COVID-19 infection in kidney transplant recipients during the first versus the second wave - Retrospective Observational study from a single center

Background: Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) are deemed to be at a high risk of severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Herein, we describe the clinical, laboratory profiles, management, and outcomes of 26 KTRs who developed COVID-19 during the first and second waves of the pandemic from a tertiary care center in northern India. Methods: This retrospective observational study included KTRs detected with COVID-19 infection during the first wave (March–November 2020) and the second wave (March–July 2021). Their clinical and laboratory investigations, management aspects, and outcomes were compared, using data retrieved from clinical and telenephrology records, and the hospital information system. Results: Of the 23 KTRs, 20 were male (86%), 20 patients had fever (86%), and cough and breathlessness were seen in 19 (82%) and 12 (52%), respectively. Acute graft dysfunction was seen in 6 (26%) patients, and the need for renal replacement was seen in 4 (17%) patients. Supplemental oxygen by reservoir mask was utilized in 10 (43%) patients, high-flow nasal cannula in 3 (13%), noninvasive mechanical ventilation in 4 (17%), and invasive mechanical ventilation in 6 (26%) patients. All the KTRs with moderate and severe COVID illness and 6/7 nonsurvivors were infected during the second wave. Overall mortality in this group of patients was very high at 27%, and the mortality in the group on mechanical ventilation was 100%. Conclusions: The second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with greater severity of illness and high mortality in KTRs.