Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 19, 2025
Modified Heterotopic Hindlimb Osteomyocutaneous Flap Model in the Rat for Translational Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation Research
Published on: April 26, 2019
Renal allograft arterial mucormycosis presenting with recurrent vascular blowout
Vishal Singh1, A K Dabas2, Pulkit Singh3
1Head of Department & Senior Advisor (Medicine & Nephrology), Army Hospital (R&R), Delhi Cantt, India.
Abstract:
Infections, both traditional and opportunistic, constitute a major cause of morbidity and mortality in kidney transplant recipients. Mucorales, ubiquitous environmental fungi, is the cause for a rare but devastating opportunistic infection. Here, we describe a patient with an unusual mucor infection involving the graft kidney and the graft renal artery who, following a deceased donor kidney transplantation, presented in the early posttransplantation period with a vascular blowout and massive hemorrhage. Prompt aggressive resuscitation and surgical intervention saved his life; however, the renal allograft could not be preserved. The key to success in such a life-threatening atypical presentation includes a high index of suspicion, early recognition, and prompt therapeutic intervention.
Insights
A rare fungal infection, mucormycosis, can devastate kidney transplants. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for survival in kidney transplant recipients experiencing this severe complication.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Transplantation Immunology
Background:
- Kidney transplant recipients face significant risks from opportunistic infections.
- Mucorales are ubiquitous environmental fungi capable of causing severe, rare infections.
Observation:
- A kidney transplant recipient developed an unusual mucormycosis infection affecting the graft kidney and renal artery.
- The patient presented with a life-threatening vascular blowout and massive hemorrhage early post-transplantation.
Findings:
- Prompt resuscitation and surgical intervention were critical in saving the patient's life.
- Despite aggressive management, the renal allograft could not be preserved due to the extensive infection.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of a high index of suspicion for atypical infections in transplant patients.
- Emphasizes the need for early recognition and rapid therapeutic intervention in managing life-threatening post-transplant complications.
- Underscores the devastating potential of mucormycosis in immunocompromised individuals, particularly kidney transplant recipients.
