A peculiar vacuolization in the kidney transplant of a child treated with tacrolimus

Clin Transplant. 2000:14 Suppl 3:30-2. doi: 10.1034/j.1399-0012.2000.0140s3030.x.

Abstract

Tacrolimus (TAC) is a useful immunosuppressive agent in the prevention of rejection. However, the blood level between its therapeutic and toxic levels is narrow such that its nephrotoxicity is a problem. Moreover, its bioavailability and pharmacokinetics are highly variable. We experienced a case of acute nephrotoxicity, in which the blood level rose about 10 times above the expected level. We found a peculiar vacuolization in the transplant biopsy specimen. This change showed a marked vacuolization of the tubular cells, suggestive of acute nephrotoxicity by TAC.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Biopsy
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / pharmacokinetics
  • Kidney Transplantation / pathology*
  • Kidney Tubules / drug effects*
  • Kidney Tubules / pathology*
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Tacrolimus / adverse effects*
  • Tacrolimus / pharmacokinetics
  • Vacuoles / pathology*

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Tacrolimus