Immunosuppressive Therapy-Related Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Renal Transplantation: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Cardiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Kidney transplantation improves survival for chronic renal failure but carries a higher mortality risk than the general population.
• Cardiovascular events are the leading cause of death in kidney transplant recipients.
• Immunosuppressive therapy significantly contributes to cardiovascular risk in these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of immunosuppressive treatments on cardiovascular risk factors in kidney transplant recipients.
• To provide an in-depth analysis of how immunosuppression affects cardiovascular health post-transplant.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of scientific articles.
• Literature search conducted in major medical science, transplant, cardiologic, and nephrological journals.

Main Results:

• Immunosuppressive drugs can exacerbate traditional cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, smoking).
• These drugs may also lead to additional risk factors, including proteinuria, anemia, and arterial stiffness.
• The dysmetabolic effects of immunosuppression are a key driver of cardiovascular risk.

Conclusions:

• Immunosuppressive drugs are essential for graft survival and transplant success.
• These medications have significant side effects that increase cardiovascular risk.
• Prescribing immunosuppressants requires careful risk-benefit assessment tailored to individual patient needs.