Quality of life in patients before and after kidney transplantation

The aim of the present study was to differentially determine quality of life (QOL) in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) after successful kidney transplantation (RT, Group A) compared with ESRD patients on a waiting list for RT (Group B), and with healthy controls (Group C) because opinions vary as to which treatment modality can best assure ESRD-patients a high QOL. Groups A, B and C each consisted of 149 persons, matched for age and gender. The Munich Quality of Life Dimensions List (MLDL) was used to measure global aspects of QOL. Distinct aspects of QOL were investigated by the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) and the Questionnaire for Social Support (K-22). Groups A and C reported similar QOL, which was significantly higher than in group B (p <.0001). This was particularly true for the physical and psychological status and daily activities, but not for the social situation. Groups A and B reported similar social support, which was significantly lower than in group C (p <.006). Both ESRD groups reported higher satisfaction with social support than healthy controls (p <.0001). Successful RT not only improved distinct aspects of QOL in patients with ESRD, but even put them on par with healthy controls regarding physical and psychological QOL. Lower social support and higher satisfaction with social support in both groups of ESRD patients should be evaluated further. From a clinical viewpoint, the improvement of physical and psychological aspects of QOL in RT patients is impressive; but more attention should be paid to constantly low social support in this group of patients. International multicenter longitudinal studies to investigate QOL in ESRD patients under different treatments are necessary.