An Evaluation of IV Gamma Globulin As a Method to Improve Kidney Transplant Survival in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease Who Are Highly Sensitized to Transplant Antigens

This study is designed to test the clinical and laboratory observations that suggest IVIG given before and after kidney transplant to patients who are sensitized (highly sensitive) to certain transplant antigens could result in reduced sensitization and reduced rates of kidney rejection. Some ESRD patients are highly sensitive to certain transplant antigens (foreign substances that activate the immune system) and must wait for a long time before a well-matched kidney becomes available. Transplant rejection is more likely among highly sensitized patients than in patients who are not highly sensitized. There is no proven method to improve a highly-sensitized patient's chances of receiving and keeping a transplanted kidney.