A groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has revealed that kidney transplants between individuals with HIV are safe and effective. This significant finding could lead to expanded organ availability in the United States, benefiting not only those with HIV but also the broader population in need of transplants.
The research analyzed 198 kidney transplants performed across the U.S., comparing outcomes between recipients who received kidneys from HIV-positive donors and those from HIV-negative donors. The results showed high survival rates and low instances of organ rejection in both groups, highlighting the viability of using HIV-positive organs.
Participants were HIV-positive individuals with kidney failure who consented to receive kidneys from either HIV-positive or HIV-negative deceased donors. Over a follow-up period of up to four years, the study found that both groups experienced similar health outcomes. While some patients showed temporary increases in virus levels, these were managed effectively with consistent HIV medication adherence.
\"This demonstrates the safety and the fantastic outcomes that we're seeing from these transplants,\" stated Dorry Segev of NYU Langone Health, a co-author of the study.
The study builds on previous research dating back to 2010 in South Africa, where the safety of using HIV-positive donor organs was first demonstrated. The U.S. lifted a ban on such transplants in 2013, allowing for research studies that have since facilitated over 500 kidney and liver transplants from HIV-positive donors.
With the Department of Health and Human Services proposing a rule change to facilitate these transplants outside of research settings, the practice could become more widespread in the coming year. Elmi Muller of Stellenbosch University in South Africa noted in an editorial that this advancement could have \"far-reaching effects in many countries that do not perform transplantations with these organs,\" emphasizing the move towards greater fairness and equality for those living with HIV.
Reference(s):
New study shows kidney transplants safe between people with HIV
cgtn.com
