The Use of Vaccines in Adult Patients With Renal Disease

In patients with renal disease, infection remains among the most common causes of morbidity and mortality. Alterations in the function of the immune system, as well as unique exposures of this patient population, account for the increased risk. Vaccination is an invaluable tool in preventing many infectious diseases. Unfortunately, responsiveness to vaccination in patients with renal disease can be diminished. In the present review, we examine the available evidence on the use of vaccinations in adult patients at different stages of chronic kidney disease. We address efficacy, clinical outcomes, and potential costs of individual vaccinations and provide our recommendations based on the literature reviewed. We also identify areas in which additional research is needed.

Index Words:  Immunization , vaccine , renal disease , dialysis , renal transplantation