Eye disease in kidney transplantation: Clinical challenges in a unique patient population

Abstract

Eye disease is common among kidney transplant recipients, and their management is challenging. Chronic kidney disease is associated with ocular complications, both independently and in the context of various systemic disorders. In addition, chronic immunosuppression predisposes kidney transplant recipients to an array of long-term ocular issues. This may be broadly categorized into infections, malignancies, and other immunosuppression-specific side effects. The interdependence of kidney disease, transplant pharmacotherapy, and ocular health, therefore, requires a multispecialty approach. Although the kidney transplant population has grown along with the burden of associated oculopathies, systematic guidelines targeting this patient group are lacking. This evidenced-based narrative review summarizes the pertinent issues that may present in the ophthalmic and optometric clinical settings, with emphasis on collaborative management and directions for future research.

Keywords: Chronic kidney disease; Endstage renal disease; Immunosuppression; Kidney transplantation; Opportunistic infection; Solid organ transplantation.