Erythrocytosis after renal transplantation; treatment by removal of the native kidneys.

Abstract

Erythrocytosis after renal transplantation confers risks of thromboembolic complications and therefore necessitates repeated phlebotomies and/or anticoagulation therapy. Erythropoietin production from the retained native kidneys is one aetiological possibility for this condition. During 1982-1987, 22 patients with renal transplants underwent bilateral nephrectomy because of erythrocytosis with a median duration of 13 months. The median follow-up time was 36 months. After nephrectomy, blood counts returned to normal in all patients; these remained normal in all but two patients, who relapsed with erythrocytosis after 6 and 18 months respectively. Concomitant hypertension was cured or improved in most cases. One patient had a myocardial infarction postoperatively. No other per- or postoperative complications occurred. The mean duration of hospital stay was 7.5 days. We consider bilateral nephrectomy of the native kidneys a safe and effective alternative in the management of post-transplant erythrocytosis.

• Authors: S Friman, G Nyberg, I Blohmé
• Journal: Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association (Nephrol Dial Transplant) Vol. 5 Issue 11 Pg. 969-73 ( 1990) ISSN: 0931-0509 [Print] England
• PMID: 2127835 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Hemoglobins
• Erythropoietin

Topics

• Adult
• Child
• Erythropoietin (blood)
• Hemoglobins (analysis)
• Humans
• Kidney Transplantation (adverse effects)
• Middle Aged
• Nephrectomy
• Polycythemia (etiology, surgery)
• Postoperative Complications
• Reoperation