Editorial: Metabolic Changes After Kidney Transplantation

摘要

Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice for those nearing or suffering from end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) (1). Transplantation provides a significant survival benefit, restoring kidney glomerular filtration and homeostatic functions, including fluid and electrolyte balance. Furthermore, it improves the quality of life, freeing patients from the obligation to have regular dialysis. Despite all the articulated benefits of kidney transplant recipients, the cardiovascular and overall mortality risk remains high compared to the general population (2). Indeed cardiovascular diseases (CVD) occur at high rates and are the most common cause of mortality in kidney transplant recipients (3). Both traditional and non-traditional risk factors of CVD in kidney transplant recipients contribute to morbidity and mortality. Some risk factors are modifiable, such as diet or behavioral, but other determinants are difficult or impossible to modify. In addition to describing various metabolic challenges associated with kidney transplantation, the article series explores the opportunity to intervene and improve kidney allograft and patient outcomes.