Recurrent Primary Glomerulonephritis After Renal Transplantation: Effects on Renal Allografts and Transplant Recipients

Glomerulonephritis is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in 30% to 50% of patients who receive a renal transplant. Even though recurrent or de novo posttransplant primary GN is the third most frequent cause of renal allograft loss after renal transplantation, different recurrence rates have been reported in different patient series worldwide. With the implementation of diverse and improved immunosuppressive treatment regimens and prolongation of graft survival, renal allograft loss caused by recurrent or de novo GN will be more important than ever. Data obtained from comparing patients who have recurrent primary GN against patients with non-recurrent GN and renal transplant recipients with non-GN etiology shall bring new approaches to the daily practice of managing patients with GN and renal failure, assessing them as transplant candidates and applying new therapies.