FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF TRANSPLANTED KIDNEY

The transplanted kidney is capable of functioning normally for a relatively short period of time. The diuresis observed immediately after transplantation is due to decreased sodium reabsorption by the tubular epithelium. The cause of this impairment in sodium conservation is unknown. The injurious effects of trauma or ischemia or both must be considered as principal causes. A characteristic functional pattern is present during acute rejection; however, it is often difficult to distinguish function changes due to rejection from those due to other processes. The functional integrity of the transplanted kidney over long periods still remains speculative. Since this represents the most important criterion determining the future of renal transplantation, the need for continued assessment of function in renal allografts cannot be overemphasized. © 1969, American Medical Association. All rights reserved.