Posttransplant erythrocytosis and risk factors

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of posttransplant erythrocytosis (PTE). MATERIAL and METHODS: The study included 96 patients who received a renal allograft between 2005-2009 years. PTE was defined as an elevated hematocrit level greater than 51% after renal transplantation in patients receiving an allograft. RESULTS: Of the 96 adult kidney recipients, 15 (15,6%) developed PTE. The mean time from transplantation to diagnosis was 7,3 ± 2,8 months (range, 4,5-13 months). Mean serum creatinine was 1,12 ±0,3 mg/dl (0,8-1,99 mg/dl) at the diagnosis of PTE. PTE was more frequent in male patients (p<0.05) and the patients with a long duration on dialysis prior to transplantation (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in patient age, donor source, donor age and immunosuppressive therapy on comparing the PTE group and non PTE groups. None of the patients with erythrocytosis experienced thromboembolic events during follow-up. CONCLUSION: PTE developed in the first year after transplantation. Male gender and a long duration on dialysis prior to transplantation are risk factors of PTE.