Chronic rejection
Chronic Rejection
Chronic rejection (/krɒnɪk rɪˈdʒɛkʃən/) is a medical term referring to the gradual loss of function of a transplanted organ due to the recipient's immune system response. The etymology of the term comes from the Greek word "chronos" meaning time, and the Latin word "reicere" meaning to throw back, indicating the body's persistent refusal to accept the transplanted organ over time.
Causes
Chronic rejection is primarily caused by the recipient's immune system recognizing the transplanted organ as foreign and attacking it. This is despite the use of immunosuppressive drugs to reduce the immune response. Other factors that may contribute to chronic rejection include infection, ischemia, and damage to the organ during transplantation.
Symptoms
The symptoms of chronic rejection vary depending on the organ involved. For example, in a heart transplant, symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention. In a kidney transplant, symptoms may include decreased urine output, high blood pressure, and swelling of the hands and feet.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of chronic rejection often involves a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. In some cases, a biopsy of the transplanted organ may be required.
Treatment
Treatment for chronic rejection typically involves increasing the dose of immunosuppressive drugs or switching to a different drug. In some cases, a second transplant may be necessary.
Prognosis
The prognosis for chronic rejection varies widely and depends on factors such as the organ involved, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. In general, chronic rejection is a serious condition that can lead to organ failure and death.
See Also
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