Coronavirus disease 2019 in kidney transplant recipients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Introduction: The clinical presentation and outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have not been well studied. Methods: We performed a meta-analysis to examine the presenting features, outcomes and the effect of treatment on outcomes of KTRs with COVID-19. Database search was performed up to 5 September 2020 through PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and CENTRAL. Results: Overall, 23 studies (1373 patients) were included in the review and meta-analysis. The most common presenting symptoms included fever (74.0%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 65.3–81.1), cough (63.3% 95% CI 56.5–69.6) and dyspnoea (47.5%, 95% CI 39.6–55.6). Pooled rates of mortality and critical illness were 21.1% (95% CI 15.3-28.4) and 27.7% (95% CI 21.5–34.8) respectively. Acute kidney injury occurred in 38.9% (95% CI 30.6–48.1) and dialysis was required in 12.4% (95% CI 8.3–18.0) of the cases. Discussion: KTRs with COVID-19 have a similar clinical presentation as the general population but have higher morbidity and mortality. It is uncertain whether high dose corticosteroid or hydroxychloroquine reduces the risks of mortality in KTRs with COVID-19.