[Histological observations of immunosuppressive effects of FK-506 in canine lung allotransplantation].

The Immunosuppressive effects of FK-506 were studied histologically in allotransplanted canine lungs. FK-506 was administered daily in a dose of 0.15 mg/kg after left lung allotransplantation. Nine dogs underwent open lung biopsy on the 7th postoperative day (p.o.d.). Mild mononuclear cell infiltrations around small vessels (MNC cuffings), which suggested an early phase of rejection, were observed in 2 dogs. Two dogs were sacrificed on the 14th and 2 on the 21st p.o.d. MNC cuffings were observed in the lung of one dog and in the bronchial submucosa of 2 dogs. Six dogs were sacrificed on the 28th p.o.d. MNC cuffings were observed in the lungs of 3 dogs and in the bronchial submucosa of 5 dogs. The MNC cuffings were of nearly the same extent in the lung and in the bronchial submucosa of most of the dogs. Alveolar structures were well in all the dogs and the bronchial epithelium in all except 2 of the dogs sacrificed on the 28th p.o.d. preserved. Arterial blood gas was examined before and 20 min. after right hilar ligation in 3 dogs on the 28th p.o.d. The PaO2 (228 mmHg, 312 mmHg, 217 mmHg at FiO2: 0.5, tidal volume: 20 ml/kg, respiratory rate: 20/min) and PaCO2 after rt, hilar ligation indicated that the transplanted lung was functioning well in these dogs. The present study suggests that FK-506 could be a potent immunosuppressive agent in lung transplantation. As 4 of the 14 dogs used in this experiment died from severe diarrhea caused by FK-506, further studies are needed to determine the suitable dose and route of administration of FK-506.