Long-term results of protocol kidney biopsy directing steroid withdrawal in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant patients.

Introduction: We sought to determine whether protocol biopsies could be used to guide treatment and improve outcomes in simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK) patients.

Methods: Between 2004 and 2013, protocol biopsies were performed on SPK patients at 3-6 months and one year post-transplant. Maintenance immunosuppression consisted of a calcineurin inhibitor, anti-proliferative agent, and corticosteroid.