[The effect of the complement system on the acute reversible rejection of kidney transplants].

Abstract

Although the involvement of complement in hyperacute renal allograft rejection is well established, its possible implication in acute reversible and chronic graft rejection remains uncertain. In recent clinical studies with a total of 83 patients undergoing renal transplantation, plasma levels of complement activation products were elevated 4-7 days before clinical diagnosis of graft rejection. Immunohistochemical analysis of biopsies revealed local complement activation with glomerular deposition of the terminal C5b-9 complex within 1 h after organ reperfusion. Increasing levels of complement activation products, preceding the clinical manifestation of renal graft rejections may be of diagnostic value in recognizing patients at risk.