Sensitive monitoring of polyclonal antilymphocyte agents in renal transplantation.

Recently, our unit has used a polyclonal antilymphocyte agent frequently to treat steroid-resistant rejection or induce immunosuppression. A system of monitoring has been developed to govern the use of this powerful agent. This technique has allowed reduction in the total dose of ATG with no loss of efficacy but a decrease in the rate of serious viral infection. Powerful polyclonal agents remain an important element of immunosuppression provided that the dose of the agent is tailored to the individual response.