different pathologic features in the inner compared to the outer myocardium. Once xenografting becomes feasible, it will be possible to apply a grading system of HAR in clinical practice.
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