Induction immunosuppression after lung transplantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of induction immunosuppression is to minimize the risk of early acute rejection, but its use after lung transplantation remains controversial. The purpose of this review is to examine the previous studies evaluating the impact of induction immunosuppression on clinical outcomes after lung transplantation. RECENT FINDINGS: There is a dearth of randomized controlled trials investigating the use of induction therapy after lung transplantation. Most studies have reported that induction therapy reduces the incidence of acute rejection and some have suggested that certain agents may reduce the incidence of chronic rejection. In addition, most studies have suggested that induction immunosuppression does not increase the risk of infectious or malignant complications. SUMMARY: Based on the available evidence, induction therapy after lung transplantation appears to reduce the incidence of acute rejection, but if this translates into a better long-term survival is unclear. Randomized controlled trials are needed to provide better insights into the efficacy and safety of induction therapy after lung transplantation.