Allotransplantaatio
Allotransplantaatio, also known as a homograft or allograft transplantation, is a medical procedure where an organ or tissue is transplanted from one individual to another of the same species. The donor and recipient are genetically distinct. This is the most common type of organ transplantation performed today, with examples including kidney, liver, heart, and lung transplants. The transplanted organ or tissue comes from a deceased or living donor. A significant challenge in allotransplantation is the potential for the recipient's immune system to reject the foreign tissue, as it recognizes the donor cells as non-self. To mitigate this risk, recipients are typically prescribed immunosuppressant medications, which are taken for the rest of their lives. These medications help to prevent the immune system from attacking and destroying the transplanted organ. The success rates of allotransplantation have significantly improved over the decades due to advancements in surgical techniques, organ preservation, and the development of more effective immunosuppressive drugs. Careful matching of donor and recipient, particularly for human leukocyte antigens (HLA), can further reduce the risk of rejection. Allotransplantation offers a life-saving treatment option for individuals suffering from end-stage organ failure.