Husband's Gift: Kidney Transplant Beats Rare Disease

For 28-year-old Morifat Rashid, a kidney transplant from her husband offered a new lease on life after years of battling an autoimmune disease and kidney failure. The transplant, performed on August 18, presented significant hurdles, including a high risk of blood clots and the presence of antibodies that could potentially attack the donated kidney.

Rashid's condition, linked to Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, was complicated by donor-specific antibodies from past pregnancies and blood transfusions. Doctors employed a multi-faceted approach to mitigate these risks.

Before the surgery, Rashid underwent plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy to reduce antibody levels. Her anticoagulant medication was temporarily switched from warfarin to heparin to manage clotting risks around the operation.

These carefully managed treatments, including planned anticoagulation and specialized therapies, proved successful. Following the transplant, Rashid exhibited good urine output and stable kidney function. She was later transitioned back to warfarin and discharged with her health stabilized, continuing on immunosuppressive medicines.