Delayed graft function is reduced with antithymocyte globulin induction in pediatric kidney transplantation.

Reduction of delayed graft function (DGF) is critical to the success of renal transplantation. We report graft outcomes with antithymocyte globulin (ATG) induction compared with using interleukin-2 receptor antagonist basiliximab (IL-2RA). Twelve pediatric patients received a pediatric deceased donor kidney. We treated them with ATG (group A, ATG; n = 6) or IL-2RA (group B, n = 6). DGF was observed in 0 cases (group A) and in 6 cases (group B), which showed a mean of 7 +/- 3 days (P < .001). In group A, lymphopenia occurred routinely resolving after 3-6 months, none with serious infection. The incidence of opportunistic infections was 0% in both groups. One-year patient and graft survivals were 100% in both groups. ATG induction significantly reduced the incidence of delayed graft function. Both induction treatments led to a good patient and graft survival.