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Background: Social media platforms such as TikTok™ are key sources of health information for young patients and caregivers. Misinformation is prevalent on TikTok™ across healthcare fields, which can perpetuate false beliefs about medical care. Limited data exists on the reliability of pediatric nephrology TikTok™ content. This study aimed to describe the quality of medical content of TikTok™ Videos (TTVs), related to pediatric kidney disease and transplant. Methods: TTVs were selected using specific search terms and categorized into pediatric kidney disease and kidney transplant, excluding duplicate and adult-related content. The top 100 TTVs in each category, based on views, were analyzed. TTV characteristics were stratified by account type (physician, non-physician healthcare professional (HCP), non-HCP) and video aim (personal story, education, entertainment). DISCERN scoring, a validated questionnaire evaluating health information reliability, was conducted by 4 independent raters. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using a 2-way random effects model, and differences between content creator types were evaluated using one-way ANOVA and post-Hoc Tukey test. Results: TTVs had a total of 12.5 million likes and 113.1 million views. Over 70% of videos were created by non-HCPs (n = 147/200). DISCERN scoring revealed low reliability of medical information across content creator types. TTVs created by physicians and non-physician HCPs about kidney disease had significantly higher mean DISCERN scores compared to those created by non-HCPs (2.85, p < 0.001 and 2.48, p = 0.005, respectively). Conclusions: Educators within the pediatric nephrology community must keep in mind the lack of reliability of medical information available on TikTok™ and coordinate collective efforts to consider utilizing TikTok™ for patient education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a devastating complication of immunosuppressive treatment in both solid organ transplantations (SOT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HSCT). Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection precedes PTLD in 90% of patients. Rituximab, a monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody, depletes B-lymphocytes, which are the ultimate reservoir for EBV. Although rituximab therapy is commonly used as a preventive measure for PTLD in high-risk HSCT, it is not established in SOT. Methods: Pediatric kidney transplant recipients (PKTR) underwent routine EBV-PCR surveillance. Patients with increasing viral loads, despite immunosuppressive dose reduction, were managed with preventive rituximab therapy. Results: Between 2012 and 2023, we identified eight episodes of asymptomatic EBV-PCR-positive blood tests in seven out of 65 PKTR (11%) under our care. EBV DNAemia emerged 120–720 days post-transplantation. Five of seven patients with EBV DNAemia (71%) were EBV-seronegative prior to transplantation. All five patients did not respond to MMF dose reduction and were therefore treated with preventive rituximab therapy. Following this treatment, EBV PCR clearance was observed in all patients with only minimal complications. Conclusions: PKTR who are EBV-naïve prior to transplantation are expected to have a higher prevalence of EBV DNAemia. We found that PKTR who were EBV seronegative prior to transplantation were less likely to achieve EBV clearance in response to immunosuppression dose reduction. We suggest that rituximab therapy in PKTR may be safe and effective in EBV clearance and PTLD prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a major cause of pediatric kidney failure. Most cases of FSGS in children are idiopathic and have a high risk of post-transplantation recurrence and graft loss. Common treatments for recurrent FSGS (rFSGS) post-transplantation include plasmapheresis, immunoadsorption, and/or immunomodulatory therapy. This study retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of early plasmapheresis followed by rituximab for inducing and maintaining remission in rFSGS. Between 2014 and 2023, 8 of 65 pediatric kidney transplant recipients at our center were diagnosed with idiopathic FSGS. rFSGS was diagnosed based on nephrotic range proteinuria with no other cause and managed with plasmapheresis. Rituximab therapy was used for those who did not achieve complete remission with prolonged plasmapheresis or remained plasmapheresis dependent. 6 of 8 (75%) transplant recipients with idiopathic FSGS experienced rFSGS. All patients achieved partial or complete remission with plasmapheresis, with response times ranging from 8 to 379 days (median 13 days). Rituximab therapy was introduced for 5 plasmapheresis-dependent patients, leading to sustained remission and cessation of plasmapheresis in 3 patients, while 2 showed improved proteinuria and reduced plasmapheresis frequency. Adverse effects included rituximab-induced serum sickness in one patient and one mild allergic reaction. One patient experienced graft loss due to humoral rejection, but no grafts were lost to rFSGS, and all other grafts remained functional over an average follow-up of 50 months. Early plasmapheresis followed by rituximab therapy effectively induces remission in most post-transplantation rFSGS cases, is well tolerated, and prevents graft loss. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Background: Norovirus is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis. Studies in adult kidney recipients have documented significant morbidity associated with norovirus infection, but there are few studies in pediatric recipients. Methods: Multicenter retrospective cohort study of pediatric kidney transplant recipients with norovirus, confirmed by stool PCR, between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2018. Outcomes of interest included duration of diarrhea, incidence of chronic diarrhea, management strategies, and graft function. Results: Forty pediatric kidney transplant recipients from four centers were identified for inclusion. Median age at transplant was 5.4 years (IQR 2.2–11.2 years), and median time post‐transplant was 1.9 years (IQR 0.8–3.8 years). Median diarrheal duration was 16 days (IQR 6.0–41.5 days); 15 patients (43%) had acute diarrhea, 8 (23%) had persistent, and 12 (30%) had chronic diarrhea. Twenty‐one (53%) patients developed acute kidney injury. Thirty‐five (88%) patients required supplemental fluids, 8 (20%) patients underwent immunosuppression reduction for a median of 22 days, 5 (13%) were treated with nitazoxanide, and 5 (13%) received oral immunoglobulin. Acute rejection was diagnosed in 3 (8%) patients within 6 months of norovirus diagnosis. We observed no sustained decline in eGFR at 12 months after diarrhea resolution (median eGFR difference: 2.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 [IQR: −17.1, 7.4]). Of the patients in the cohort, two lost their graft at 6.8 and 30.0 months after the onset of diarrhea. Conclusion: Norovirus is associated with significant morbidity in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. Various treatment interventions are being employed for norovirus infection. Larger studies, both observational and interventional, are needed to determine the optimal treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Optimizing graft survival and diminishing human leukocyte antigen (HLA) sensitization are essential for pediatric kidney transplant recipients. More precise HLA matching predicting epitope mismatches could reduce alloreactivity. We investigated the association of predicted HLA B‐ and T‐cell molecular mismatches with the formation of de novo donor‐specific antibodies, HLA antibodies, rejection, and graft survival. Methods: Forty‐nine pediatric kidney transplant recipients transplanted from 2009 to 2020 were retrospectively studied. Donors and recipients were high‐resolution HLA typed, and recipients were screened for HLA antibodies posttransplant. HLA‐EMMA (HLA Epitope MisMatch Algorithm) and PIRCHE‐II (Predicted Indirectly ReCognizable HLA Epitopes) predicted the molecular mismatches. The association of molecular mismatches and the end‐points was explored with logistic regression. Results: Five recipients (11%) developed de novo donor‐specific antibodies. All five had de novo donor‐specific antibodies against HLA class II, with four having HLA‐DQ antibodies. We found no associations between PIRCHE‐II or HLA‐EMMA with de novo donor‐specific antibodies, HLA sensitization, graft loss, or rejection. However, we did see a tendency towards an increased odds ratio in PIRCHE‐II predicting de novo donor‐specific antibodies formation, with an odds ratio of 1.12 (95% CI: 0.99; 1.28) on HLA class II. Conclusion: While the study revealed no significant associations between the number of molecular mismatches and outcomes, a notable trend was observed – indicating a reduced risk of dnDSA formation with improved molecular match. It is important to acknowledge, however, that the modest population size and limited observed outcomes preclude us from making definitive conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Probiotics are living microorganisms that may confer health benefits to their host if administered in sufficient quantities. However, data on the use of probiotics in transplant recipients are scarce. Method: This multi‐center survey of pediatric nephrologists aimed to examine variations in practice regarding the use of probiotics in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. The survey was conducted via a 10‐item questionnaire (developed in Survey Monkey) administered to pediatric nephrologists participating in the Pediatric Nephrology Research Consortium meeting in April 2023. Results: Sixty‐four pediatric nephrologists completed the survey. Twenty‐seven (42.2%) respondents reported having prescribed probiotics to pediatric kidney transplant recipients. The primary reason for probiotic use was the treatment of antibiotic‐associated diarrhea (n = 20), with other reasons including recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (n = 15), general gut health promotion (n = 12), recurrent urinary tract infections (n = 8), and parental request (n = 1). Of those who prescribed probiotics, 48.1% held them during periods of neutropenia and 14.8% during central venous line use. Of the 64 respondents, 20 reported the lack of safety data as a concern for using probiotics in kidney transplant recipients. Conclusion: Pediatric nephrologists are increasingly prescribing probiotics to pediatric kidney transplant recipients; nevertheless, substantial practice variations exist. The paucity of safety data is a significant deterrent to probiotic use in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We hypothesized that alemtuzumab use is safe in pediatric kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) with equivalent long‐term outcomes compared to other induction agents. Methods: Using pediatric kidney transplant recipient data in the UNOS database between January 1, 2000, and June 30, 2022, multivariate logistic regression, multivariable Cox regression, and survival analyses were utilized to estimate the likelihoods of 1st‐year and all‐time hospitalizations, acute rejection, CMV infection, delayed graft function (DGF), graft loss, and patient mortality among recipients of three common induction regimens (ATG, alemtuzumab, and basiliximab). Results: There were no differences in acute rejection or graft failure among induction or maintenance regimens. Basiliximab was associated with lower odds of DGF in deceased donor recipients (OR 0.77 [0.60–0.99], p =.04). Mortality was increased in patients treated with steroid‐containing maintenance (HR 1.3 [1.005–1.7] p =.045). Alemtuzumab induction correlated with less risk of CMV infection than ATG (OR 0.76 [0.59–0.99], p =.039). Steroid‐containing maintenance conferred lower rate of PTLD compared to steroid‐free maintenance (HR 0.59 [0.4–0.8] p =.001). Alemtuzumab was associated with less risk of hospitalization within 1 year (OR 0.79 [0.67–0.95] p =.012) and 5 years (HR 0.54 [0.46–0.65] p <.001) of transplantation. Steroid maintenance also decreased 5 years hospitalization risk (HR 0.78 [0.69–0.89] p <.001). Conclusions: Pediatric KTRs may be safely treated with alemtuzumab induction without increased risk of acute rejection, DGF, graft loss, or patient mortality. The decreased risk of CMV infections and lower hospitalization rates compared to other agents make alemtuzumab an attractive choice for induction in pediatric KTRs, especially in those who cannot tolerate ATG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posterior urethral valves (PUV) represents a heterogenous spectrum in which guidelines for management are lacking particularly for those patients facing end-stage kidney disease and transplant. In this study we aim to 1) evaluate our long term PUV pediatric transplant outcomes compared to those without lower urinary tract dysfunction and 2) assess our PUV cohort for trends in bladder management and evaluate outcomes to inform development of institutional guidelines. A retrospective cohort analysis of all patients with a diagnosis of PUV who underwent kidney transplant from 2000 to 2023 was completed. A matched cohort of patients without lower urinary tract dysfunction was identified for comparison of graft function. Charts of PUV patients were reviewed for both sociodemographic and clinical variables. Patients were classified by bladder management at the time of transplantation into three separate groups for analysis: voiding, clean intermittent catheterization, and incontinent diversion. Primary outcomes of interest were eGFR, graft failure, and UTIs post-transplant. 45 patients met inclusion criteria. 69% were on dialysis prior to transplant. 51% of grafts were from a deceased donor. Bladder management consisted of voiding (62%), CIC (4 via urethra, 10 via channel) (31%), and incontinent diversion (7%). 20% underwent augmentation cystoplasty (5 = ureter, 2 = gastric, 1 = colon, and 1 = ileum) prior to or at the time of transplant. Median follow up duration was 5.4 years (3.0, 10.8). Patients on CIC had higher rates of UTI; however, we found no significant difference in graft function outcomes (eGFR, graft failure) between bladder management groups or year of transplant. VUR in the transplant kidney was associated with vesicostomy (p = 0.028). 2 of 2 gastric augments developed malignancy, one of which was cause of death. Graft failure rate was 22% in both the PUV group and matched cohort, with median interval times to failure of 6.7 years and 3.7 years, respectively (p = 0.71). There were no differences in eGFR at follow-up time points between the PUV and matched cohort. Patients with PUV represent a spectrum of disease with heterogeneous management before and after kidney transplant. Overall, graft function outcomes were similar when compared to matched cohort without lower urinary tract dysfunction. Patients on CIC had higher rates of UTI but without impact on graft function. Gastric augmentation cystoplasty should be avoided given risk for malignancy. Guidelines to standardize evaluation and management would be helpful for patient care and outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Donor derived infections (DDIs) in pediatric kidney transplant recipients remain challenging to diagnose and can result in serious morbidity and mortality. This review summarizes the current guidelines and recommendations for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of unexpected DDIs in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. We provide a contemporary overview of DDI terminology, surveillance, epidemiology, and recommended approaches for assessing these rare events with an emphasis on the pediatric recipient. To address prevention and risk mitigation, important aspects of donor and pediatric candidate evaluations are reviewed, including current Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and American Society of Transplantation (AST) recommendations. Common unexpected DDI encountered by pediatric transplant teams including multi-drug resistant organisms, tuberculosis, syphilis, West Nile Virus, toxoplasmosis, Chagas disease, strongyloidiasis, candidiasis, histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, and emerging infections such as COVID-19 are discussed in detail. Finally, we consider the general challenges with management of DDIs and share our experience with a novel application of next generation sequencing (NGS) of microbial cell-free DNA that will likely define a future direction in this field.

Background: Kidney transplantation is an acceptable therapy end‐stage kidney disease secondary to antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis with risk of disease recurrence ranging from 3% to 17%. Standard posttransplant immunosuppression is the mainstay of therapy after recurrence. Recently, new medications focused on complement regulation and avoidance of steroids have been shown to be effective in treating antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) vasculitis with no studies in the pediatric population. Methods: We report a 5‐year‐old patient with immediate recurrence of positive myeloperoxidase (MPO)‐ANCA vasculitis after deceased donor kidney transplant and the novel use of eculizumab to salvage the graft. Results: Eculizumab and transition to ravulizumab has been successful in improving graft function and maintenance of disease remission after immediate MPO‐ANCA vasculitis recurrence posttransplant. Conclusions: Complement inhibitors may be used in addition to standard immunosuppression postkidney transplant in a pediatric patient with MPO‐ANCA vasculitis recurrence without higher rates of infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alemtuzumab is a lymphocyte depleting agent used for induction in kidney transplant, but long‐term information on its use in pediatric recipients remains sparse. Methods: We performed a single‐center retrospective cohort study of 57 pediatric kidney transplant recipients receiving alemtuzumab 20 mg/m2/dose ×2 doses for induction immunosuppression. All patients underwent surveillance biopsies, and 91.3% underwent steroid withdrawal by day 4 post‐transplant. Outcomes of interest included graft survival, development of donor specific antibodies (DSA), incidence of viremia and PTLD, and duration of lymphopenia. Results: Median follow‐up time was 7.9 years (IQR 5–13.6 years). Median graft survival was 16.5 years (95% CI 11.6‐unknown). DSA developed in 36.5% at a median of 944 days (IQR 252–2113 days). Incidences of BK polyomavirus DNAemia (BKPyV‐DNAemia), CMV DNAemia, and EBV DNAemia were 38.6%, 22.8%, and 14%, respectively; one patient developed PTLD at 13.3 years post‐transplant. Median duration of lymphopenia was 365 days (IQR 168–713 days); 19.3% of patients remained lymphopenic at 3 years post‐transplant. There was no association between duration of lymphopenia and graft survival, rejection, DSA detection, or viremia. Conclusions: A two‐dose alemtuzumab induction protocol can have excellent outcomes with a steroid‐free maintenance immunosuppression regimen. More comprehensive, multicenter, comparative studies of pediatric kidney transplant are needed to improve long‐term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited data in the literature about pediatric kidney transplant (KT) following gut transplant (GT). The purpose of this study is to highlight the technical challenges and outcomes of KT in pediatric gut recipients who developed kidney failure (KF). Methods: A retrospective single‐center study of pediatric GT recipients from January 2000 to December 2019 was performed. In total, 14 (7%) out of 206 pediatric GT recipients developed KF and were listed for KT. Ten patients underwent kidney after gut transplant (KAGT), three patients underwent simultaneous kidney and re‐do gut transplant (SKAGT), and one patient died on the KT waitlist. Results: 1‐, 5‐, and 10‐year kidney graft survival was 100%, 91%, and 78%, respectively. 1‐, 5‐, and 10‐year GT graft survival was 100%, 77%, and 77%, respectively. 1‐, 5‐, and 10‐year patient survival was 100%, 91%, and 91%, respectively. Conclusion: Despite the technical complexity, KAGT and SKAGT for pediatric GT recipients that develop KF can be performed with favorable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Urinary CXCL10/creatinine (uCXCL10/Cr) is proposed as an effective biomarker of subclinical rejection in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. This study objective was to model implementation in the clinical setting. Methods: Banked urine samples at a single center were tested for uCXCL10/Cr to validate published thresholds for rejection diagnosis (>80% specificity). The positive predictive value (PPV) for rejection diagnosis for uCXCL10/Cr‐indicated biopsy was modeled with first‐positive versus two‐test‐positive approaches, with accounting for changes associated with urinary tract infection (UTI), BK and CMV viremia, and subsequent recovery. Results: Seventy patients aged 10.5 ± 5.6 years at transplant (60% male) had n = 726 urine samples with n = 236 associated biopsies (no rejection = 167, borderline = 51, and Banff 1A = 18). A threshold of 12 ng/mmol was validated for Banff 1A versus no‐rejection diagnosis (AUC = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.57–0.92). The first‐positive test approach (n = 69) did not resolve a clinical diagnosis in 38 cases (55%), whereas the two‐test approach resolved a clinical diagnosis in the majority as BK (n = 17/60, 28%), CMV (n = 4/60, 7%), UTI (n = 8/60, 13%), clinical rejection (n = 5/60, 8%), and transient elevation (n = 18, 30%). In those without a resolved clinical diagnosis, PPV from biopsy for subclinical rejection is 24% and 71% (p =.017), for first‐test versus two‐test models, respectively. After rejection treatment, uCXCL10/Cr level changes were all concordant with change in it‐score. Sustained uCXCL10/Cr after CMV and BK viremia resolution was associated with later acute rejection. Conclusions: Urinary CXCL10/Cr reliably identifies kidney allograft inflammation. These data support a two‐test approach to reliably exclude other clinically identifiable sources of inflammation, for kidney biopsy indication to rule out subclinical rejection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: BK viremia after kidney transplantation (KT) poses significant risk for BK virus‐associated nephropathy and impacts graft survival. Conventional treatment involves reduction of immunosuppression, which in turn may increase risk for rejection. To address this dilemma, use of anti‐viral therapy with immunosuppressive properties such as leflunomide is an attractive option. Methods: We performed a multi‐center, retrospective chart review to report tolerability and effectiveness of leflunomide use for the eradication of BK viremia and prevention of BK virus‐associated nephropathy in pediatric KT recipients. Results: Seventy patients prescribed leflunomide were included and were followed up from initiation until 1 year following leflunomide completion. BK viremia was eradicated in 64 (91.4%) patients including 8 of 11 with nephropathy (BKVN) on initial biopsy. Reduced anti‐proliferative medication (AP) dosing was not associated with increase in biopsy proven rejection (BPAR). However, complete discontinuation of AP during leflunomide therapy was associated with increase in BPAR in uni‐ and multivariate logistic regression, as was targeted reduction in calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) trough goals. One graft was lost to BKVN. There was no significant association found between time to BK eradication and leflunomide trough concentration, mycophenolate dose reduction, or steroid use (univariate logistic regression). Few leflunomide adverse drug reactions (ADR) were reported (most commonly: gastrointestinal, hematologic). Conclusion: Leflunomide is a promising adjunctive treatment to immunosuppression reduction for BK virus eradication with minimal ADR. AP reduction, not discontinuation, and judicious reduction in CNI trough goals with close monitoring, is a promising strategy for treatment of BK viremia with concomitant use of leflunomide therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Valganciclovir is approved for cytomegalovirus prophylaxis in pediatrics using the Pescovitz algorithm. There are reports of valganciclovir overdoses in children with low body surface area and overestimated creatinine clearance utilizing this algorithm. This study compared the incidence of neutropenia and cytomegalovirus infection between the Pescovitz and weight‐based dosing algorithms. Methods: A single‐center retrospective chart review from January 2010 to September 2018 was performed on pediatric heart, liver, and kidney transplant recipients, who received valganciclovir. Data were collected from the initiation of valganciclovir prophylaxis to 30 days after discontinuation. The primary objective was the incidence of neutropenia in patients receiving valganciclovir dosed by the Pescovitz versus weight‐based dosing algorithms. Results: This study included 187 pediatric transplant recipients who received valganciclovir dosed via the Pescovitz (62 recipients) or weight‐based dosing algorithms (125 recipients). The incidence of neutropenia was higher in the Pescovitz (69.4%) compared to the weight‐based dosing group (53.6%; p =.04) including moderate and severe neutropenia. Cytomegalovirus viremia was not significantly different between the two groups and occurred in 4.8% of the Pescovitz group compared to 2.4% of the weight‐based group (p =.4). Conclusions: The incidence of neutropenia was greater in recipients receiving valganciclovir dosed via the Pescovitz algorithm compared to the weight‐based dosing. There were no significant differences in regard to cytomegalovirus viremia or disease between the two groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In adults, pretransplant malignancy (PTM) negatively impacts patient survival due to immunosuppression regimens influencing post‐transplantation tumor growth. Few reports investigate the outcomes of pediatric kidney transplantation with PTM. We compare transplant outcomes for pediatric patients with PTM to matched controls, including cancer types extending beyond Wilms tumor. Methods: The United Network of Organ Sharing Database was queried to identify pediatric transplant recipients with histories of PTM. All PTM patients were matched to non‐PTM patients, at a 1:1 ratio, with 0.001 match tolerance. Matching variables included transplant year, recipient age, recipient gender, recipient race, donor type, and prior transplant. Death‐censored graft and patient survival were analyzed. All statistics were reported with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: After propensity matching, 285 PTM and 285 non‐PTM patients were identified, with transplant dates from 1990 to 2020. Median Kidney Donor Profile Index values were comparable between cohorts, 17% and 12%, respectively (p =.065). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that PTM patients did not have a significantly different rate of death‐censored graft failure, compared to the non‐PTM group [HR 0.76; 95% CI (0.54–1.1)]. There was also no difference in the overall survival between the two groups of patients [HR 1.1; 95% CI (0.66–2.0)]. Conclusion: A history of pediatric malignancy has minimal independent effect on their post‐transplant survival. Additionally, pediatric patients with PTM demonstrated equivalent rates of graft survival. Thus, in contrast to adults, renal failure in children with history of pediatric malignancies should not be considered a complicating factor for renal transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Solid organ transplantation has evolved in recent decades, resulting in a rise in patient and graft survival. Frequent hospitalizations affect graft function, patients' health, and quality of life. This study characterizes the frequency and causes of post‐transplant hospitalizations among pediatric recipients. Methods: This is a retrospective observational study evaluating pediatric kidney transplant recipients (KTR) and liver transplant recipients (LTR) aged 0–21 years, followed at a tertiary pediatric center in Israel from 2012 to 2017. Data were collected starting at 60 days post‐transplantation. Diagnoses of admissions were based on clinical, laboratory, and radiographic findings. Results: Forty‐nine KTR experienced 199 all‐cause re‐hospitalizations (median number of re‐hospitalizations per patient – 3 (IQR [interquartile range] 1–5.5), while 351 re‐hospitalizations were recorded in 56 LTR (median – 5 [IQR 2–8.8]). Median follow‐up time was 2.2 years for KTR (IQR 1–3.9) and 3 years for LTR (IQR 2.1–4.1). The most common cause for hospitalization for both cohorts was infection (50.8% and 62%, respectively). Gram‐negative bacteria were the most common pathogens identified in KTR, while viral pathogens were more common in LTR (51% and 57% of pathogen‐identified cases, respectively). Conclusions: This is the largest study to describe rehospitalizations for pediatric solid organ recipients. The hospital admission rate was higher in LTR in comparison to KTR. Infections were the most common cause of hospitalization throughout the whole study period in both populations. Frequent hospitalizations impose a heavy burden on patients and their families; better understanding of hospitalization causes may help to minimize their frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Right versus left kidney donor nephrectomy remains a controversial topic in renal transplantation given the increased incidence of right kidney vascular anomalies and associated venous thrombosis. We present the case of a 3‐year‐old pediatric recipient with urethral atresia and end‐stage kidney disease who received a robotically procured living donor right pelvic kidney with two short same‐size renal veins and a short ureter. Methods: We utilized a completely deceased iliac vein system (common iliac vein with both external and internal veins) to extend the two renal veins. Due to the distance between both renal veins, the external iliac vein was anastomosed to the upper hilum renal vein, and the internal iliac vein was anastomosed to the lower hilum renal vein. The donor's short ureter was anastomosed to the recipient's ureter end‐to‐side. Results: The patient had immediate graft function and there were no post‐operative complications. Renal ultrasound was unremarkable at 48 hours post‐transplant. Serum creatinine was 0.5 mg/dL at 3 months post‐transplant. Conclusion: We demonstrate the successful transplantation of a robotically procured right pelvic donor kidney with two short renal veins using a deceased donor iliac vein system for venous reconstruction without increasing technical complications. This technique of venous reconstruction can be used in right kidneys with similar anatomical variations without affecting graft function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The optimal age of kidney transplantation for infants and toddlers with kidney failure is unclear. We aimed to evaluate the patient survival associated with kidney transplantation before 2 years of age versus remaining on the waitlist until ≥2 years. Method: We used the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients to identify all children added to the deceased‐donor waitlist before 2 years of age between 1/1/2000 and 4/30/2020. For each case aged <2 years at transplant, we created a control group comprising all candidates on the waitlist on the case's transplant date. Patient survival was evaluated using sequential Cox regression. Dialysis‐free time was defined as graft survival time for cases and the sum of dialysis‐free time on the waitlist and graft survival time for controls. Results: We observed similar patient survival for posttransplant periods 0–3 and 4–12 months but higher survival for period >12 months for <2‐year decreased‐donor recipients (aHR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.13–0.78; p =.01) compared with controls. Similarly, patient survival was higher for <2‐year living‐donor recipients for posttransplant period >12 months (aHR: 0.21; 95% CI: 0.06–0.73; p =.01). The 5‐year dialysis‐free survival was higher for <2‐year deceased‐ (difference: 0.59 years; 95% CI: 0.23–0.93) and living‐donor (difference: 1.84 years; 95% CI: 1.31–2.25) recipients. Conclusion: Kidney transplantation in children <2 years of age is associated with improved patient survival and reduced dialysis exposure compared with remaining on the waitlist until ≥2 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric patients with progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) approaching kidney replacement therapy (KRT) make up a small population but carry significant morbidity and mortality. Patients and caregivers require comprehensive kidney failure education to ensure a smooth start to KRT. Choice of KRT modality can be influenced by medical comorbidities, patient/caregiver comprehension, and comfort with a particular modality, social and economic factors, and/or implicit bias of the health care team. As KRT modality can influence morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, we created a pediatric advanced CKD clinic to provide comprehensive KRT education and to promote informed decision-making for our advanced CKD patients and their caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a relatively rare childhood disease that is associated with a wide array of medical comorbidities. Roughly half of all pediatric patients acquire CKD due to congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract, and of those with congenital disease, 50% will progress to end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) necessitating a kidney transplantation. The medical sequelae of advanced CKD/ESKD improve dramatically following successful kidney transplantation; however, the impact of kidney transplantation on neurocognition in children is less clear. It is generally thought that cognition improves following kidney transplantation; however, our knowledge on this topic is limited by the sparsity of high‐quality data in the context of the relative rarity of pediatric CKD/ESKD. Method: We conducted a narrative review to gauge the scope of the literature, using the PubMed database and the following keywords: cognition, kidney, brain, pediatric, neurocognition, intelligence, executive function, transplant, immunosuppression, and neuroimaging. Results: There are few published longitudinal studies, and existing work often includes wide heterogeneity in age at transplant, variable dialysis exposure/duration prior to transplant, and unaccounted cofounders which persist following transplantation, including socio‐economic status. Furthermore, the impact of long‐term maintenance immunosuppression on the brain and cognitive function of pediatric kidney transplant (KT) recipients remains unknown. Conclusion: In this educational review, we highlight what is known on the topic of neurocognition and neuroimaging in the pediatric KT population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidneys from infants with anuric acute kidney injury (AKI) only rarely get accepted for transplantation despite encouraging data that such kidneys can have very good long‐term outcome. Methods: We report the transplantation of four kidney grafts from two pediatric donors (3 and 4 years) with anuric acute kidney injury as single kidneys into four adult recipients. Results: All grafts gained function within 14 days posttransplantation, only one recipient needed dialysis after transplantation. None of the recipients suffered from surgical complications. One month after transplantation, all recipients were free of dialysis. Estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) 3 months after transplantation were 37, 40, 50, and 83 mL/min/1.73 m2. eGFR increased further through month 6, reaching 45, 50, 58, and 89 mL/min/1.73 m2. Conclusion: These cases highlight the feasibility of successful transplantation of single pediatric kidney grafts into adult recipients despite anuric AKI of the donor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidney transplantation (KT) is the preferred treatment for children with end‐stage kidney disease. Recent advances in immunosuppression and advances in donor specific antibody (DSA) testing have resulted in prolonged allograft survival; however, standardized approaches for surveillance DSA monitoring and management of de novo (dn) DSA are widely variable among pediatric KT programs. Methods: Pediatric transplant nephrologists in the multi‐center Improving Renal Outcomes Collaborative (IROC) participated in a voluntary, web‐based survey between 2019 and 2020. Centers provided information pertaining to frequency and timing of routine DSA surveillance and theoretical management of dnDSA development in the setting of stable graft function. Results: 29/30 IROC centers responded to the survey. Among the participating centers, screening for DSA occurs, on average, every 3 months for the first 12 months post‐transplant. Antibody mean fluorescent intensity and trend most frequently directed changes in patient management. Increased creatinine above baseline was reported by all centers as an indication for DSA assessment outside of routine surveillance testing. 24/29 centers would continue to monitor DSA and/or intensify immunosuppression after detection of antibodies in the setting of stable graft function. In addition to enhanced monitoring, 10/29 centers reported performing an allograft biopsy upon detection of dnDSA, even in the setting of stable graft function. Conclusions: This descriptive report is the largest reported survey of pediatric transplant nephrologist practice patterns on this topic and provides a reference for monitoring dnDSA in the pediatric kidney transplant population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Envarsus XR® (LCPT), a once daily dosage formulation of tacrolimus, is an FDA‐approved medication in adult renal transplant recipients (RTRs). There are limited data on its pharmacokinetics (PK) in adolescent RTRs. We report here the PK profile of LCPT in adolescent RTRs. Methods: The dose of LCPT was determined using a dose conversion ratio targeting 0.7 relative to the total daily immediate‐release tacrolimus (IR‐Tac) dose. On day 7 after converting to LCPT, patients had an abbreviated PK assessment with sampling at: 0 h (pre‐dose), 8‐, and 12‐h post‐dose. The PK data analysis was performed using Bayesian estimators. Our results were compared to those of published adult PK data for LCPT and pediatric PK data for IR‐Tac and extended release tacrolimus (ER‐Tac) formulation (Advagraf). Results: PK data from three adolescent patients on LCPT were evaluated. The mean (±SD) area under the time–concentration curve (AUC) was 240 (±20.22) h*ng/mL. The mean Tmax was 9.01 ± 2.12 h, and the % fluctuation was 77.71 ± 3.96%. The AUC, Tmax, and % fluctuation were similar to reported results in adult patients taking LCPT. The AUC was higher and the Tmax was longer than what has been reported in pediatric patients taking IR‐Tac and ER‐Tac. In addition, the LCPT group showed a lower % fluctuation than patients receiving ER‐Tac. Conclusion: The PK evaluation of LCPT in adolescent RTRs showed similar results to adults. Adolescents taking LCPT had a higher AUC, a more attenuated Tmax, and a lower fluctuation than that seen with ER‐Tac in pediatrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidney transplantation (KTx) requires immunosuppressive drugs such as Tacrolimus (TAC) which is mainly metabolized by CYP3A5. TAC is routinely monitored by trough levels (C0) although it has not shown to be a reliable marker. The area-under-curve (AUC) is a more realistic measure of drug exposure, but sampling is challenging in pediatric patients. Limited-sampling strategies (LSS) have been developed to estimate AUC. Herein, we aimed to determine AUC(0-24) and CYP3A5 genotype in Chilean pediatric kidney recipients using extended-release TAC, to evaluate different LSS-AUC(0-24) formulas and dose requirements. Patients and methods: We analyzed pediatric kidney recipients using different extended-release TAC brands to determine their trapezoidal AUC(0-24) and CYP3A5 genotypes (SNP rs776746). Daily TAC dose (TAC-D mg/kg) and AUC(0-24) normalized by dose were compared between CYP3A5 expressors (*1/*1 and *1/*3) and non-expressors (*3/*3). We evaluated the single and combined time-points to identify the best LSS-AUC(0-24) model. We compared the performance of this model with two pediatric LSS-AUC(0-24) equations for clinical validation. Results: Fifty-one pharmacokinetic profiles were obtained from kidney recipients (age 13.1 ± 2.9 years). When normalizing AUC(0-24) by TAC-D significant differences were found between CYP3A5 expressors and non-expressors (1701.9 vs. 2718.1 ng*h/mL/mg/kg, p < 0.05). C0 had a poor fit with AUC(0-24) (r2 = 0.5011). The model which included C0, C1 and C4, showed the best performance to predict LSS-AUC(0-24) (r2 = 0.8765) and yielded the lowest precision error (7.1% ± 6.4%) with the lowest fraction (9.8%) of deviated AUC(0-24), in comparison to other LSS equations. Conclusion: Estimation of LSS-AUC(0-24) with 3 time-points is an advisable and clinically useful option for pediatric kidney recipients using extended-release TAC to provide better guidance of decisions if toxicity or drug inefficacy is suspected. The different CYP3A5 genotypes associated with variable dose requirements reinforce considering genotyping before KTx. Further multi-centric studies with admixed cohorts are needed to determine the short- and long-term clinical benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Donor derived infections (DDIs) in pediatric kidney transplant recipients remain challenging to diagnose and can result in serious morbidity and mortality. This review summarizes the current guidelines and recommendations for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of unexpected DDIs in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. We provide a contemporary overview of DDI terminology, surveillance, epidemiology, and recommended approaches for assessing these rare events with an emphasis on the pediatric recipient. To address prevention and risk mitigation, important aspects of donor and pediatric candidate evaluations are reviewed, including current Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and American Society of Transplantation (AST) recommendations. Common unexpected DDI encountered by pediatric transplant teams including multi-drug resistant organisms, tuberculosis, syphilis, West Nile Virus, toxoplasmosis, Chagas disease, strongyloidiasis, candidiasis, histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, and emerging infections such as COVID-19 are discussed in detail. Finally, we consider the general challenges with management of DDIs and share our experience with a novel application of next generation sequencing (NGS) of microbial cell-free DNA that will likely define a future direction in this field.

Background: Kidney transplantation (KTx) requires immunosuppressive drugs such as Tacrolimus (TAC) which is mainly metabolized by CYP3A5. TAC is routinely monitored by trough levels (C0) although it has not shown to be a reliable marker. The area-under-curve (AUC) is a more realistic measure of drug exposure, but sampling is challenging in pediatric patients. Limited-sampling strategies (LSS) have been developed to estimate AUC. Herein, we aimed to determine AUC(0–24) and CYP3A5 genotype in Chilean pediatric kidney recipients using extended-release TAC, to evaluate different LSS-AUC(0–24) formulas and dose requirements.Patients and methods: We analyzed pediatric kidney recipients using different extended-release TAC brands to determine their trapezoidal AUC(0–24) and CYP3A5 genotypes (SNP rs776746). Daily TAC dose (TAC-D mg/kg) and AUC(0–24) normalized by dose were compared between CYP3A5 expressors (*1/*1 and *1/*3) and non-expressors (*3/*3). We evaluated the single and combined time-points to identify the best LSS-AUC(0–24) model. We compared the performance of this model with two pediatric LSS-AUC(0–24) equations for clinical validation.Results: Fifty-one pharmacokinetic profiles were obtained from kidney recipients (age 13.1 ± 2.9 years). When normalizing AUC(0–24) by TAC-D significant differences were found between CYP3A5 expressors and non-expressors (1701.9 vs. 2718.1 ng*h/mL/mg/kg, p < 0.05). C0 had a poor fit with AUC(0–24) (r2 = 0.5011). The model which included C0, C1 and C4, showed the best performance to predict LSS-AUC(0–24) (r2 = 0.8765) and yielded the lowest precision error (7.1% ± 6.4%) with the lowest fraction (9.8%) of deviated AUC(0–24), in comparison to other LSS equations.Conclusion: Estimation of LSS-AUC(0–24) with 3 time-points is an advisable and clinically useful option for pediatric kidney recipients using extended-release TAC to provide better guidance of decisions if toxicity or drug inefficacy is suspected. The different CYP3A5 genotypes associated with variable dose requirements reinforce considering genotyping before KTx. Further multi-centric studies with admixed cohorts are needed to determine the short- and long-term clinical benefits.

Background: Racial disparities in access to kidney transplantation (KT) have been described among children with end-stage renal disease in the United States. It has been suggested that these disparities stem from a combination of clinical and socioeconomic factors., Methods: We evaluated data from the US Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) of all pediatric (< 18 years old) KT recipients from 1999 to 2014 and compared outcomes by race or ethnicity: Hispanic, non-Hispanic Whites (NHW), and non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB). We assessed 1- and 5-year patient survival (PS) and death-censored graft survival (DCGS) using Kaplan-Meier survival cures. Multivariate logistic regressions of graft failure by 1 and 5 years examined effects of race/ethnicity by controlling for donor and recipient characteristics including living or deceased donor, recipient age, BMI, re-transplant status, cPRA, HLA mismatch, graft rejection, cold ischemia time (CIT), and type of insurance., Results: During the 15-year period, 11 740 (6596 NHW, 2306 NHB, and 2838 Hispanic) pediatric KT recipients were performed in the United States. Compared to NHW (250 ± 335 days), NHB (293 ± 348; p < 0.001) and Hispanics (322 ± 353; p < 0.001) spent more time on the waitlist. One-year PS for NHW, NHB, and Hispanics was 98.6%, 98.6%, and 99.0%, respectively; one-year DCGS was 95.5%, 93.7%, and 96.0%, respectively. Five-year PS for NHW, NHB, and Hispanics was 95.5%, 93.1%, and 95.5%, respectively; five-year DCGS was 80.7%, 60.3%, and 76.3%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that higher recipient cPRA (OR 1.0, 95% CI 1.0-1.0; p = 0.005), greater HLA mismatch (OR 1.1, 95% 1.0-1.3; p = 0.008), rejection (OR 3.9, 95% CI 2.1-7.0; p < 0.001), and secondary kidney transplantation (OR 15.0, 95% CI 11.5-19.4; p < 0.001) were associated with 1-year graft loss; older recipient age (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.1-1.1; p < 0.001), higher recipient cPRA (OR 1.0, 95% CI 1.0-1.0; p < 0.001), greater HLA mismatch (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.1; p = 0.002), rejection (OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.3-3.0; p = 0.001), and secondary kidney transplantation (OR 11.2, 95% CI 9.6-13.0; p < 0.001) were predictive of 5-year graft loss. Patients with public insurance have higher risks of 1-year and 5-year graft loss (p < 0.001) than those with private insurance payers., Conclusion: Racial and ethnic minority children in the United States have lower access to KT with clinical outcomes suggesting a disparate trajectory. NHB demonstrate unfavorable DCGS while Hispanic children have comparable or better DCGS and PS outcomes compared to NHW. Elucidating the clinical or socioeconomic roots of these differences may identify mitigating measures that can improve KT outcomes for these minoritized populations., (© 2025 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Blood group incompatibility previously represented an obstacle to living related donor (LRD) options; desensitization modalities have expanded LRD options. ABO-incompatible kidney transplants have been successful in adults and pediatric liver transplants, but to date not yet in pediatric kidney transplants in South Africa., Case Report: Patient X is a 5 year old male with end-stage kidney failure due to Posterior Urethral Valves, requiring peritoneal dialysis pre-transplant. His sister was the only suitable LRD. The recipient was blood group A+; donor was blood group B+; HLA match was 5/10, nil HLA donor specific antibodies and negative CDC and Flow crossmatches. The recipients' anti-B titer pre-transplant was a maximum of 1:8. A pre-emptive desensitization dose of Rituximab (375 mg/m 2 ) was administered 4 weeks before transplant. The anti-B titer decreased to 1:2 following the Rituximab (CD19% of 0%). Post-transplant, the Anti-B titers were monitored for the first 10 days, with a maximum titer of 1:8 (immunoadsorbtion therapy available if > 1:16, or if associated graft dysfunction). Immunosuppressant protocol consisted of Basiliximab, Tacrolimus, Azathioprine, and Prednisone. Post-transplant, the creatinine improved to 60-70 μmol/L at Week 1. 7 weeks post-transplant, serum creatinine increased > 10% with an antibody titer of 1:2. Kidney biopsy showed CNI-related toxicity; renal function improved with reduction in Tacrolimus doses. Kidney function remains stable 1-year post-transplant with nil episodes of rejection., Conclusion: This is the first ABO-incompatible kidney transplant in a pediatric patient in South Africa and represents an important step in expanding the pool of potential living related donors., (© 2024 The Author(s). Pediatric Transplantation published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is increasing in prevalence due to the growing opioid epidemic; however, its impact on pediatric kidney transplantation is unknown. This study compared kidney transplant outcomes between HCV-positive and propensity-score-weighted HCV-negative pediatric recipients. It also examined HCV-positive kidney utilization for pediatric transplantation in the United States. We used the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients to identify pediatric kidney transplants (<18 years) performed between 4/1/1994 and 12/1/2022. We used propensity-score weighting to create a group of HCV-negative recipients with characteristics similar to HCV-positive recipients. Odds ratios (OR) for delayed graft function (DGF) and hazard ratios (HR) for patient and graft survival were estimated using logistic and Cox regression models. We found similar DGF rates (13.9% vs. 10.3%, p=0.14) and no difference in graft (HR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.83-1.31, p=0.71; 10-year survival 54.9% vs. 54.5%) or patient survival (HR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.58-1.95, p=0.84; 10-year survival 93.9% vs. 92.0%) between the groups. Four HCV-positive (2.5%), 3 HCV-negative children (0.02%), and 1 (0.05%) child with unknown HCV status received HCV-positive kidneys. We observed no increased risk of graft loss or death in children with HCV infection. The use of HCV-positive donors for pediatric kidney transplantation is rare., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2025 American Society of Transplantation & American Society of Transplant Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

BackgroundCytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the most frequent opportunistic infections in kidney transplant (KT) recipients and is a risk factor for patient and graft survival after KT. Center-to-center variation, optimal prevention and treatment strategies in pediatric KT are currently unknown. This survey aimed to assess current CMV prevention and treatment strategies used among French pediatric KT centers.MethodsA web-based survey was sent to all 13 French pediatric kidney transplantation centers.ResultsTwelve (92%) centers responded to the survey. All centers used prophylaxis for the donor-positive/recipient-negative (D+/R-) group. For R + patients, 54% used prophylaxis, 37% used a pre-emptive strategy. In the low-risk group, D-/R-, 50% used a pre-emptive approach and 50% had no specific prevention strategy. The antiviral used by all centers for prophylaxis was valganciclovir (VGCV). The duration of prophylaxis varied from 3 to 7 months and the duration of viral load monitoring varied from 6 months to indefinitely. No center used a hybrid/sequential approach. For the treatment of CMV DNAemia, VGCV or intravenous GCV were used. Therapeutic drug monitoring of VGCV was performed in 5 centers (42%). Five centers reported drug resistance. Eight centers (67%) administered VGCV during the treatment of acute graft rejection.ConclusionsThere is uniformity in CMV management in some areas among pediatric KT centers in France but not in others which remain diverse and are not up to date with current guidelines, suggesting unnecessary variation which could be reduced with better evidence to inform practice.

Background: Concern about SARS‐CoV‐2 infection has increased over the possible effects on immunocompromised patients. Among them, recipients of solid organ transplantation deserve special attention. Data from the adult population suggest they may be at high risk for developing severe COVID‐19, but little data are available for pediatric solid organ transplantation recipients. Methods: From March 2020 to April 2021, KT recipients aged <21 years, routinely managed at our center, who underwent RT‐PCR testing with nasopharyngeal swabs to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, were studied. Tests were performed according to clinical and/or epidemiological criteria. Results: One hundred one transplanted patients were managed at our center during the observation period. Among this population, 57 patients were tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with a RT‐PCR test and were subsequently enrolled. A total of 111 swabs were performed. Twelve out of the 57 patients tested (21.1%) had a positive RT‐PCR test result. Among the positive patients, eight were symptomatic (66.7%). Median duration of symptoms and RT‐PCR positivity was two days (IQR 1–2.25) and 17 days (IQR 11–27.25), respectively. No patients required specific treatment or IS therapy reduction; no one was admitted to hospital. Conclusions: Our data show that pediatric renal transplant recipients are at low risk of clinically relevant COVID‐19, as is the healthy age‐related population. On the contrary, our results differed substantially from those seen in adult SOT recipient populations that have a high incidence and an even earlier and higher mortality rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Some adult transplant surgeons consider transplant to be contraindicated in patients receiving palliative care (PC). Little is known about pediatric transplant surgeons' attitudes toward PC. We sought to ascertain pediatric kidney transplant surgeons' perspectives regarding the routine integration of PC for children with chronic kidney disease., Method: We administered a cross-sectional web-based survey to members of the American Society of Transplant Surgeons listserv in summer 2021. We adapted the survey from the previously validated Provider Survey about Palliative Care for Children with Heart Disease and pretested it with representative kidney transplant surgeons, nephrologists, and PC physicians; queries related to PC included institutional and personal experience, knowledge, and education. Data were summarized descriptively., Results: There were 21 participants. Over half of the respondents were white (57%) males (62%), practicing in urban, academic centers (94%). Although 67% of the participants practiced in an institution with a subspecialty PC team, 24% were unsure if such a team existed in their institution. A minority (19%) perceived PC consultation and kidney transplant to be mutually exclusive. Most surgeons (86%) believed that PC should not be restricted to when a child is dying, and 59% reported that PC consultation should happen at diagnosis for life-threatening conditions. However, surgeons indicated that PC consultation is rarely utilized for pediatric kidney transplant recipients. Transplant surgeons expressed a desire for additional PC-focused training and willingness to engage in additional education., Conclusions: Although a minority of pediatric transplant surgeons perceived PC to be contraindicated for kidney transplant, most indicated openness to PC engagement for their patients., (© 2025 The Author(s). Pediatric Transplantation published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Posttransplant anemia (PTA) is a common complication of pediatric kidney transplantation, with a prevalence ranging from 22 to 85%. PTA is categorized as early (within 6 months posttransplant) and late (>6 months posttransplant). Early PTA is typically associated with surgical blood losses and iron deficiency. Late PTA primarily results from graft dysfunction; however, iron deficiency, drug toxicity, and posttransplant inflammation also play a role. PTA is more severe compared with the anemia in glomerular-filtration-rate matched patients with native chronic kidney disease. Treatment of PTA is directed toward the underlying cause. Erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESA) are effective; however, their use is limited in the transplant setting. Timely diagnosis and treatment of PTA are vital to prevent long-term adverse outcomes in pediatric transplant recipients.

Background: Neutropenia is common in the first year after pediatric kidney transplant and is associated with an increased risk of infection, allograft loss, and death. Granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) increases neutrophil production, but its use in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients remains largely undescribed. Methods: We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study of children with neutropenia within the first 180 days after kidney transplant. Multivariable linear regression and Poisson regression were used to assess duration of neutropenia and incidence of hospitalization, infection, and rejection. Results: Of 341 neutropenic patients, 83 received G‐CSF during their first episode of neutropenia. Median dose of G‐CSF was 5 mcg/kg for 3 (IQR 2–7) doses. G‐CSF use was associated with transplant center, induction immunosuppression, steroid‐free maintenance immunosuppression, hospitalization, and decreases in mycophenolate mofetil, valganciclovir, and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole dosing. Absolute neutrophil count nadir was also significantly lower among those treated with G‐CSF. G‐CSF use was not associated with a shorter duration of neutropenia (p =.313) and was associated with a higher rate of neutropenia relapse (p =.002) in adjusted analysis. G‐CSF use was associated with a decreased risk of hospitalization (aIRR 0.25 (95%CI 0.12–0.53) p <.001) but there was no association with incidence of bacterial infection or rejection within 90 days of neutropenic episode. Conclusion: G‐CSF use for neutropenia in pediatric kidney transplant recipients did not shorten the overall duration of neutropenia but was associated with lower risk of hospitalization. Prospective studies are needed to determine which patients may benefit from G‐CSF treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidney allograft torsion is a rare complication of kidney transplant that can lead to allograft loss from prolonged ischemia if not quickly corrected with detorsion and nephropexy. We report a case of late intraperitoneal renal allograft torsion in a pediatric transplant recipient. Case Report: The patient is a 7‐year‐old male with a history of end‐stage renal disease secondary to renal dysplasia in the setting of bilateral high‐grade vesicoureteral reflux. He underwent bilateral native nephrectomies for recurrent pyelonephritis and right ureteral kink with urinary tract obstruction. Torsion occurred 3 years after transplant in the setting of one day of emesis, loose stool, severe abdominal pain, and decreased urine output. Diagnosis of transplant torsion was suspected on non‐contrast CT scan done after transplant Doppler ultrasound showed no flow to the allograft. The CT scan showed that the kidney had been medialized and renal hilum was flipped from the expected orientation. The patient required a transplant nephrectomy. Conclusions: Renal transplant torsion is a rare event but should be suspected in any renal transplant recipient with acute onset of abdominal pain, acute kidney injury, and decreased urine output, regardless of length of time from transplantation. Patients suspected to have renal torsion should be evaluated emergently with a transplant ultrasound Doppler. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patient and graft survival rates after pediatric kidney transplantation have improved recently. Therefore, the quality of life or social outcome after kidney transplantation has become important for patients and their families. Methods: Patients who underwent kidney transplantation at < 18 years old and were observed for > 10 years were included in this study. The median age at first kidney transplantation was 9.2 (interquartile range [IQR] = 5.6–13.0) years; there were 56 males and 50 females. The median age at last follow-up was 29.9 (IQR = 22.2–36.0) years. We evaluated the patients' renal function, growth, professional status, and marital status at the last follow-up. Results: The percentage of functioning grafts at the last follow-up was 81.1%; 73 patients (68.9%) had a first graft. The mean estimated GFR was 51.0 ± 20.5 mL/min/1.73 m2. Twenty patients received dialysis for graft failure. The mean final heights of the males and females were 158.1 ± 9.2 cm (− 2.2 standard deviations) and 149.1 ± 6.4 cm (− 1.7 standard deviations), respectively. Excluding 23 students, 63 patients (75.9%) were employed. Office worker was the most common profession. Twelve patients (14.5%) were unemployed. Of patients > 20 years old, 14 (16.7%), three males and 11 females, were married. Five females had one child each. Conclusions: The graft survival rate was favorable. The final height was short, particularly in male. The rate of employment was relatively high. The rate of marriage and having children were still low. Improving the social outcome is an important problem after pediatric kidney transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Subacute allograft rejection (SAR) results in chronic allograft nephropathy and decreased allograft survival. Protocol biopsies (PB) are performed in many top centers to identify SAR. Our study aimed to evaluate the rate of SAR detected in PB at our single center. Methods Retrospective review of 38 pediatric patients (pts) who received a kidney allograft from April 2014 through January 2018. Induction immunosuppression consisted of basiliximab (n = 25). High risk pts received antithymocyte globulin (n = 13). Tacrolimus-based triple drug maintenance immunosuppression was used. PBs were performed 3–6 months after transplant. Pathology was evaluated by trained pathologists and classified using Banff criteria. Results Thirty-eight pts were included. Five pts underwent biopsy before 3 months due to elevated creatinine or BK viremia. Thirty-three pts underwent PB 12–23 weeks after transplant. Six pts had elevated creatinine at the time of PB; only 1/6 biopsies showed acute rejection. Of the remaining 27 PBs, only 1/27 showed acute rejection. The total rejection rate at 6 months post-transplant was 5.26%, with a SAR rate of 3.7%. Conclusions These findings do not substantiate early PB at our institution. Our study suggests that perhaps later time points for PB when immunosuppressive meds are at their lowest levels or use of novel biomarkers as an initial screen for biopsy in patients at risk for SAR would be more informative.

• Valacyclovir is an effective anti-viral prophylaxis for CMV after adult and pediatric kidney transplant. • Valacyclovir is better tolerated with less dose-limiting leucopenia, particularly in pediatrics. • Valacyclovir is not an effective anti-viral prophylaxis for EBV after adult and pediatric kidney transplant. • In kidney recipients with inability to tolerate valganciclovir due to dose-limiting side effects, valacyclovir is a viable option. Valganciclovir (valG), a cytomegalovirus (CMV) prophylactic agent, has dose-limiting side effects. The tolerability and effectiveness of valacyclovir (valA) as CMV prophylaxis is unknown. We conducted a randomized, open-label, single-center trial of valA versus valG for all posttransplant CMV prophylaxis in adult and pediatric kidney recipients. Participants were randomly assigned to receive valA or valG. Primary endpoints were the incidence of CMV viremia and side-effect related drug reduction with secondary assessment of incidence of EBV viremia. Of the 137 sequential kidney transplant recipients enrolled, 26 % were positive and negative for CMV antibody in donor and recipient respectively. The incidence of CMV viremia (4 of 71 [6 %]; 8 of 67 [12 %] P = 0.23), time to viremia (P = 0.16) and area under CMV viral load time curve (P = 0.19) were not significantly different. ValG participants were significantly more likely to require side-effect related dose reduction (15/71 [21 %] versus 1/66 [2 %] P = 0.0003). Leukopenia was the most common reason for valG dose reduction and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor was utilized for leukopenia recovery more frequently (25 % in valG vs 5 % in valA: P = 0.0007). Incidence of EBV viremia was not significantly different. ValA has significantly less dose-limiting side effects than valG. In our study population, a significant increase in CMV viremia was not observed, in adults and children after kidney transplant, compared to valG. NCT01329185 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The clinical course of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the pediatric kidney transplant population is not well described. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of a pediatric kidney transplant population at a New York transplant center. Baseline characteristics and clinical course of patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity (Ab or PCR) were described, and comparison between COVID‐positive and COVID‐negative transplant patients was performed. Results: Twenty‐two patients had COVID‐19 IgG testing performed, eight of whom also had PCR testing. 23% of our cohort had evidence of COVID‐19 infection. Four patients had positive IgG only, and one patient had a positive PCR. All five patients with a positive COVID test were female. Two patients had COVID‐19 symptoms, which were mild. Of the symptomatic patients, one had a positive PCR at time of symptoms, while the other had a negative PCR during symptoms but subsequently had positive IgG. As compared to patients with COVID‐19 negative results, those with COVID‐19 positivity were significantly more likely to have a known COVID‐19 exposure, and were also more likely to be female. There was no significant difference in time from transplant between the groups. Those in the COVID‐positive group had higher baseline antimetabolite dose and CNI troughs, although these did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Pediatric kidney transplant recipients are at risk for development of COVID‐19 infection. While this population may be more at risk for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection due to their immunosuppressed status, their clinical course appears mild and similar to a healthy pediatric population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pediatric kidney transplant recipients generally have good outcomes post‐transplantation. However, the younger age and longer life span after transplantation in the pediatric population make understanding the multifactorial nature of long‐term graft survival critical. This investigation analyzes factors associated with 10‐year survival to identify areas for improvement in patient care. Kaplan‐Meier with log‐rank test and univariable and multivariable logistic regression methods were used to retrospectively analyze 7785 kidney transplant recipients under the age of 18 years from January 1, 1998, until March 9, 2008, using United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) data. Our end‐point was death‐censored 10‐year graft survival after excluding recipients whose grafts failed within one year of transplant. Recipients aged 5–18 years had lower 10‐year graft survival, which worsened as age increased: 5–9 years (OR: 0.66; CI: 0.52–0.83), 10–14 years (OR: 0.43; CI: 0.33–0.55), and 15–18 years (OR: 0.34; CI: 0.26–0.44). Recipient African American ethnicity (OR: 0.67; CI: 0.58–0.78) and Hispanic donor ethnicity (OR: 0.82; CI: 0.72–0.94) had worse outcomes than other donor and recipient ethnicities, as did patients on dialysis at the time of transplant (OR: 0.82; CI: 0.73–0.91). Recipient private insurance status (OR: 1.35; CI: 1.22–1.50) was protective for 10‐year graft survival. By establishing the role of age, race, and insurance status on long‐term graft survival, we hope to guide clinicians in identifying patients at high risk for graft failure. This study highlights the need for increased allocation of resources and medical care to reduce the disparity in outcomes for certain patient populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare life‐threatening anesthetic complication with high mortality rates. MH during adult kidney transplant has been reported previously. However, the occurrence of MH after multiple previous uneventful anesthetic exposures in a pediatric kidney transplant recipient is rare. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of MH in a child undergoing a live donor kidney transplant. The approaches for addressing perioperative challenges and ethical dilemmas to ensure successful outcomes are described. The recipient, a 5‐year‐old male child, weighing 20 kg, with a history of multiple previous uneventful anesthetic exposures, underwent live donor kidney transplant for end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). Post‐reperfusion he developed fulminant MH with rapidly progressing hyperthermia, hypercarbia, tachycardia, and muscle rigidity, which in addition to complicating the medical management raised several ethical issues as well. MH was successfully managed with dantrolene and other supportive measures. Judicious use of inotropes and fluids helped maintain stable hemodynamics and graft perfusion. Management of MH is complicated in a pediatric patient with ESRD undergoing live donor kidney transplant. Preference for non‐depolarizing muscle relaxants instead of succinylcholine during endotracheal intubation can result in delayed onset of clinical manifestations. However, the metabolic complications may be more severe due to preexisting electrolyte and acid‐base disturbances. Maintaining optimal graft perfusion while simultaneously combating MH can be very challenging in a child. Since the allograft is a precious commodity, critical decisions regarding the harvesting of the donor kidney need to be well thought out. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with dantrolene are critical to preserving graft function and the recipient's life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anemia is common but under-diagnosed and often inadequately treated in KTX recipients. ID is the major cause of early-onset anemia. We introduced routine use of parenteral (IV) iron in patients (2-18 years) who had KTX between January 2011 and December 2015. We explored the clinical benefits of this practice by comparing the iron-treated subjects [TX] with historical controls who had KTX between 2005 and 2010. The prevalence of anemia at 6 months (early-onset) for the cohort (both the study group and controls) was 55% and for anemia at 12 months (late-onset) was 60%. Although cause-effect relationship may not be proven in a retrospective study design, there was a significant greater frequency of ID and anemia at 3 (P < .02) and 6 months (P < .04), and a reduced allograft function (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) at 12 (P = .03) and 24 months (P = .04) of KTX in the control arm. Furthermore, a greater proportion of the control arm required either ESA (P = .03) or blood transfusion (P = .04) as a rescue treatment for moderate-to-severe anemia. In conclusion, routine parenteral iron treatment was associated with a lower prevalence of early- and lateonset anemia, and a lower requirement for either ESA rescue or blood transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much is still unknown about LUT function after receiving renal graft. Graft function was the main focus of different studies discussing the same issue. However, these studies ignored the effects of the graft on lower tract function and more demand for bladder cycling and growth of the child. Therefore, we aimed at evaluating the LUT function after RT into patients with LUTD. We enrolled a retrospective cohort of 83 live renal transplant children with LUTD. The 44 patients in Group (A) had a defunctionalized bladder, and the 39 patients in Group (B) had underlying LUT pathology. All patients had clinical and urodynamic evaluation of LUT functions at least 1 year after RT. We found that the improvement in patients with impaired bladder compliance was 73% in Group (A) and 60% in Group (B), with no statistically significant difference between the study groups. In Group (B), there was statistically significant worsening of MFP (8.4%) and mean PVR (79.9%) after RT. In Group (A), mild but stable significant improvement of all clinical and urodynamic parameters was observed. Serum creatinine was significantly worse in patients with pathological LUTD compared with those with defunctionalized bladder but without significant effect on graft survival. All LUT variables seemed to have no adverse effect on graft survival except for use of CIC and augmented bladder. Incident UTI independent of LUT variables accounted for 20% of graft creatinine change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As of 2021, more than 6000 children and youth in Canada were living with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), for which kidney transplantation is considered the preferred treatment by health professionals. Research shows that living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT) has superior allograft and recipient survival compared to deceased donor kidney transplantation (DDKT). However, in a pediatric setting, the choice of LDKT or DDKT is a summative consideration of factors weighed carefully by the patient's family, health care team, and patient. Decision-making surrounding transplantation may be more complex for racial and ethnic minorities as culturally specific values and beliefs are interwoven within dominant understandings and concepts of health and accepted models of health care. For example, Chinese Canadians have an increased risk of ESKD, yet reduced access to LDKT compared to White patients, despite being the largest visible minority population in Canada., Objective: The objective of this qualitative study is to deepen our understandings of the decision-making process surrounding DDKT versus LDKT among parents of Chinese Canadian pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD)., Design: Qualitative descriptive study design., Setting: The Nephrology Program at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada., Participants: Caregivers of Chinese Canadian patients with CKD, 18 years of age or older, and who spoke English, Cantonese, or Mandarin., Methods: One-on-one, semistructured interviews were conducted virtually, by a member of the research team and were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to explore participants' shared experience., Results: Seven interviews were conducted with 6 mothers and 1 father of 6 Chinese Canadian pediatric patients with CKD: 4 patients had undergone a kidney transplant, and 2 were not yet listed for transplant. Analysis of data highlighted that cultural influences affected whether parents shared with others about their child's illness and experience. The cultural understanding that it is inappropriate to burden others contributed to the creation of an isolating experience for participants. Cultural influences also impacted whether parents asked others to be a living donor as participants articulated this would place a physical burden on the living donor (e.g., potential risk to their health) and an emotional burden on the participant as they would be indebted to a willing donor. Ultimately, parents' decision to choose DDKT or LDKT for their patient-child was a result of evaluating both options carefully and within an understanding that the ideal treatment choice reflected what was best for all family members., Limitations: Findings reflect experiences of a small sample from a single recruitment site which may limit transferability., Conclusions: Parents in this study felt that they had access to the necessary evidence-based information to make an informed decision about the choice of DDKT versus LDKT for their child. Participant narratives described feeling isolated within cultural communities of family and friends and participants' suggestion of benefiting from increased support may guide future research directions. Practitioners can offer direct and indirect support to families, with recognition of the importance of cultural values and family-centered care on decision-making within families. Opportunities are needed for accessible, virtual social support platforms to increase parental feelings of culturally mediated peer support from parents who share similar experiences., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2024.)

Individuals may vary in their responses to treatment, and identification of subgroups differentially affected by a treatment is an important issue in medical research. The risk of misleading subgroup analyses has become well known, and some exploratory analyses can be helpful in clarifying how covariates potentially interact with the treatment. Motivated by a real data study of pediatric kidney transplant, we consider a semiparametric Bayesian latent model and examine its utility for an exploratory subgroup effect analysis using secondary data. The proposed method is concerned with a clinical setting where the number of subgroups is much smaller than that of potential predictors and subgroups are only latently associated with observed covariates. The semiparametric model is flexible in capturing the latent structure driven by data rather than dictated by parametric modeling assumptions. Since it is difficult to correctly specify the conditional relationship between the response and a large number of confounders in modeling, we use propensity score matching to improve the model robustness by balancing the covariates distribution. Simulation studies show that the proposed analysis can find the latent subgrouping structure and, with propensity score matching adjustment, yield robust estimates even when the outcome model is misspecified. In the real data analysis, the proposed analysis reports significant subgroup effects on steroid avoidance in kidney transplant patients, whereas standard proportional hazards regression analysis does not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension after pediatric renal transplant is a common and important risk factor for graft loss and patient survival. The mechanism of post kidney transplant hypertension is complex and multifactorial. Control of blood pressure in renal transplant patients is important but often times blood pressures remain uncontrolled. The management of hypertension and obesity in pediatric kidney transplant patients is based on the pathophysiology. Compared to the general pediatric hypertensive population, special attention needs to be focused on the additional impact of immunosuppressive medications side effects and interactions, recurrent disease, and donor and recipient comorbidities such as obesity on blood pressure control with thoughtful consideration of the risk of graft failure. In general, there is a need for prospective studies in pediatric kidney transplant patients to understand the pathophysiology of hypertension and obesity and the appropriate approach to achieve a balance between the primary need to avoid rejection and the need to lower blood pressure and prevent obesity.