Solid Organ Transplant Rejection

Organ transplant rejection occurs when a transplanted organ is rejected by the recipient’s immune system, which views the organ as an invader. Solid organ transplant rejection occurs when a kidney, heart, liver, or any other solid organ is rejected by the recipient’s body. This situation can be a life-threatening medical emergency.

Solid organ transplants can be rejected for many reasons. These include a mismatch between donor and recipient tissue, a previous organ transplant, or a previous transplant that failed to take. Immunosuppressive drugs, which are used to prevent organ rejection, can also be a factor.

Signs of organ transplant rejection include:

Fever
Pain or discomfort at the transplant site
Decreased urine flow
Decrease in blood pressure
Increased heart rate
Jaundice
Swelling of the transplanted organ

If transplant rejection is suspected, the recipient should see a doctor immediately. Tests such as blood work, biopsy, ultrasound, and imaging studies may be performed to diagnose the issue. Treatment for organ transplant rejection may include medications such as antirejection drugs, immunosuppressive drugs, or even surgery to remove the transplanted organ.

Managing transplant rejection is an ongoing process. It is important to follow all instructions from the doctor and take the medications prescribed. Doing so will help to minimize the risk of organ transplant rejection.