Background: Kidney transplantation enhances survival rates and quality of life for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, the long-term function of graft can be compromised. A common issue among transplant recipients is vitamin D deficiency, which arises due to the use of immunosuppressants and sun protection measures, potentially contributing to the deterioration of the allograft.
Objectives: To determine the incidence of vitamin D deficiency in kidney transplant recipients and its relationship with graft function.
Patients and methods: A prospective observational study, including 50 CKD patients undergoing kidney transplant collected from Internal Medicine department, Benha university and National Institute of Urology and Nephrology. Patients were grouped based on serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels into sufficient (≥30 ng/ml) and insufficient (<30 ng/ml) groups. Comprehensive evaluations were performed, including clinical exams and laboratory tests (CBC, CRP, blood urea, creatinine, eGFR, tacrolimus levels, and serum 25(OH)D levels) before and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months post-transplant.
Results: The study participants recipients with 36.13 ± 12.33 years in the sufficient vitamin D group and 26.76 ± 9.16 years in the insufficient group. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding serum urea, creatinine and eGFR over time. Serum urea significantly decreased at three and six months in the insufficient group (P = 0.003).
Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among kidney transplant recipients and affects graft function over time. Managing vitamin D levels could improve long-term graft outcomes, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and supplementation.