IMMUNOSUPPRESSION WITH POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS IN RENAL TRANSPLANTATION

Abstract
A double-blind controlled trial has been undertaken to assess the value of a preparation containing polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in human cadaveric renal transplantation. Eighty-nine patients were studied and followed for 6 months after transplantation. Forty-four took the PUFA preparation and 45 the placebo (oleic acid). Other immuno-suppression was standardised. Functional graft survival was significantly better in the PUFA group than in those taking the placebo during the first 3 to 4 months post-transplant. At 6 months, however, although the difference between the groups persisted, it was no longer statistically significant. Complications were equally distributed between the groups.