[Cancer in kidney transplant recipients]

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in kidney transplant recipients, after cardiovascular diseases. These patients are at least twice as likely to develop cancer or die from a cancer as the general population. This increased risk is multifactorial and mainly attributed to oncogenic viruses and immunosuppression. Transplant candidates and kidney donors should be screened for cancer as part of the evaluation process. Waiting periods after remission are recommended, depending on the type of cancer and stage. Cancer screening after transplantation should be tailored to each patient. If a cancer is diagnosed, treatment includes conventional approaches, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, as well as modification of the immunosuppressive regimen.