A lifeline for those whose organs have failed due to sickness or trauma is organ transplantation, which has emerged as a great medical advancement. However, the delicate balance between the recipient's immune system and the foreign organ determines whether organ transplantation will be successful. Immunosuppressant medicines maintain this delicate balance since they prevent organ rejection and preserve the recipient's general health. 

Background

When a person undergoes an organ transplant that involves a kidney, heart, or liver transplant, their immune system sees the transplanted organ as foreign tissue. To defend against this perceived threat, the immune system mounts an immune response to destroy the transplanted organ. This process is known as rejection and can lead to the failure of the transplant.

Unfortunately, organ transplant rejection frequently results from the immune system mistaking a given organ for something alien and mounting an immunological reaction. 

Organ transplant rejection can occur in different forms: hyperacute rejection, acute rejection, and chronic rejection. Hyperacute rejection is rare and happens shortly after transplantation due to pre-existing antibodies in the recipient's blood. Acute rejection occurs within the first few months and involves immune cell activation against the organ. Chronic rejection is characterized by a gradual, slow decline in organ function over months or years.

Preventing organ rejection

1. Immunosuppressive medications

Immunosuppressive medication is largely used to prevent organ transplant rejection. These medications block the synthesis of immune molecules or target specific immune cells to reduce the recipient's immunological reaction to the transplanted organ.

One such medication that is widely used is tacrolimus. It is useful when the body rejects new organs like lungs, liver, or kidneys after an organ transplant. Prograf and Tacroren 1mg capsule contain the active compound tacrolimus that delivers the therapeutic effect. 

2. HLA Matching

Human leukocyte antigen is the major system involved in transplant acceptance and rejection. It is performed beforehand to check the match of the donor and recipient's antigen since a close match indicates a lower risk of rejection.

3. Pre-transplant Screening 

Various risk factors can lead to the development of organ rejection. It is better to identify everything before the transplant by pre-screening methods. The status of the immune system, antibodies that can reject the graft, and immune factors are assessed beforehand. 

4. Post-transplant Monitoring 

The after-effects of the transplant are also closely monitored to prevent any serious complications that arise. Regular patient follow-ups, blood test monitoring, CT and MRI scans are monitored regularly.

Tips for supporting immune health

• Maintain a balanced diet that includes fruits (apples), vegetables(onion), whole grains, and lean proteins to support immune function.
• Exercise every day to strengthen the immune system and improve overall health.
• Follow good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water.
• Get adequate sleep each night, aiming for 7-9 hours of rest.
• Manage your stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as they can weaken the immune system.
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations to prevent infections and illnesses.
• Protect skin from excessive sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.
• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Incorporate immune-boosting foods such as garlic, ginger, and turmeric into your diet.
• Incorporate probiotics into your diet, such as yogurt or fermented foods.
• Limit sugar intake to reduce inflammation and support immune function actively.

Conclusion

It's important to note that despite these preventive measures, organ rejection can still occur in some cases. The goal of the above strategies is to minimize the risk and manage rejection promptly if it occurs. The collaboration between the transplant team, healthcare providers, and the recipient is crucial in preventing rejection and ensuring the long-term success of the transplant.