T86.12

Clinical Causes: Rejection of the transplanted kidney by the immune system Chronic rejection leading to gradual loss of kidney function Infections that damage the kidney tissue Recurrence of the original kidney disease in the transplanted organ Medication non-compliance or incorrect use of immunosuppressants Blood vessel problems affecting blood flow to the kidney General health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes that harm kidney function

Key Symptoms: Reduced urine output Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes Unexplained weight gain or fluid retention Persistent fatigue or weakness Elevated blood pressure Decreased kidney function indicated in lab tests Symptoms of infection such as fever or pain, if related to rejection or infections

Diagnosis Path: To diagnose kidney transplant failure, healthcare providers use a combination of tests and examinations, including: - Blood tests to evaluate kidney function, such as serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen - Urinalysis to detect abnormalities or signs of rejection - Imaging tests, like ultrasounds, to visualize blood flow and kidney size - Kidney biopsy to examine tissue directly for signs of rejection, damage, or disease recurrence These diagnostics help determine whether the transplant is functioning normally or if failure is occurring.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment strategies rely on the underlying cause of failure and aim to preserve kidney function or prepare for a second transplant if necessary. Common approaches include: - Adjusting immunosuppressive medications to combat rejection - Treating infections promptly to prevent further organ damage - Managing underlying health issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes - Dialysis if kidney function declines significantly, to replace the filtering role of the kidney - In some cases, a second transplant may be recommended if the failure is irreversible Close medical monitoring and adherence to treatment plans are essential for managing kidney transplant failure effectively.