A Single Centre Case-Series of Covid-19 Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients

INTRODUCTION: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) has mutated over time, affecting its virulence, pathogenicity and disease severity. In December 2019, a new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has emerged causing a disease known as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The COVID-19 has a broad spectrum of severity ranging from an asymptomatic to a severe acute respiratory syndrome requiring mechanical ventilation. COVID-19 is often more severe in people aged 60 years or more, or those with health conditions like lung or heart disease, diabetes, or conditions that affect the immune system including kidney transplant recipients. In this case series, we presented our experience with 17 kidney transplant recipients who had COVID-19 infection. In India, COVID-19 peaked twice: once between August and November 2020, and again between March and June 2021. Thus, there was paucity of COVID-19 data in kidney transplant recipients in India during these times. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Our case series constituted a retrospective observational study involving 17 kidney transplant recipients who experienced COVID-19 infection from November 2020 to September 2021 at a solitary tertiary care center in Pune. Within our institution, the nephrology team assessed kidney transplant recipients with COVID-19 for appropriate immunosuppression dosing, renal drug clearance when deemed necessary, and overall well-being. Treatment for COVID-19 adhered to institutional protocols. RESULTS: In our case series, majority of the patients (n=13) had COVID-19 in March 2021 to July 2021 and the commonest presenting symptoms were fever and cough. Out of 17 kidney transplant recipients included in this case series, 13 patients survived while 4 patients succumbed to infection. CONCLUSION: An individualized, case-based approach to managing transplant recipients with COVID-19 is crucial for achieving favorable clinical outcomes.