October 28, 2024, Immune Tolerance
Hyperlipidemia is highly prevalent among kidney transplant recipients. The causes may include genetic factors, high-fat diets, and the use of immunosuppressants.
Latest Research
The Tufts University research team recently published their findings on the relationship between hyperlipidemia and organ rejection in the American Journal of Transplantation. The findings indicate that hyperlipidemia (primarily elevated triglycerides and cholesterol) may increase the risk of rejection by modulating the immune system. Traditional immunological theory does not associate rejection with hyperlipidemia. This study found that hyperlipidemia can alter the levels of Th17 cells and Treg cells in the body, increasing the risk of organ transplant rejection, thereby enhancing the relevant theories of organ transplant rejection.
Key Considerations
This study highlights that long-term follow-up after kidney transplantation necessitates blood lipid testing. Hyperlipidemia not only harms the cardiovascular system but also directly elevates the risk of rejection! Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as adhering to a low-fat diet, controlling body weight, and engaging in regular exercise. When necessary, supplement with lipid-lowering medications. Currently, the most commonly used oral lipid-lowering medications in clinical practice include atorvastatin (Lipitor), simvastatin (Zocor), rosuvastatin (Crestor), and pravastatin (Pravachol), among others.
Dr. Jia Concludes
Hyperlipidemia is a significant adverse factor impacting the health of kidney transplant recipients. Previously, we focused on its adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, but the latest research demonstrates that elevated blood lipids increase the risk of rejection. Therefore, it is highly necessary for kidney transplant patients to consistently monitor blood lipid levels, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and, if needed, use lipid-lowering medications to strictly control blood lipid levels.
Written by | Jia Yichen, Edited by | Qi Guisheng, Homepage Image Sourced from the Internet
