Serum creatinine as a predictor of transplant survival and death

Taking ALL patients transplanted in a given calendar year, we have shown that serum creatinine values have gradually decreased over the past 15 years. Donor age was a major factor influencing serum creatinine. This was followed by the recipient sex. Of lesser importance was the different immunosuppressive drugs employed, and whether the donor was deceased or living. The strong predictive value of serum creatinine was shown at various times after transplantation. Also, one year prior to failure, the creatinine values were very significantly elevated. A similar finding was noted one year prior to the death of patients with a functioning graft.