Induction therapy in lung transplantation: initial single-center experience comparing daclizumab and antithymocyte globulin
Abstract
Acute and chronic rejection remain unresolved problems after lung transplantation, despite heavy multidrug immunosuppression. Because acute rejection is associated with inferior outcomes in lung transplantation, we have routinely employed antithymocyte globulin (ATG) or daclizumab as adjuncts to reduce the incidence of rejection episodes.
Results: No differences were observed in the immediate postoperative outcomes, such as length of hospitalization, ICU stay, or time on ventilator. There were no significant differences in the number of episodes of acute rejection, freedom from BOS, or infections.
Conclusions: Daclizumab constitutes a safe and effective form of induction immunosuppressive therapy. Using a two-dose administration schedule, daclizumab prolonged the time without acute rejection compared to ATG.
The differences in the incidence of infectious complications, acute rejection, or BOS as well as the short-term or long-term results were not significantly different.