Transplant candidates are “sensitized” if their immune system makes antibodies against a general donor pool. Sensitization usually occurs as a consequence of pregnancy, blood transfusions, or previous transplantation. The degree of sensitization is measured by panel reactive antibody (PRA). Highly sensitized patients are less likely to match with available donors and more likely to reject an organ than unsensitized patients. (OPTN Glossary May 2021)
Glossary Term