immunosuppression
Therapeutic reduction of immune system activity to prevent transplant rejection or treat autoimmune kidney diseases. Requires careful monitoring in pediatric patients for growth and infection risks.
Full Definition
Immunosuppression involves the use of medications to deliberately suppress the immune system, either to prevent kidney transplant rejection or to treat immune-mediated glomerular diseases. In pediatric nephrology, immunosuppressive regimens must balance efficacy in preventing rejection or controlling inflammation with minimizing adverse effects on growth, bone health, infection risk, and long-term malignancy risk. Common agents include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antimetabolites, and biological agents, often used in combination protocols.
Usage
Usage note: Specify agents and protocols when discussing specific regimens; note pediatric-specific considerations.
In Context
- "The transplant team adjusted immunosuppression to address the acute rejection episode." — Post-transplant clinic note
- "Careful immunosuppression monitoring prevented opportunistic infections while maintaining graft function." — Long-term follow-up summary