Obesity and adiponectin after kidney transplantation

Acta Physiol Hung. 2007 Mar;94(1-2):149-57. doi: 10.1556/APhysiol.94.2007.1-2.14.

Abstract

Obesity and hyperlipidaemia are found very frequently after kidney transplantation (Tx) and may represent independent risk factors for development of atherosclerosis and chronic allograft nephropathy. In a prospective metabolic study, we monitored, a total of 68 obese transplant patients [body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2] with dyslipidaemia over a period of 24 months. We compared the findings of a new therapeutic regimen 1 year (start of the study) and 2 years after renal transplantation. Based on a Subjective Global Assessment Scoring Sheet, we started at the end of the first year with an individualized hypoenergic-hypolipidaemic diet (IHHD). Subsequently, after corticoid withdrawal, IHHD was supplemented regularly with statins (atorvastatin 10-20 mg/day)) and followed-up for 2 years. All patients were on a regimen of cyclosporin A or tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil. During the study period, there was a significant decrease in BMI (p < 0.025) and an increase of the adiponectin level (p < 0.01). Long-term therapy was associated with a significant decrease in serum leptin (p < 0.01) and lipid metabolism parameters (p < 0.01). Inulin clearance, mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure, proteinuria, lipoprotein(a) and apo-lipoprotein E isoforms did not differ significantly. Based on our results, we assume that obesity and hyperlipidaemia after renal transplantation can be treated effectively by modified immunosuppression (corticosteroid withdrawal), statins and long-term diet (IHHD). The increased level of adiponectin may be a marker of reducing atherosclerotic and chronic allograft nephropathy processes.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adiponectin / blood*
  • Atherosclerosis / prevention & control
  • Body Mass Index
  • Diet, Reducing
  • Hyperlipidemias / prevention & control
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Leptin / blood
  • Obesity / therapy*
  • Prospective Studies

Substances

  • Adiponectin
  • Leptin