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Transmission of cancer with cadaveric donor kidneys
H Oesterwitz1, K Lucius, W Blank
1Department of Urology, Hospital Friedrichshain, Berlin, GDR.
International Urology and Nephrology
|January 1, 1990
Abstract:
From 3 donors suffering from extracerebral cancer 5 kidneys have been transplanted. All grafts functioned well without tumour signs up to 21 months after transplantation. However, because of tumour recurrence in nearly 50% of the cases recorded in the Cincinnati Transplant Tumor Registry, generally organs from donors suffering from cancer should not be used.
Insights
Kidney transplants from cancer patients can function well initially. However, due to high rates of tumor recurrence, using these organs for transplantation is generally not recommended.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Oncology
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- Organ transplantation is a critical treatment for end-stage renal disease.
- The use of organs from donors with a history of cancer presents a complex ethical and clinical dilemma.
- Previous data suggests potential risks associated with using cancer patient organs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the short-term outcomes of kidney grafts from donors with extracerebral cancer.
- To assess the risk of tumor recurrence in recipients of such grafts.
- To inform guidelines regarding organ donation from cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of kidney transplant cases.
- Inclusion of data from donors with extracerebral malignancies.
- Long-term follow-up of graft function and recipient health, specifically monitoring for tumor recurrence.
Main Results:
- Five kidney grafts from three donors with extracerebral cancer were transplanted.
- All transplanted kidneys functioned well, showing no signs of tumor in the grafts up to 21 months post-transplantation.
- Existing literature, including the Cincinnati Transplant Tumor Registry, indicates a nearly 50% rate of tumor recurrence in similar cases.
Conclusions:
- While initial graft function can be positive, the significant risk of tumor recurrence necessitates caution.
- Organs from donors with cancer should generally be avoided in transplantation to prioritize recipient safety.
- Further research may be needed to refine criteria for organ donation from cancer patients, but current evidence suggests a high risk.