OKT3 rescue in refractory renal rejection.

A community hospital-based transplant program participated in the study of Orthoclone OKT3 as a treatment for refractory renal rejection. A total of 16 patients receiving varied oral immunosuppressive regimens, and developing steroid-resistant acute rejection, were treated with OKT3. Thirteen of the 16 patients completed a 10-day course of therapy with reversal of rejection in all 13. Rerejection occurred in 1 of the 13 patients; the remaining 12 have normal renal function. Fever, chills, and diarrhea were the most common side effects, lasting an average of 72 h. Based on this experience, OKT3 was found to be an effective drug in refractory rejection with minimal complications or risks of administration.