Spectrum of Infections in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single Centre Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Export Introduction: Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have to receive lifelong immunosuppressive therapy. Consequently, they are predisposed to life-threatening infections. A detailed review regarding the spectrum of infections is necessary for adequate management. Materials and Methods: In this single high-volume center, we present data of 100 KTRs, who presented to us with signs of infections. Results: The majority of the patients were male with a median age of 47 years and the median duration of follow-up was 41 months. Comorbidities were present in the majority of patients in the form of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Among infections before kidney transplant, tuberculosis (28%), hepatitis C virus (11%), and hepatitis B virus (1%) were the predominant ones. During follow-up, 57% of patients presented to us with at least one episode of infection. The first episode of infection occurred after a median duration of 127 days. The most common infections were urinary tract infection, acute gastroenteritis, cytomegalovirus infections, pneumonia, pyelonephritis, surgical site infections, protozoal infections, and viral and other infections. Most of the infections were managed successfully; however, 7% of patients had graft dysfunction and are on maintenance hemodialysis. Conclusion: Infections in KTRs are a predominant cause of mortality. Prompt and aggressive treatment is warranted for patient survival.