COVID-19 Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single Centre Study from Northern India

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. The pre-immunosuppressed state along with other existing co-morbidities can influence the outcomes of COVID-19 in transplant patients Material and Methods: This was a single centre prospective cohort study done in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), who underwent kidney transplantation (from December 2012 to November 2020), who were actively followed up at our centre and were diagnosed with COVID-19 disease between 1 April and 30 November 2020. Results: A total of 62 kidney-transplant recipients tested positive for COVID-19. Their median age was 39 (19-61). Males were predominantly infected (87.1%). Fever was the most common symptom (77.42%). Thirteen (20.9%) had mild form of disease, 32 (51.6%) had moderate form and 17 (27.4%) had severe disease. Based on initial symptom, 18 (29.03%) were given home treatment, 29 (46.7%) were treated in isolation wards and 15 (24.1%) were treated in intensive care unit. Decrease in the dose of immunosuppressant (anti-metabolites in 67.7%, calcineurin inhibitor in 22.5%) was predominantly carried out as the initial mode of treatment. Remdesivir in 64.5% and anticoagulant therapy in 54.84% were given as a modality of treatment. Mortality rate in our study was 14.5%. Conclusions: Patients of kidney transplant are at high risk of getting infected with COVID-19, due to their immunosuppressed state. Initial symptoms in KTRs with COVID-19 are similar to that of the general population. Mortality rate is comparatively higher in KTRs as compared to general population.

Automated summary

COVID-19 poses a significant risk to kidney transplant recipients, who may experience similar initial symptoms to the general population but have a higher mortality rate. Management typically involves reducing immunosuppressants and using antiviral treatments like remdesivir, with a focus on monitoring and treating severe cases in intensive care units.