Background: In OLT induction therapy with interleukin-2-receptor antibodies is often applied as part of the standard immunosuppression protocol. It was the aim of this study to determine if Basiliximab induction therapy serves to reduce the incidence of acute rejection episodes and improves graft function and survival in the long term after OLT.
Material and Methods: We prospectively analysed 99 patients transplanted at our institution (1997-2000). Patients were randomised to two study groups: 51 patients received Basiliximab induction combined with Calcineurin inhibitors and steroids, 48 patients received CNIs and steroids only. Incidence and severity of rejection, graft and patient survival and intensity of long-term immunosuppression were analysed. Frequency of CNI and steroid induced adverse effects were recorded.
Results: In our patient collective we could not detect a significant impact of Basiliximab induction therapy on the frequency of acute or chronic rejection. CNI levels were almost identical in both groups; graft and patient survival rates were not influenced by the application of induction therapy.
Conclusion: In our patient collective induction therapy does not have a general positive influence on the post transplant course. A slight improvement in long term renal function could be detected for Basiliximab treated patients.

Keywords: Liver Transplantation