ATG is an infusion of horse or rabbit antibodies against human T cells. Used in organ transplantation and aplastic anemia treatment. Two licensed US agents: Thymoglobulin (rabbit) and Atgam (equine). Grafalon is marketed outside US as rabbit anti-T lymphocyte globulin
Immunosuppression reduces immune system activation or efficacy. Can occur naturally or as adverse reaction to treatment. Deliberately induced to prevent organ transplant rejection
Hyperacute rejection occurs within minutes to hours, caused by pre-existing antibodies. Acute rejection develops weeks to months after transplantation, triggered by HLA mismatch. Chronic rejection develops over months to years, often following acute rejection
AB+ blood is universal recipient, O- blood is universal donor. Only 7% of population has O- blood. Blood types determined by presence or absence of A or B antigens. Rh factor determines positive or negative blood type
Immunosuppressants block immune system parts to treat autoimmune diseases and organ transplants. Treatments include traditional drugs like corticosteroids and biologics like Humira. Used for conditions like psoriasis, Crohn's, multiple sclerosis, and organ transplants. Common in cancer treatment as side effect of chemotherapy and radiation
Used to prevent organ damage after transplant. May increase risk of cancer like lymphoma and skin cancer. Can cause serious infections, especially if untreated. Requires two types of birth control during treatment