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Kidney Transplant age late 60s, early 70s
My eGFR is in the range of 18-20. I feel great and would not know I had this disease if not for the bloodwork and lab results. My disease is from long term lithium use which is an unusual type of kidney disease. I don’t have proteinuria, my micronutrients are stable. I eat a Mediterranean type diet, very little meat.
I have a live donor that is a match. I’m 69 years old and my donor in her 40s. I’m hesitant about the surgery reading about the anti rejection drug reactions. And recovering from a major surgery. My nephrologist did a calculation and thought my kidneys could hold out to my mid 70s, possibly later. She is a Mayo nephrologist.
I would love feedback from kidney transplant recipients in my age range. Thank you!
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@mrainne My husband had a kidney transplant at age 62, his deceased donor was 36. He is still going strong with no signs of rejection, ten years later!
I am not sure that anyone can estimate how long a transplanted organ will last. There are simply so many variables! Knowing your kidney issues stemmed from Lithium use, you probably are no longer on that medication. What protocol do you use now for your mental health, may I ask?
Ginger
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3 ReactionsNot a kidney transplant but I had a liver transplant. Not the same but for what it is worth. I am 69 also. I was very hesitant before my liver transplant. But it already has extended my life. The recovery was no walk in the park but not to terrible. They had me on 24 different meds 2.5 years ago but I am down to 10 have the routine down pat easy peeze (sic). If your prognosis is mid 70s a kidney transplant is probably better sooner rather than later. If Mayo suggests it I would go for it. They are the best and really know their stuff. Best of luck whatever you decide.
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2 Reactions@mrainne, I received my transplant in 2009 when I was 61. Mine was a simultaneous liver and kidney transplant at Mayo in Rochester. I have done well, and my 'secret' is to do what the transplant team tells you art each step of the journey. I have been able to return to my favorite activies, plus some. I even continue to hike with my husband to enjoy hiking with my husband!
I am looking at the book, "Mayo Clinic Guide to Organ Transplant" ,(which I strongly recommend) and see this statement related to age being a factor: "Overall, Mayo Clinic experts say that when older transplant candidates are carefully screened and selected, they can experience excellent results."
I hope this helps, and please remember that any questions - anytime are welcome!
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2 Reactions@gingerw
Lamotrigine since 2014. Works beautifully and I wish I had gotten on this medication sooner. 2014 is when my eGFR dropped a tiny bit .1. My PCP and psychiatrist changed my medication immediately. I am concerned about steroids and bi polar disease. I was diagnosed in 1973 and was very lucky to have a good medical team. Lithium just got approved for this disorder. Been married 42 years, had a career and graduate degree. So I’m not mad at lithium. It gave me a long happy life.
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