Acute Antibody-mediated Rejection

Synonyms

AMR

Overview

Acute antibody-mediated rejection is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to severe allograft damage resulting in rapid loss of function and possible loss of the transplanted organ. Patients who are sensitized (have high levels of donor-specific-antibodies [DSAs]) are at high risk for developing acute AMR, may have difficulty finding a donor to who they are not sensitized, and therefore may never have the opportunity to have a life-saving transplant. 

Causes

The development of acute AMR is believed to be primarily a result of uncontrolled complement activation caused by DSAs. 

Treatment

Currently, there are no approved therapies for the prevention of acute AMR.