Transplantatabstoßung

Transplantatabstoßung refers to the immune system's reaction against a transplanted organ or tissue. When a person receives a transplant, their immune system recognizes the donor organ as foreign due to differences in cell surface markers, primarily the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. This recognition triggers an immune response, aiming to eliminate the perceived foreign invader.

There are several types of transplant rejection. Hyperacute rejection occurs within minutes to hours of transplantation and is mediated by pre-existing antibodies. Acute rejection typically happens within the first few months and involves T cells and antibodies attacking the graft. Chronic rejection is a slower process that can occur over months or years, leading to gradual organ damage and dysfunction.

To prevent or manage rejection, transplant recipients must take immunosuppressant medications for the rest of their lives. These drugs suppress the immune system, making it less likely to attack the transplanted organ. Regular monitoring of organ function and immune markers is crucial to detect and treat rejection early. While immunosuppression reduces rejection risk, it also increases the patient's susceptibility to infections and other complications. The goal of transplant management is to achieve a balance between preventing rejection and minimizing the side effects of immunosuppression.