Complications of renal transplantation in patients with amyloidosis

Renal transplantation in patients with end-stage renal failure (ESRF) secondary to amyloidosis carries a high risk of postoperative complications. Preoperative investigations are crucial for a successful perioperative course. There are limited data studying the outcome of patients with amyloid nephropathy who undergo renal transplantation. Therefore, we undertook this retrospective review of our experience to highlight the difficulties.

Thirteen patients with AA amyloid-induced ESRF underwent cadaveric renal transplantation from 1985 to 2001 in the Irish transplant population. The perioperative course of these patients was compared to an age-matched control group of 142 nonamyloid patients who had cadaveric renal transplantation during the same time period. Both groups were followed annually for 5 years.

The 1- and 5-year patient survival rates were 69% and 69% in the amyloid as compared with 97% and 87% for the control group. In the amyloid group, early death was primarily due to cardiac causes followed by complications of sepsis. Graft survival at 1 and 5 years was 56% and 56% in the amyloid group as compared with 87% and 59% in the control group (P = .0027). Four deaths with a functioning graft contributed to the early graft losses.

Increased complications, especially cardiac, are noted post-renal transplantation among patients with renal amyloidosis. However, appropriate guideline, for the perioperative management of these patients has yet to be established.