Utilization of Hepatitis B viremic donors (NAT+) leads to improved kidney transplant access for older adult recipients with little to no wait time

BACKGROUND: Though the use of Hepatitis B viremic (HBV) donor kidneys may be a safe alternative to improve access to transplantation, there has not been wide acceptance of this practice. In this study, we determined the safety and effectiveness of HBV NAT (+) donor kidneys in a protocolized manner in an older adult population.

METHODS: Over a 3-year period, 16 decreased donor kidney transplants were performed with HBV NAT+ kidneys. Recipients of HBV NAT+ kidneys were treated with entecavir started pre-operatively and continued for 52 weeks.

RESULTS: HBV NAT+ kidneys were preferentially used in older (68 ± 5 vs. 64 ± 9 years; p = .01) recipients with less dialysis time (93.8% < 5 years vs. 67% <5 years; p = .03). In this cohort, 3/16 had detectable HBV PCR 1-week post-transplant, but all were negative at 9- and 12-months. Calculated estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was slightly decreased 12-months post-transplant. Post-transplant outcomes in an age-matched cohort showed no difference in rates of delayed graft function, readmission within 30 days, and graft loss or death within 6 months of transplant (p > .05).

CONCLUSION: Transplants with HBV NAT+ donor kidneys in a pre-emptive treatment protocol allow for increased safe access to transplantation in older adult recipients with little or no dialysis time.