Kidney transplantation in dogs with naturally occurring end-stage renal disease

Renal allografts were performed between unrelated donors and 15 dogs with n aturally occurring end-stage renal disease. Donor selection was based on co mpatible dog erythrocyte antigen typing and cross-matching. An immunosuppre ssive protocol consisting of rabbit antidog antithymocyte serum, cyclospori n-A, azathioprine, and prednisone was used to control postoperative rejecti on of the donated kidney. Although seven animals died because of technical failures or rejection episodes, a median survival time of eight months has been achieved, with two dogs living for longer than five years after surger y. Long-term survivors have died from a variety of problems not related to renal allograft rejection.