A review of kidney transplantation from HCV-viremic donors into HCV-negative recipients

Kidney Int. 2021 Dec;100(6):1190-1198. doi: 10.1016/j.kint.2021.06.034. Epub 2021 Jul 6.

Abstract

The safety and efficacy of direct-acting antiviral therapies have allowed the transplantation of organs from hepatitis C virus (HCV)-viremic donors into uninfected recipients. This novel strategy contrasts with the previous standard-of-care practice of limiting the transplantation of HCV infected-donor organs to HCV-infected recipients, or all too often, discarding viable organs. In this review, we summarize the published literature about the safety and feasibility of transplanting organs from HCV-viremic donors, the challenges that hinder wider adoption of this strategy, and future research needs.

Keywords: antiviral agents; deceased donor; hepacivirus; hepatitis C; kidney transplantation; tissue donor.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Hepacivirus
  • Hepatitis C* / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Kidney Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Tissue Donors

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents