Is serological evidence of infection with syphilis a contraindication to kidney donation? Case report and review of the literature.

We report successful transplantation of kidneys from a cadaveric donor with serological evidence of syphilis and no transmission of the disease. Existing guidelines prohibiting the use of serologically positive donors and experience with other forms of iatrogenic transmission of syphilis are reviewed. Specific guidelines for the use of serologically positive donors are proposed.