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Impact of mycophenolate mofetil on wound complications and lymphoceles after kidney transplantation
Kai Lopau1, Karin Syamken, Peter Rubenwolf
1Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Nephrology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany. lopau_k@klinik.uni-wuerzburg.de
Background/Aims:
Despite improved efficacy, modern immunosuppressive agents may show unanticipated side effects. In this study we investigated the possible interactions of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) with wound healing and lymphocele formation.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective single-center analysis in 144 patients receiving a cyclosporine A-based immunosuppression with prednisolone and either MMF (n = 77) or azathioprine (AZA, n = 77). Endpoints were incidences of lymphocele formation and non-primary wound healing during 6 months' follow-up.
Results:
AZA-treated patients had more rejection episodes and consecutively more steroid pulses, both being potential risk factors for endpoints. No graft was lost in any group and graft function was comparable. AZA patients demonstrated a trend for more frequent wound infections. Fluid accumulation around the graft, however, was more frequent in the MMF group (OR = 2.6; p = 0.03). Consequently, more drainage maneuvers (17 vs. 5 interventions) and sclerotherapies (8 vs. 0 interventions) were undertaken in MMF patients. Pre-assigned risk factors for lymphoceles reported before did not differ between both cohorts; patients experiencing acute rejection episodes had even less symptomatic lymphoceles (n = 23).
Conclusion:
We found a possible relationship between the administration of MMF and lymphocele formation. To avoid the hazard of reinterventions, the prolongation of hospitalization and impairment of graft function, it requires awareness and attention in patients treated with this immunosuppressant.
Insights
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) use in transplant patients was linked to increased lymphocele formation compared to azathioprine (AZA). This finding highlights potential risks associated with MMF, necessitating careful patient monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Transplantation immunology
- Surgical outcomes
- Pharmacovigilance
Background:
- Modern immunosuppressive agents, while effective, can present unexpected side effects.
- Investigating the impact of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) on wound healing and lymphocele formation is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the incidence of lymphocele formation and non-primary wound healing between patients treated with MMF and azathioprine (AZA).
- To identify potential risks associated with MMF in post-transplant care.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective single-center analysis of 144 patients on cyclosporine A-based immunosuppression.
- Patients received either MMF (n=77) or AZA (n=77) alongside prednisolone.
- Endpoints included lymphocele formation and non-primary wound healing over 6 months.
Main Results:
- The MMF group showed a significantly higher incidence of fluid accumulation around the graft (lymphoceles) compared to the AZA group (OR=2.6, p=0.03).
- MMF patients required more interventions for fluid collection, including drainage and sclerotherapy.
- No significant difference in graft loss or function was observed; AZA patients had a trend towards more wound infections.
Conclusions:
- A potential association exists between MMF administration and increased lymphocele formation.
- Awareness and monitoring are essential for patients on MMF to mitigate risks like reinterventions and prolonged hospitalization.
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