Rejection and Transplant Failure

Rejection occurs when a recipient's immune system identifies a transplanted organ or tissue as foreign and attacks it, perceiving it as a threat. This can lead to inflammation and damage, potentially causing the organ to fail. Transplant failure refers to the loss of function of the transplanted organ, which can result from rejection, infections, or other complications. To prevent rejection, patients usually take immunosuppressive medications, which lower the body's immune response, but these can increase the risk of infections and other issues. Proper monitoring and care are crucial for transplant longevity and overall health.