What is the treatment for acute transplant rejection?

• A. Immunosuppressants
• B. Surgery
• C. Steroids
• D. Retransplantation

Answer: (C)

Acute transplant rejection is primarily managed through the administration of corticosteroids. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are potent anti-inflammatory medications that help to suppress the immune response, thereby reducing the activity of T-cells that are responsible for attacking the transplanted organ. Administering high doses of steroids can rapidly reverse the rejection process by dampening the immune system's ability to mount a strong response against the transplanted tissue.

While other options, like immunosuppressants, play a critical role in the overall long-term management of transplant patients to prevent rejection, the immediate intervention for acute rejection episodes often relies on steroids due to their quick action. Surgical intervention, such as a return to the operating room, is generally not warranted unless there are complications that necessitate surgery, like vascular thrombosis. Retransplantation is also not a standard immediate treatment for acute rejection but rather a last resort in cases of graft failure.

Thus, corticosteroids are the go-to treatment for acute transplant rejection due to their effectiveness in quickly suppressing the immune response and managing the acute inflammatory processes involved.