Cell-mediated immunity during RDT and the outcome of transplantation

Previous studies have demonstrated depression of cell-mediated immunity (CMI) in uraemia. We have measured CMI in a group of 248 patients on regular dialysis using a quantitative dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) skin test which gives a score of 0 to 15. Ninety-eight of these patients subsequently had first cadaver transplants and the relationship between the DNCB score and graft survival has been examined. Graft survival was found to decline progressively with higher DNCB scores. Blood transfusion also had a major influence on graft survival and the relation between the DNCB score and outcome was observed in all the blood transfusion groups.