Which factor most contributes to infections after transplantation?

• A. Rejection of the graft
• B. Surgical technique
• C. Immunosuppressive medication
• D. Bacterial contamination

Answer: (C)

Immunosuppressive medications used after transplant are given to prevent the body's immune system from attacking the new organ, but this suppression also lowers the body’s ability to fight infections. Because these drugs dampen immune defenses, patients become more susceptible to bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other organisms that a healthy immune system would typically control. This increased vulnerability is why infections are such a common and significant complication after transplantation—the ongoing need for immunosuppression keeps the risk elevated over time.

While other factors can play a role—rejection involves the immune system attacking the graft, and surgical contamination can cause infections—the steady, long-term effect that most strongly contributes to post-transplant infections is the immunosuppressive therapy itself. The medications are essential for graft survival, but their impact on immune function is what raises infection risk most consistently and markedly.