Transplant Trial Watch

High-dose Erythropoietin Has No Effect on Short- or Long-term Graft Function following Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation.

Hafer C, Becker T, et al.

Kidney International, 81(3): 314-320, 2011.


Aims
To evaluate the effect of high-dose erythropoietin on graft function following deceased donor kidney transplantation.

Interventions
40,000 units recombinant human erythropoietin versus placebo.

Participants
90 patients undergoing deceased donor kidney transplantation

Outcomes
The primary endpoint was kidney function at 6 weeks after transplantation. Secondary endpoints were the incidence of delayed graft function and kidney function 12 months after transplantation. Other outcomes included patients and graft survival as well as adverse events.

Follow-up
12 months

CET Conclusions
High dose recombinant human erythropoietin administered to patients after kidney transplantation in comparison with a placebo showed no difference between the two groups at 6 weeks or 12 months in terms of renal function, the incidence of delayed graft function and protocol biopsies at 6 weeks and 6 months. Thus high dose recombinant human erythropoietin given after renal transplantation had no effect on long term graft function or histology.

Jadad score
4

Data analysis
Per protocol analysis

Allocation concealment
Yes

Trial registration
2006-002938-38 (EudraCT)

Funding source
Industry funded