RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Lymphocytotoxic antibodies reduce the expectancy of renal transplantation due to the increased risk of a positive crossmatch. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed the evolution of eight kidney transplants performed in our unit in presence of a positive crossmatch with historical T and/or B lymphocyte positive crossmatches. RESULTS: Mean panel reactivity was 76,6 +/- 25,7% (r: 22-100%), been higher than 75% in six patients. Six patients were recipients of a second or third transplant. Immunosuppression consisted of quadruple therapy including induction with thymoglobuline. Five patients had delayed graft function, and one had primary non-function of the graft. One patient lost her graft due to chronic allograft nephropathy in the second year postransplantation. Six patients maintained a good renal function (serum creatinine 1,2 +/- 0,5 mg/dl, proteinuria 0,20 +/- 0,34 g/day). CONCLUSION: Renal transplantation in presence of a positive cross-match with historical serum and T lymphocytes and/or B lymphocytes, was followed by a satisfactory graft survival.