Randomized prospective trial of early steroid withdrawal compared with low-dose steroids in renal transplant recipients using serial protocol biopsies to assess efficacy and safety

The immunosuppressive combination of rALG, TAC, and MMF prevents subclinical rejection and the need for high doses of steroids after transplantation. However, continual low-dose steroid therapy may aid in preventing chronic allograft fibrosis. Protocol biopsies help define the short-term and long-term risks of steroid withdrawal therapy.