Immunizations in Chronic Kidney Disease and Kidney Transplantation

Infection is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in both patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and in recipients of a kidney transplant (KT). We review the current data in patients with CKD, on dialysis, and in KT recipients to provide further guidance for clinicians regarding vaccine optimization in this patient population.

This patient population remains under-vaccinated and thus more vulnerable to vaccine-preventable illness. Despite diminished responses to immunization in this population, significant protection is generally achieved.

Vaccines are an important preventative tool and offer protection against infection. In the setting of suboptimal and waning immunity in this patient population, future studies are indicated to determine optimal vaccination regimens.