Abstract
Up to 63% of renal transplant patients die as a result of cardiovascular disease (1). Among other factors, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and posttransplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) contribute to this cardiovascular mortality (2). Most renal transplants are performed with cyclosporine- or tacrolimus-based immunosuppression. Compared with cyclosporine, tacrolimus has lower unfavorable effects on blood pressure, serum lipids, and renal function. In contrast, tacrolimus use is associated with a higher incidence of PTDM. There is substantial evidence from studies in the general population that diabetes is a strong risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and this has also been shown for renal transplant recipients (2).
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1465-1469 |
Journal | Transplantation |
Volume | 79 |
Issue number | 11 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2005 |