Modern Immunosuppression Regimens in Kidney Transplantation

The initial results of kidney transplantation were significantly affected by a high rate of acute rejection as well as significant perioperative morbidity. Historically, the armamentarium of the transplant physician consisted of glucocorticoids and azathioprine. Significant improvements in the science and understanding of kidney transplantation immunology have lead to the development of induction therapy agents. Early induction therapy agents possessed little specificity and delivered a broad spectrum of effects; however, their potent ability to prevent early acute rejection episodes led to their widespread use [1].