Analysis of COVID-19 Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Thamiris Quiqueto Marinelli ¹, Heloisa Cristina Caldas ¹, Maria Alice Sperto Ferreira-Baptista ¹

⁰Laboratory of Immunology and Experimental Transplantation (LITEX) at Medical School of Sao Jose do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São Jose do Rio Preto, SP 15090-000, Brazil; Organ Transplantation Center, Hospital de Base, FUNFARME, Sao Jose do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.

Transplantation Proceedings +

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May 17, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

COVID-19 significantly increased morbidity and mortality in renal transplant recipients (RTx) in Brazil. Severe COVID-19 cases in RTx patients led to a higher lethality rate and increased serum creatinine levels.

Area Of Science

Nephrology
Infectious Diseases
Transplantation Immunology

Background

Renal transplant recipients (RTx) face higher risks of morbidity and mortality from COVID-19.
SARS-CoV-2 infection poses a significant threat to immunocompromised populations like RTx.

Purpose Of The Study

To assess the impact of COVID-19 on renal transplant recipients.
To analyze clinical outcomes and mortality rates in Brazilian RTx patients post-COVID-19.

Main Methods

A cohort of 135 RTx patients was evaluated from December 2019 to June 2021.
Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected and analyzed.
Donor characteristics were also considered, especially for deceased donors with COVID-19.

Main Results

Diabetic RTx and those from extended criterion donors were more prone to severe COVID-19.
Increased serum creatinine (sCr) levels post-COVID-19 correlated with disease severity.
The lethality rate was substantially higher in severe COVID-19 cases (65%) versus mild cases (1.5%).

Conclusions

Disease severity directly impacted sCr levels and lethality in RTx patients.
The overall COVID-19 lethality rate among RTx was 26.6%, which is 10-20 times higher than in the general population.
Rigorous monitoring, prompt diagnosis, and preventative strategies are essential for managing COVID-19 in RTx.