Throughout the transplant process, even once you are home, you will undergo many tests to determine your health status and detect early signs of rejection or infection. It is very important to talk with your doctor about what tests to expect, as well as what results are normal for you.
In addition to physical examination, the following tests may be done during your follow-up visits:
- Blood tests help assess how well your organs are functioning.
- Ultrasounds use sound waves to show the size of organs and blood flow.
- X-rays check for early signs of infection.
- Biopsies are medical tests involving the removal of cells or tissues for examination for signs of damage or disease.
- AlloMapTM molecular expression testing is a non-invasive blood test for heart recipients used to monitor the activity of specific genes in your white blood cells to determine the risk of acute cellular rejection.
- Electrocardiograms and echocardiograms help monitor heart function.
- Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) measure how well the lungs take in and exhale air and how efficiently they transfer oxygen into the blood.
You may also need to perform several tests on a regular basis at home. Although specific tests vary per organ, tests that are very important in helping to monitor the health of every transplant patient include temperature, weight, blood pressure and pulse. Talk to your transplant team about tests you will need to perform, as well as additional questions you have or instruction you need.
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