Effect of local irradiation on the acute rejection process in transplanted kidneys

The graft in 178 renal transplant patients was irradiated in an effort to halt acute rejection phenomena. Of the patients, 61 per cent received their transplant from either a sibling, parent or child and 38 per cent received cadaveric kidneys. Of the irradiated kidneys 61 per cent were functioning at 6 months, 58 per cent at 12 months and 49 per cent at 18 months. The rational for irradiation of transplanted kidneys with acute rejection is discussed.