Final answer:
Cardiac vasculopathy is a major cause of death beyond the first year after a heart transplant. It is characterized by the narrowing and blockage of arteries supplying blood to the transplanted heart, leading to decreased blood flow and potential heart failure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beyond the first year after a heart transplant, one major cause of death is cardiac vasculopathy. Cardiac vasculopathy is a condition where the arteries supplying blood to the transplanted heart become narrow and blocked, leading to decreased blood flow and potential heart failure.
This condition can occur due to a variety of factors, including immune system reactions, chronic inflammation, and the use of immunosuppressant medications. It is important for transplant recipients to receive regular follow-up care and monitoring to detect and manage cardiac vasculopathy.