Kidney and Liver Transplantation
Patients with primary and enteric forms of hyperoxaluria may eventually lose kidney function, depending on the severity of their disease, the stage of the disease when they are diagnosed and how well they respond to treatment. In some cases, patients with primary hyperoxaluria will first be diagnosed when their kidneys stop functioning (end-stage renal failure). For patients with kidney failure, treatment is based on each patient's disease characteristics and needs.

• Dialysis
  An artificial kidney machine is used to remove excess fluids and wastes from the body. However, this is only temporary, until a new kidney can be transplanted, since dialysis typically does not remove as much oxalate as is formed or absorbed each day. While on dialysis, most patients with primary hyperoxaluria will continue to build up oxalate in body tissues, thus developing oxalosis.  
  
  
• Kidney Transplant
  A kidney transplant may be a good option for some patients with Type I primary hyperoxaluria whose bodies produce less oxalate when taking Vitamin B6, and for most patients with Type II.  
  
  
• Liver-Kidney Transplant
  For patients with Type 1 primary hyperoxaluria who do not sufficiently respond to Vitamin B6, a liver and kidney transplant is needed to cure their disease. The new liver corrects the metabolic defect, while the new kidney replaces the lost kidney function.  
  
  

Overview | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Transplantation | Future of OHF