Transplant Channel

Transplant Med Side Effect Matching Quiz (1)
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Explanations:
Cataracts and corticosteroids
The incidence of cataracts with systemic (rather than topical) corticosteroid use varies widely depending on the study cited but is in the range of 2.5% to 60% (LaManna et al, 1994).

Leukopenia with azathioprine
Following renal transplant, the incidence of any degree of with leukopenia Azathioprine is greater than 50%; whereas, the incidence is 28% in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (Prod Info Imuran(R), 1997).

Hypertriglyceridemia with sirolimus (Rapamycin)
Dose-dependent HYPERTRIGLYCERIDEMIA and to lesser extent HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA occurred with the use of sirolimus as primary immunosuppression or after its addition to cyclosporine-based regimens in renal transplant patients (MacDonald et al, 2001; Groth et al, 1998; Slaton et al, 1995; Kahan, 1998; Brattstrom et al, 1998; Murgia et al, 1996). The hyperlipidemia associated with cyclosporine/steroids is enhanced by addition of sirolimus, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events and possibly graft rejection.

Hypercholesterolemia with cyclosporine
Total cholesterol increased by 26% in patients receiving cyclosporine. High-density lipoproteins decreased in both groups, but significantly more in the groups receiving cyclosporine. The ratio of low-density lipoproteins to high-density lipoproteins was 4 times higher in the patients receiving cyclosporine (Luke et al, 1990). Similar results have been reported in renal transplant patients (n=521) (Kasiske et al, 1990).

Hyperglycemia with tacrolimus
In kidney transplant patients, HYPERGLYCEMIA was reported in 22% of patients compared to 47% of liver transplant patients on tacrolimus; incidence data was obtained from controlled clinical trials. Insulin dependent DIABETES MELLITUS (DM) developed in 20% of kidney transplant patients; black and Hispanic patients had an increased risk for developing DM.

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