Understanding Lung Transplant Rejection
Lung transplant rejection occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the transplanted lung, recognizing it as foreign. There are different types of rejection, including ¹:
- Hyperacute Rejection: A severe and immediate reaction to the transplanted lung, often due to pre-existing antibodies.
- Acute Rejection: A common and treatable response to a new lung, typically occurring within the first year after transplant.
- Chronic Rejection: A long-term complication that can lead to serious health issues, often resulting in bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) or restrictive allograft syndrome (RAS).
Types of Lung Transplant Rejection
- Acute Cellular Rejection: Caused by T-lymphocytes reacting against the donor’s lung cells, often occurring within the first six months after transplant. Symptoms may include low-grade fever, cough, shortness of breath, or serious breathing problems.
- Antibody-Mediated Rejection: A type of rejection caused by pre-existing antibodies or those developed after transplant, which can lead to severe complications.
- Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction (CLAD): A term encompassing various forms of chronic rejection, including BOS and RAS, which can significantly impact lung function and survival rates ¹.
Treatment Options
Treatment for lung transplant rejection depends on the type and severity of the rejection. Common approaches include ¹:
- Anti-Rejection Medication: Steroids and other immunosuppressive drugs to trick the immune system into accepting the new lung.
- Azithromycin: A medication that may help stop or reverse the worsening of lung function in patients with BOS.
- Retransplantation: In severe cases, retransplantation may be considered, although outcomes are generally worse than the initial transplant.
Living with a Lung Transplant
While lung transplant surgery can significantly improve quality of life, it’s not without risks and complications. Patients must carefully manage their condition, adhering to medication regimens and attending regular check-ups to monitor lung function and detect potential issues early ².
In the case of Paul Scholes, if he indeed experienced lung transplant complications, his medical team would likely be working closely with him to manage his condition and optimize his treatment plan. The outpouring of support from teammates, pundits, and fans highlights the impact he’s had on the football community and beyond.
