What is acute rejection?
Acute rejection is an immune attack on a transplanted organ that typically develops over days to months after transplant, though it can occur later. It is usually divided into T-cell-mediated (cellular) rejection and antibody-mediated rejection. See Types of Rejection.
Can acute rejection be treated?
Many episodes of acute rejection can be treated, particularly when found early. Treatment depends on the type and severity of rejection and is decided by the transplant team. See Treatment of Transplant Rejection for an overview.
What symptoms should I report to my transplant team?
Rejection often causes no symptoms at first and is detected by blood tests or biopsy, which is why routine monitoring matters. Symptoms such as fever, pain or tenderness over the transplant, reduced urine output, swelling, shortness of breath, jaundice or flu-like illness should be reported to your transplant team promptly.
Why are anti-rejection medicines needed for life?
The immune system continues to recognize the donor organ as foreign. Immunosuppressive medicines reduce that response; stopping or missing doses is a common cause of rejection. See Immunosuppression in Transplantation.
Is this site medical advice?
No. It is general educational information. Always follow the advice of your own transplant team.
Who writes the content?
The site's editors, summarizing published medical literature. Articles are not individually reviewed by a physician. See About.
Can I ask about my own case?
Please do not send personal medical details. We cannot comment on individual symptoms, results or medications; contact your transplant team instead.
How do I report an error?
Use the contact page. We review reported errors and correct pages where needed.