Reduction of delayed graft function (DGF) is critical to the success of renal transplantation. We report graft outcomes with antithymocyte globulin (ATG) induction compared with using interleukin-2 receptor antagonist basiliximab (IL-2RA). Twelve pediatric patients received a pediatric deceased donor kidney. We treated them with ATG (group A, ATG; n = 6) or IL-2RA (group B, n = 6). DGF was observed in 0 cases (group A) and in 6 cases (group B), which showed a mean of 7 +/- 3 days (P < .001). In group A, lymphopenia occurred routinely resolving after 3-6 months, none with serious infection. The incidence of opportunistic infections was 0% in both groups. One-year patient and graft survivals were 100% in both groups. ATG induction significantly reduced the incidence of delayed graft function. Both induction treatments led to a good patient and graft survival.