What is a major consideration regarding kidney transplantation for CKD patients?

• A. It cures CKD completely in most patients.
• B. It is never affected by donor compatibility.
• C. It requires candidacy evaluation and lifelong immunosuppression to prevent rejection.
• D. It does not require ongoing medical follow-up.

Answer: (C)

A kidney transplant hinges on two essential realities: selecting the right candidate and committing to lifelong management to protect the new organ. Before the procedure, patients undergo candidacy evaluation to determine if they are medically and psychosocially suitable, including assessment of overall health, cardiovascular risk, infections, cancer status, and the ability to adhere to a demanding treatment plan and follow-up. Once the kidney is transplanted, immunosuppressive medications are required for life to prevent the immune system from rejecting the new organ. This lifelong medication strategy is paired with regular monitoring of drug levels, kidney function, and potential complications like infections or drug toxicity. Because immunosuppression carries significant risks, ongoing medical follow-up is essential. Donor compatibility does influence how well the graft may survive, but it does not eliminate the need for immunosuppression or follow-up, and the transplant is not a guaranteed cure for CKD.