Acute rejection
Hello Professor Lin, thank you for your response.
After medical consultation, I was informed that if acute rejection occurs, it must be controlled; otherwise, the new kidney must be removed immediately to prevent harm to the patient, such as damage to the heart, liver, and other organs, correct?
Additionally, I would like to ask a second question: isn't the normal size of a kidney 12 to 15 centimeters? How could it be 9.87 centimeters?
Lastly, what does it mean to have ascites? I don't quite understand.
Thank you for your answers, Professor.
stjj, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/06/21
Dr. Lin Qingyuan reply Rare Disease
(1) If acute rejection occurs, it can theoretically be managed, but a biopsy is necessary to determine the type and severity of the rejection.
(2) Since the implanted kidney will not grow larger, the only way to assess for atrophy is to compare it to its own previous size.
(3) It is important to investigate the cause of ascites, as I am still concerned about the potential activation of cytomegalovirus.
Reply Date: 2005/06/21
More Info
Acute rejection is a significant concern for patients who have undergone kidney transplantation. It occurs when the recipient's immune system identifies the transplanted kidney as foreign and mounts an immune response against it. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the transplanted organ. There are two main types of acute rejection: acute cellular rejection and acute humoral (antibody-mediated) rejection. While acute rejection can often be managed with immunosuppressive medications, if it is not controlled, it can lead to severe complications, including damage to other organs such as the heart and liver due to systemic inflammation or renal failure.
In cases of acute rejection, timely intervention is crucial. If the rejection is severe and cannot be managed with medication, the transplanted kidney may need to be removed to prevent further harm to the patient. This is a serious situation, as it not only affects the kidney function but can also have systemic effects on the body, potentially leading to multi-organ dysfunction.
Regarding kidney size, the normal size of a kidney in adults typically ranges from 12 to 15 centimeters. However, various factors can influence kidney size, including age, sex, body size, and overall health. A measurement of 9.87 centimeters, as mentioned, could indicate that the kidney is smaller than average, which may be due to previous damage, congenital factors, or other underlying health issues. It is essential to correlate kidney size with function and any existing medical conditions. A smaller kidney does not necessarily indicate a problem, but it may warrant further investigation to ensure that it is functioning adequately.
As for ascites, this term refers to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Ascites can occur due to various reasons, including liver disease (such as cirrhosis), heart failure, infections, or malignancies. In the context of kidney transplant patients, ascites could be a sign of complications related to the transplant or other underlying health issues. It is essential to evaluate the cause of ascites through imaging studies and clinical assessment to determine the appropriate management.
In summary, acute rejection is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Regular monitoring of kidney function and size is crucial for transplant recipients, and any abnormalities should be investigated further. Understanding the implications of kidney size and the presence of ascites can help guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. If you have concerns about your kidney health or potential complications, it is advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and current condition.
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