Tacrolimus Monitoring in Hair Samples of Kidney Transplant Recipients

This study demonstrates the feasibility of using scalp hair to monitor tacrolimus levels in kidney transplant recipients. In a single-center prospective study involving 39 participants, tacrolimus was detected in 98% of hair samples, with hair and blood tacrolimus levels showing a correlation (beta coefficient of 0.42). Factors such as age and hair color affected measurements, while hair treatments did not. The findings suggest that hair sampling could be a reliable, low-risk alternative to blood tests for monitoring drug exposure, offering a convenient method for patients to self-collect samples and reduce hospital visits.