[Effect of plasmapheresis in kidney transplantation--a controlled study]

Until recently it has been controversial whether plasmapheresis is benefitial in graft rejection therapy. Here we present a controlled trial in 44 kidney transplanted patients with biopsy proven acute vascular rejection and specific anti-HLA-antibodies. 23 randomized patients were treated additionally with plasmaexchange (group A), whereas the remaining 21 received drug therapy only (group B). 7 out of 23 (30%) lost their graft in group A and 17 out of 21 (81%) in group B. Mean serum creatinine and actuarial graft survival underline the significant effect of plasmaexchange therapy which appears especially benefitial when rejection occurs later than one month after surgery.