Flow cytometry assessment of graft-infiltrating lymphocytes can accurately identify acute rejection in kidney transplants.

Background: Previously, we have reported that flow cytometry analysis of fine-needle aspirates can accurately predict rejection in kidney transplants treated with cyclosporine-azathioprine-prednisolone. In this study, we examined this technique's accuracy using current immunosuppression.

Methods: Kidney transplant recipients were treated with calcineurin inhibitors, mycophenolate mofetil, and prednisolone: 92 remained rejection-free - Group I - and 37 developed acute rejection - Group II.