Renal transplantation in adolescents.

Abstract

Renal transplantation remains the goal for the pediatric patient with end-stage renal disease. Recent advances in technology and immunosuppression have greatly enhanced patient and graft survival, while reducing significant complications. However, transplantation of adolescents is still fraught with the potential for serious problems. The increased risk of graft loss, late acute rejection, and incomplete rejection reversal observed in the adolescent age group demands further investigation. Lack of adherence to immunosuppression regimens may be an important contributory factor. Strategies to address the unique concerns of this high-risk population, including the use of a multidisciplinary team, are essential to improving outcomes.