Immunosuppressant-induced thyroid tumorigenesis in kidney transplant patients

Abstract

Renal transplantation is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage renal disease. However, the introduction of a transplanted kidney triggers an immune response due to differences in human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) between the donor and the recipient. This immune reaction identifies the transplanted kidney as a foreign body, leading to potential graft rejection. To mitigate this, immunosuppressive agents are administered to suppress the immune response. These agents are typically used at higher doses during the initial post-transplant phase and are gradually tapered during the maintenance phase. While immunosuppressants are essential for preventing graft rejection, their long-term use has been linked to an increased risk of malignancies, including thyroid cancer. This review aims to investigate the oncogenic potential of immunosuppressive therapy in renal transplant recipients, with a specific focus on the thyroid gland. By exploring existing studies and clinical data, this review aims to provide insights into the relationship between immunosuppressant use and thyroid malignancies, thereby contributing to the optimization of post-transplant care strategies.