Even with advancing medical technologies and knowledge, organ rejection is still a continual problem. But let’s back up: what is organ transplantation? An organ transplant is a surgical procedure in which an organ is transferred from the donor to the receiver, with organs ranging from the heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, etc.
However, this process isn’t as smooth as it sounds. Despite efforts to make the donor’s organ compatible with the receiver, there can be complications with our body’s immune system reacting to foreign tissue. Just as our bodies protect us from foreign substances like germs and cancerous cells, our bodies sense and attack the new organ through antigens.
There are three types of rejection: hyperacute, acute, and chronic. Let’s go over each.
Hyperacute: This type of rejection occurs immediately after transplant if the antigens are completely mismatched. Consequently, doctors must immediately remove the foreign organ to prevent death.
Acute: The most common type of rejection, acute rejection occurs with most patients 1-12 weeks after transplant.
Chronic: Chronic rejection spans multiple years, with the body’s immune system slowly attacking the foreign organ.
(Source: American Chemical Society)
Rejection aside, most organ transplant patients go on to lead much happier and healthier lives afterward. With a post-transplant lifestyle, however, patients must be mindful of the following:
Medication: Post-transplant, patients are required to take immunosuppressant drugs, which extend the lifetime of and prevent the immune system from attacking/rejecting the organ. If rejection does occur, doctors must adjust the levels of medication accordingly, whether that be increasing/decreasing the amount taken or switching the prescription altogether.
Self-monitoring health conditions: Transplant patients need to monitor their conditions (blood sugar level, temperature, weight, etc.) after transplant to check for any negative side effects.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Ensure that you manage your stress, eat well, and exercise often, especially after a transplant. For example, avoid fried foods and instead opt for steamed/grilled/baked.
Written by Kaitlyn Kou
Ansorge, Rick. “Managing Your Health after an Organ Transplant.” WebMD, WebMD, 5 July 2012, www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/organ-transplant-after-the-transplant.
Medline Plus. “Transplant Rejection.” Medlineplus.gov, 2018, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000815.htm.