Cancer in the Transplant Population: How Immunosuppressive Drugs Increase Risk

Organ transplant patients face a unique dilemma: while immunosuppressive drugs are essential for preventing organ rejection, they also increase the risk of developing cancer. This is because these drugs suppress the immune system, reducing its ability to detect and eliminate cancerous cells. As a result, transplant recipients are at a higher risk for cancers such as skin cancer, lymphoma, and kidney cancer compared to the general population.

 

Skin cancer is particularly prevalent in transplant patients, with some studies indicating a 65-fold increase in risk compared to non-transplant individuals. The immunosuppressive drugs create an environment where cancerous cells can thrive, especially in sun-exposed areas of the body. Lymphoma, specifically post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD), is another concern, caused by the reactivation of the Epstein-Barr virus in many cases.

 

Managing cancer risk in transplant patients involves a delicate balance. Regular screening for cancers is crucial for early detection, particularly for skin cancers. Adjusting immunosuppressive therapy to the lowest effective dose may also reduce cancer risk without jeopardizing the transplanted organ. In some cases, switching to different immunosuppressive drugs may help lower the likelihood of cancer development. Hence, usage of ECCT in combination may help overcome the risk of development of cancerous cells during recovery and as long term prevention.