51
|
Hoxha E, Thiele I, Zahner G, Panzer U, Harendza S, Stahl RAK. Phospholipase A2 receptor autoantibodies and clinical outcome in patients with primary membranous nephropathy. J Am Soc Nephrol 2014; 25:1357-66. [PMID: 24610926 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2013040430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults, with an uncertain clinical outcome. The characterization of the phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) as the major target antigen in primary MN and the detection of circulating autoantibodies in these patients is a major advance in understanding this disease. To test whether PLA2R antibody levels reflect disease activity or clinical outcome, we performed a prospective multicenter study of 133 adult patients with primary MN and detectable serum PLA2R antibodies who had not received immunosuppressive therapy. Patients were followed ≤24 months. PLA2R antibody levels associated with clinical disease activity (proteinuria) in patients with immunosuppressive therapy (n=101) or supportive care (n=32). Within 3 months, immunosuppressive therapy led to a sustained 81% reduction in PLA2R antibody levels paralleled by a 39% reduction in proteinuria. Patients who experienced remission of proteinuria after 12 months had significantly lower PLA2R antibody levels at the time of study inclusion compared with patients with no remission. Patients with high PLA2R antibody levels achieved remission of proteinuria significantly later than patients with low PLA2R antibody levels. PLA2R antibody levels fell over time in patients with spontaneous remission but remained elevated in patients who did not show a reduction in proteinuria. Multivariable Cox regression analysis confirmed PLA2R antibody level as an independent risk factor for not achieving remission of proteinuria. We conclude that a decrease in PLA2R antibody level is associated with a decrease of proteinuria in patients with primary MN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elion Hoxha
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ina Thiele
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gunther Zahner
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ulf Panzer
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sigrid Harendza
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rolf A K Stahl
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy is characterized by immune complex deposits on the outer side of the glomerular basement membrane. Activation of complement and of oxidation lead to basement membrane lesions. The most frequent form is idiopathic. At 5 and 10 years, renal survival is around 90 and 65% respectively. A prognostic model based on proteinuria, level and duration, progression of renal failure in a few months can refine prognosis. The urinary excretion of C5b-9, β2 and α1 microglobuline and IgG are strong predictors of outcome. Symptomatic treatment is based on anticoagulation in case of nephrotic syndrome, angiotensin conversion enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers and statins. Immunosuppressive therapy should be discussed for patients having a high risk of progression. Corticoids alone has no indication. Treatment should include a simultaneous association or more often alternating corticoids and alkylant agent for a minimum of 6 months. Adrenocorticoid stimulating hormone and steroids plus mycophenolate mofetil may be equally effective. Steroids plus alkylant decrease the risk of end stage renal failure. Cyclosporine and tacrolimus decrease proteinuria but are associated with a high risk of recurrence at time of withdrawal and are nephrotoxic. Rituximab evaluated on open studies needs further evaluations to define its use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Mercadal
- Service de néphrologie, groupe hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, 83, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
53
|
Axelsson J, Rippe A, Sverrisson K, Rippe B. Scavengers of reactive oxygen species, paracalcitol, RhoA, and Rac-1 inhibitors and tacrolimus inhibit angiotensin II-induced actions on glomerular permeability. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2013; 305:F237-43. [DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00154.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic infusions of ANG II rapidly induce large, dynamic increases in the permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB) in rats. After binding to its receptor(s), ANG II generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and produces Ca2+ influx into cells, leading to activation of a plethora of signaling cascades, including, e.g., calcineurin and small GTPases, such as Rac-1 and RhoA. In the present study we sought to interact with some of these cascades to test potential novel antiproteinuric agents. In anesthetized Wistar rats, the left urether was cannulated for urine collection, and blood access was achieved. Rats were infused with ANG II (16 ng·kg−1·min−1) alone, or together with the ROS scavengers tempol or dimethylthiourea (DMTU) or the D-vitamin analog paracalcitol, the RhoA-kinase inhibitor Y-27632, the Rac-1 inhibitor NSC-23766, or the calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus. FITC-Ficoll-70/400 (mol.radius 10–80 Å) and 51Cr-EDTA were infused throughout the experiment. Plasma and urine samples were taken during baseline and at 5 and 15 min after the start of the infusions and analyzed by high-performance size-exclusion chromatography for determination of glomerular sieving coefficients (θ) for Ficoll10–80Å. ANG II infusion into rats caused marked increases in glomerular permeability to large Ficoll molecules (Ficoll50–80Å), which were abrogated by the ROS scavenger tempol and partly by DMTU. Paracalcitol, RhoA, and Rac-1 inhibition, and, to some extent tacrolimus, but not prostacyclin, could also inhibit the glomerular permeability actions of ANG II. Our data suggest that cellular ROS generation and active Ca2+ signaling are involved in ANG II-induced increases in glomerular permeability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Rippe
- Department of Nephrology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Bengt Rippe
- Department of Nephrology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Matsumoto Y, Shimada Y, Nojima Y, Moriki T. Efficacy of mizoribine followed by low-dose prednisone in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy and nephrotic-range proteinuria. Ren Fail 2013; 35:936-41. [DOI: 10.3109/0886022x.2013.808133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
55
|
Abstract
Immunosuppressive treatment of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (iMN) is heavily debated. The controversy is mainly related to the toxicity of the therapy and the variable natural course of the disease-spontaneous remission occurs in 40-50% of patients. The 2012 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Clinical Practice Guideline for Glomerulonephritis provides guidance for the treatment of iMN. The guideline suggests that immunosuppressive therapy should be restricted to patients with nephrotic syndrome and persistent proteinuria, deteriorating renal function or severe symptoms. Alkylating agents are the preferred therapy because of their proven efficacy in preventing end-stage renal disease. Calcineurin inhibitors can be used as an alternative although efficacy data on hard renal end points are limited. In this Review, we summarize the KDIGO guideline and address remaining areas of uncertainty. Better risk prediction is needed to identify patients who will benefit from immunosuppressive therapy, and the optimal timing and duration of this therapy is unknown because most of the randomized controlled trials were performed in low-risk or medium-risk patients. Alternative therapies, directed at B cells, are under study. The discovery of anti-M type phospholipase A2 receptor-antibodies is a major breakthrough and we envisage that in the near future, antibody-driven therapy will enable more individualized treatment of patients with iMN.
Collapse
|
56
|
Shin DH, Lee MJ, Oh HJ, Koo HM, Doh FM, Kim HR, Han JH, Park JT, Han SH, Choi KH, Yoo TH, Kang SW. Stepwise treatment using corticosteroids alone and in combination with cyclosporine in korean patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Yonsei Med J 2013; 54:973-82. [PMID: 23709434 PMCID: PMC3663215 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2013.54.4.973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We undertook an observational study to investigate the effects of immunosuppressive treatment on proteinuria and renal function in 179 Korean idiopathic membranous nephropathy patients with nephrotic syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS The primary outcome was regarded as the first appearance of remission and the secondary outcomes as a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >50% or initiation of dialysis, and all-cause mortality. Seventy-two (40.2%) and 50 (27.9%) patients were treated with corticosteroids alone (C) and corticosteroids plus cyclosporine (C+C), respectively, whereas 57 (31.8%) did not receive immunosuppressants (NTx). Cyclosporine was added if there was no reduction in proteinuria of >50% from baseline by corticosteroids alone within 3 months. RESULTS There were no differences in baseline renal function and the amount of proteinuria among the three groups. Overall, complete remission (CR) was achieved in 88 (72.1%) patients by immunosuppressants. In a multivariate analysis adjusted for covariates associated with adverse renal outcome, the probability of reaching CR was significantly higher in the C [hazard ratio (HR), 4.09; p<0.001] and C+C groups (HR, 2.57; p=0.003) than in the NTx group. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that 5-year CR rates of C, C+C, and NTx groups were 88.5%, 86.2%, and 56.7% (p<0.001). Ten-year event-free rates for the secondary endpoints in these three groups were 91.7%, 79.9%, and 57.2% (p=0.01). CONCLUSION Immunosuppressive treatment was effective in inducing remission and preserving renal function in these patients. Therefore, stepwise treatment using corticosteroids alone and in combination with cyclosporine is warranted in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ho Shin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mi Jung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyung Jung Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyang Mo Koo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Fa Mee Doh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyoung Rae Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Hyun Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Tak Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Hyeok Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu Hun Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae-Hyun Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shin-Wook Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Affiliation(s)
- Piero Ruggenenti
- Clinical Research Center for Rare Diseases "Aldo & Cele Daccò", Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Science and Technology Park Kilometro Rosso, 24126 Bergamo, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
58
|
Howman A, Chapman TL, Langdon MM, Ferguson C, Adu D, Feehally J, Gaskin GJ, Jayne DRW, O'Donoghue D, Boulton-Jones M, Mathieson PW. Immunosuppression for progressive membranous nephropathy: a UK randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2013; 381:744-51. [PMID: 23312808 PMCID: PMC3590447 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(12)61566-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Membranous nephropathy leads to end-stage renal disease in more than 20% of patients. Although immunosuppressive therapy benefits some patients, trial evidence for the subset of patients with declining renal function is not available. We aimed to assess whether immunosuppression preserves renal function in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy with declining renal function. METHODS This randomised controlled trial was undertaken in 37 renal units across the UK. We recruited patients (18-75 years) with biopsy-proven idiopathic membranous nephropathy, a plasma creatinine concentration of less than 300 μmol/L, and at least a 20% decline in excretory renal function measured in the 2 years before study entry, based on at least three measurements over a period of 3 months or longer. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1:1) by a random number table to receive supportive treatment only, supportive treatment plus 6 months of alternating cycles of prednisolone and chlorambucil, or supportive treatment plus 12 months of ciclosporin. The primary outcome was a further 20% decline in renal function from baseline, analysed by intention to treat. The trial is registered as an International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial, number 99959692. FINDINGS We randomly assigned 108 patients, 33 of whom received prednisolone and chlorambucil, 37 ciclosporin, and 38 supportive therapy alone. Two patients (one who received ciclosporin and one who received supportive therapy) were ineligible, so were not included in the intention-to-treat analysis, and 45 patients deviated from protocol before study end, mostly as a result of minor dose adjustments. Follow up was until primary endpoint or for minimum of 3 years if primary endpoint was not reached. Risk of further 20% decline in renal function was significantly lower in the prednisolone and chlorambucil group than in the supportive care group (19 [58%] of 33 patients reached endpoint vs 31 [84%] of 37, hazard ratio [HR] 0·44 [95% CI 0·24-0·78]; p=0·0042); risk did not differ between the ciclosporin (29 [81%] of 36) and supportive treatment only groups (HR 1·17 [0·70-1·95]; p=0·54), but did differ significantly across all three groups (p=0·003). Serious adverse events were frequent in all three groups but were higher in the prednisolone and chlorambucil group than in the supportive care only group (56 events vs 24 events; p=0·048). INTERPRETATION For the subset of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy and deteriorating excretory renal function, 6 months' therapy with prednisolone and chlorambucil is the treatment approach best supported by our evidence. Ciclosporin should be avoided in this subset. FUNDING Medical Research Council, Novartis, Renal Association, Kidney Research UK.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Howman
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | | | - Dwomoa Adu
- Renal Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - John Feehally
- Renal Unit, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
59
|
Chen Y, Schieppati A, Cai G, Chen X, Zamora J, Giuliano GA, Braun N, Perna A. Immunosuppression for membranous nephropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 36 clinical trials. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2013; 8:787-96. [PMID: 23449768 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.07570712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The efficacy and safety of immunosuppression for idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) with nephrotic syndrome are still controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS The Cochrane Library, PUBMED, EMBASE, Chinese Database, and Clinical Trial Registries (June 2012) were searched to identify RCTs investigating the effect of immunosuppression on adults with IMN and nephrotic syndrome. RESULTS This review was an update (36 RCTs, 1762 participants) of the 2004 version (18 RCTs, 1025 participants). Immunosuppression significantly reduced all-cause mortality or ESRD (15 RCTs, 791 participants; risk ratio, 0.58 [95% confidence interval, 0.36-0.95]; P=0.03). However, the result was not consistent when prespecified subgroup analyses were undertaken. Immunosuppression increased complete or partial remission (CR + PR) (16 RCTs, 864 participants; 1.31 [1.01-1.70]; P=0.04) but resulted in more withdrawals or hospitalizations (16 RCTs, 880 participants; 5.35 [2.19-13.02]; P=0.002). Corticosteroids combined with alkylating agents significantly reduced all-cause mortality or ESRD (8 RCTs, 448 participants; 0.44 [0.26-0.75]; P=0.002) and increased CR + PR (7 RCTs, 422 participants; 1.46 [1.13-1.89]; P=0.004) but led to more adverse events (4 RCTs, 303 participants; 4.20 [1.15-15.32]; P=0.03). Cyclophosphamide was safer than chlorambucil (3 RCTs, 147 participants; 0.48 [0.26-0.90]; P=0.02). Cyclosporine and mycophenolate mofetil failed to show superiority over alkylating agents. Tacrolimus and adrenocorticotropic hormone significantly reduced proteinuria. CONCLUSIONS Alkylating agents plus corticosteroids had long-term and short-term benefits for adult IMN, but resulted in more withdrawals or hospitalizations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yizhi Chen
- Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
60
|
Abstract
Exciting progress recently has been made in our understanding of idiopathic membranous nephropathy, as well as treatment of this disease. Here, we review important advances regarding the pathogenesis of membranous nephropathy. We will also review the current approach to treatment and its limitations and will highlight new therapies that are currently being explored for this disease including Rituximab, mycophenolate mofetil, and adrenocorticotropic hormone, with an emphasis on results of the most recent clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meryl Waldman
- Kidney Disease Section, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
61
|
|
62
|
|
63
|
Papasotiriou M, Kalliakmani P, Huang L, Gerolymos M, Goumenos DS, Johnson TS. Does Treatment with Corticosteroids and Cyclosporine Reduce Transglutaminase Type 2 Expression in the Renal Tissue of Patients with Membranous Nephropathy? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 121:c60-7. [DOI: 10.1159/000341116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
64
|
Lionaki S, Derebail VK, Hogan SL, Barbour S, Lee T, Hladunewich M, Greenwald A, Hu Y, Jennette CE, Jennette JC, Falk RJ, Cattran DC, Nachman PH, Reich HN. Venous thromboembolism in patients with membranous nephropathy. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2011; 7:43-51. [PMID: 22076873 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.04250511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of venous thromboembolic events in a large cohort of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy and to identify predisposing risk factors. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS We studied patients with biopsy-proven membranous nephropathy from the Glomerular Disease Collaborative Network (n=412) and the Toronto Glomerulonephritis Registry (n=486) inception cohorts. The cohorts were pooled after establishing similar baseline characteristics (total n=898). Clinically apparent and radiologically confirmed venous thromboembolic events were identified. Potential risk factors were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression models. RESULTS Sixty-five (7.2%) subjects had at least one venous thromboembolic event, and this rate did not differ significantly between registries. Most venous thromboembolic events occurred within 2 years of first clinical assessment (median time to VTE = 3.8 months). After adjusting for age, sex, proteinuria, and immunosuppressive therapy, hypoalbuminemia at diagnosis was the only independent predictor of a venous thromboembolic event. Each 1.0 g/dl reduction in serum albumin was associated with a 2.13-fold increased risk of VTE. An albumin level <2.8 g/dl was the threshold below which risk for a venous thromboembolic event was greatest. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that clinically apparent venous thromboembolic events occur in about 7% of patients with membranous nephropathy. Hypoalbuminemia, particularly <2.8 g/dl, is the most significant independent predictor of venous thrombotic risk.
Collapse
|
65
|
Cattran DC, Reich HN, Kim SJ, Troyanov S. Have we changed the outcome in membranous nephropathy? A propensity study on the role of immunosuppressive therapy. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2011; 6:1591-8. [PMID: 21685024 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.11001210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The long-term effect of immunosuppressive therapy (IS) on kidney survival in idiopathic membranous nephropathy (MGN) is debated. The introduction of renin angiotensin blockade, rigorous BP control, and the increasing age at presentation of patients with MGN adds further uncertainty. Given these important changes, we sought to determine whether implementation of IS has altered outcome. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & METHODS We prospectively evaluated 280 incident MGN patients from three distinct 10-year periods starting from 1975. RESULTS We found expected changes in treatment regimens but also variations in age, renal function, severity of proteinuria, and BP at presentation over this time. Outcomes did not differ over time if these significant variations in clinical characteristics were not accounted for across the eras. The effect of IS in the 57 patients treated with currently recommended regimens was assessed using propensity adjustment to address selection bias and the effect of newer, conservative therapies. A propensity score estimating the probability of receiving IS permitted the pairing of 39 treated patients with controls with similar high risk of progression of clinical features. Using this approach, IS was associated not only with remissions in proteinuria but also with substantially improved renal survival. CONCLUSIONS The study confirms that patient presenting characteristics and management regimens have changed significantly over time and the natural history of MGN has been altered. A study of propensity-matched patients confirms that current recommendations for IS have improved outcomes in MGN patients at high risk of progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Cattran
- Department of Nephrology, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
66
|
Aaltonen S, Honkanen E. Outcome of idiopathic membranous nephropathy using targeted stepwise immunosuppressive treatment strategy. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2011; 26:2871-7. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfq841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
67
|
Cyclosporine versus azathioprine therapy in high-risk idiopathic membranous nephropathy patients: A 3-year prospective study. Biomed Pharmacother 2011; 65:105-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2010.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2010] [Accepted: 10/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
68
|
Matsumoto H, Nagaoka Y, Okada T, Wada T, Gondo A, Esaki S, Hayashi A, Miyaoka Y, Nakao T. Triple therapy with single daily dose of cyclosporine in Japanese patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Intern Med 2011; 50:1905-10. [PMID: 21921367 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.50.5606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The optimal therapeutic approach to patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) remains controversial. In this study, we assessed the efficacy of single daily dose cyclosporine (CsA) combined with low-dose prednisolone (PSL) and an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) in patients with IMN. METHODS We studied 13 nephrotic patients (8 men, 5 women) with IMN diagnosed on biopsy. An initial single daily dose of 2 mg/kg, but not exceeding 150 mg, CsA was given for 12 months, tapered by a 25 mg reduction every 2 months. An initial twice-daily dose of 0.5 mg/kg PSL was given for 2 months and was also tapered. An ARB was given to all patients and the same dosage was used throughout the study. Patients were followed up for 6 to 66 months. RESULTS Nine patients achieved complete remission at 6.7±2.9 months, and incomplete remission was obtained in the remaining patients. After a follow-up period of 32.7±20.0 months, their serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate values were similar to baseline levels. The 9 patients who completed the treatment course have not relapsed. Moreover, there were no adverse effects requiring discontinuation of this triple therapy. CONCLUSION A single daily dose of CsA combined with a low dose of PSL and an ARB in new-onset nephrotic patients with IMN induced a high remission rate of nephrotic syndrome, with a low incidence of relapse and a low risk of adverse effects. The triple therapy and prospective follow-up shows potential as a treatment approach for patients with IMN.
Collapse
|
69
|
Stoycheff N, Pandya K, Okparavero A, Schiff A, Levey AS, Greene T, Stevens LA. Early change in proteinuria as a surrogate outcome in kidney disease progression: a systematic review of previous analyses and creation of a patient-level pooled dataset. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2010; 26:848-57. [PMID: 20817671 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfq525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proteinuria is a candidate surrogate end point for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in chronic kidney disease (CKD). There is a reasonably sound biological basis for this hypothesis, but only preliminary empirical evidence currently exists. METHODS A systematic review and creation of a patient-level dataset of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in CKD that reported changes in proteinuria and assessed progression of kidney disease as defined by dialysis, transplantation, death, or changes in GFR or creatinine were performed. RESULTS Systematic review. Seventy RCTs met the eligibility criteria; 17 eligible RCTs contained analyses of proteinuria as a predictor of outcomes; 15 RCTs concluded that greater proteinuria was associated with adverse outcomes. A majority were studies of diabetic or hypertensive kidney disease and tested renin-angiotensin system blockade. Definitions of predictor and outcome variables were too variable to conduct a meta-analysis of group data. Database creation. Over 4 years was required to create the patient-level dataset. The final dataset included 34 studies and > 9000 patients with a variety of CKD types and interventions. CONCLUSIONS There are a relatively small number of RCTs designed to rigorously test therapies for kidney disease progression. Current analyses of change in proteinuria as a predictor of CKD progression are heterogeneous and incomplete, indicating further evaluation in a pooled individual patient-level database is necessary to advance knowledge in this field.
Collapse
|
70
|
Zavada J, Pesickova S, Rysava R, Olejarova M, Horák P, Hrncír Z, Rychlík I, Havrda M, Vítova J, Lukác J, Rovensky J, Tegzova D, Böhmova J, Zadrazil J, Hána J, Dostál C, Tesar V. Cyclosporine A or intravenous cyclophosphamide for lupus nephritis: the Cyclofa-Lune study. Lupus 2010; 19:1281-9. [PMID: 20605876 DOI: 10.1177/0961203310371155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Intravenous cyclophosphamide is considered to be the standard of care for the treatment of proliferative lupus nephritis. However, its use is limited by potentially severe toxic effects. Cyclosporine A has been suggested to be an efficient and safe treatment alternative to cyclophosphamide. Forty patients with clinically active proliferative lupus nephritis were randomly assigned to one of two sequential induction and maintenance treatment regimens based either on cyclophosphamide or Cyclosporine A. The primary outcomes were remission (defined as normal urinary sediment, proteinuria <0.3 g/24 h, and stable s-creatinine) and response to therapy (defined as stable s-creatinine, 50% reduction in proteinuria, and either normalization of urinary sediment or significant improvement in C3) at the end of induction and maintenance phase. Secondary outcomes were incidence of adverse events, and relapse-free survival. At the end of the induction phase, 24% of the 21 patients treated by cyclophosphamide achieved remission, and 52% achieved response, as compared with 26% and 43%, respectively of the 19 patients treated by the Cyclosporine A. At the end of the maintenance phase, 14% of patients in cyclophosphamide group, and 37% in Cyclosporine A group had remission, and 38% and 58% respectively response. Treatment with Cyclosporine A was associated with transient increase in blood pressure and reversible decrease in glomerular filtration rate. There was no significant difference in median relapse-free survival. In conclusion, Cyclosporine A was as effective as cyclophosphamide in the trial of sequential induction and maintenance treatment in patients with proliferative lupus nephritis and preserved renal function.(ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00976300)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Zavada
- Institute of Rheumatology and First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
71
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive agent used for different autoimmune diseases. The official Canadian indications for cyclosporine are solid organ transplantation, bone marrow transplantation, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and nephritic syndrome (e-CPS 2008). The expanding range of indications for cyclosporine therapy will lead to more patients receiving chronic therapy with possible side effects, hypertension being one of the most common. Therefore it is essential to know the magnitude of increase of blood pressure (BP) associated with cyclosporine in order to appropriately manage patients receiving the drug. OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the effect of cyclosporine on blood pressure, compared to placebo in randomized trials. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and bibliographic databases, including MEDLINE (2000-2008) and EMBASE (1980-2008). SELECTION CRITERIA Selection was made using double-blind, randomized, controlled trials comparing cyclosporine to placebo. All patients treated with cyclosporine were included without restriction by type of disease or by age and sex. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Blood pressure measurements in any setting and by any means were acceptable including the auscultatory or oscillometric method with a preference for the sitting position. Mean blood pressure results were entered as mean change from placebo and standard error of the mean (SEM). If blood pressure data was provided at different times after the initiation of cyclosporine therapy the weighted mean BP change from placebo from all measurements was used. MAIN RESULTS The search yielded 1340 citations, of which 17 trials met the inclusion criteria. We created dose-ranges according to the usual dose administration recommended by the manufacturer and allocated the 17 included trials to the corresponding dose-range. The results demonstrate a highly statistically significant increase in blood pressure associated with cyclosporine. There appears to be a dose-related effect with lower doses (1-4 mg/kg/d) increasing mean BP by an average of 5 mmHg and higher doses (>10 mg/kg/d) increasing mean BP by 11 mmHg on average. Furthermore in 3 trials the effect appears to be similar after a single dose as with chronic therapy. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Cyclosporine statistically significantly increases blood pressure compared to placebo in a dose-related fashion. The magnitude of increase in blood pressure is clinically significant and increases the risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure and other adverse cardiovascular events associated with elevated BP. Consequently prescribers should try to find the lowest effective dose in all patients receiving cyclosporine chronically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Robert
- Institut of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Finkenhubelweg 11, Bern, Bern, Switzerland, CH-3012
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
72
|
Abstract
Treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy is based on a 'symptomatic' therapy that includes ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor antagonists, and on an 'aetiological' therapy aimed at modulating underlying immunological mechanisms. The role of the latter is still debated given the usually indolent course of disease; furthermore, traditional immunosuppressants would not have an impact on patient and renal survival according to a systematic review of literature. However, up to 40% of untreated patients eventually develop end-stage renal disease and remission of nephrotic syndrome protects patients from related life-threatening complications and is the strongest positive prognostic factor for long-term kidney function. Therefore, immunosuppressive therapy seems to be rational in high-risk patients with nephrotic syndrome or deteriorating renal function. This article outlines a possible role for each 'aetiological' therapy on the basis of available evidence in order to provide some practical recommendations. The first-line therapy is based on a 6-month regimen of alternating corticosteroids and an alkylating agent ('Ponticelli' regimen), whereas oral ciclosporin and intramuscular corticotrophin (adrenocorticotrophic hormone) are alternatives that provide comparable results in terms of remission of proteinuria, with a different adverse effect profile. New drugs are emerging as potential treatments, such as mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus, intravenous immunoglobulins and rituximab. Specific settings, such as chronic renal failure or elderly age, require a careful balance between benefits and toxicity of immunosuppression. The tailor-made use of this repertoire of drugs can provide a tool to achieve remission of proteinuria and modify the natural course of idiopathic membranous nephropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Quaglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Amedeo Avogadro University, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
73
|
Ladino M, Roth D. Recurrent idiopathic membranous nephropathy in the renal allograft: successful treatment with the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab. NDT Plus 2009; 2:395-7. [PMID: 25949355 PMCID: PMC4421397 DOI: 10.1093/ndtplus/sfp071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2009] [Accepted: 05/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous glomerulonephritis (IMGN) is one of the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Disease progression is associated with the magnitude and duration of proteinuria [Reichert LJ, Koene RA, Wetzels JF. Prognostic factors in idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Am J Kidney Dis 1998; 31: 1–11]. Membranous nephropathy is also one of the glomerular diseases that is well described to recur in the transplanted kidney [Kotanko P, Pusey CD, Levy JB. Recurrent glomerulonephritis following renal transplantation. Transplantation 1997; 63: 1045]. There is no definitive therapy for primary membranous glomerulonephritis or recurrent disease in the graft. Cyclophosphamide plus steroids or cyclosporine [Cattran DC, Greenwood C, Ritchie S et al. Canadian Glomerulonephritis Study Group. A controlled trial of cyclosporine in patients with progressive membranous nephropathy. Kidney Int 1995; 47: 1130–1135] have been the preferred agents for the treatment of MGN involving the native kidneys. More recently, several reports have described the use of the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab in patients with IMGN. In the current report, we present a patient with ESRD secondary to IMGN who developed nephrotic range proteinuria 5 months after receiving a kidney transplant from a deceased donor. A biopsy of the allograft demonstrated changes compatible with recurrent membranous glomerulonephritis. The patient was treated with four weekly infusions of rituximab over a 1-month period with a significant decrease in proteinuria and an improvement in renal function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ladino
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Miller School of Medicine , University of Miami , Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, 1600 NW 10th Ave, Suite 7168, Miami, FL, 33136 , USA
| | - David Roth
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Miller School of Medicine , University of Miami , Rosenstiel Medical Science Building, 1600 NW 10th Ave, Suite 7168, Miami, FL, 33136 , USA
| |
Collapse
|
74
|
Abstract
Optimum treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy is both controversial and challenging. The most extensively studied and frequently used immunosuppressive regimens for this disease comprise alkylating agents plus corticosteroids or ciclosporin. All of these treatment options have inherent problems: they are not effective in all patients, partial-rather than complete-remissions are common, adverse effects are worrisome, and relapses after treatment cessation remain problematic. Alternative immunosuppressive agents have been tested in an effort to overcome these unresolved issues. This paper reviews the available evidence regarding both established and new agents for the treatment of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy, with an emphasis on the results of the most recent clinical trials.
Collapse
|
75
|
Segarra A, Praga M, Ramos N, Polanco N, Cargol I, Gutierrez-Solis E, Gomez MR, Montoro B, Camps J. Successful treatment of membranous glomerulonephritis with rituximab in calcineurin inhibitor-dependent patients. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2009; 4:1083-8. [PMID: 19478097 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.06041108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) induce remission of proteinuria in most nephrotic patients with membranous glomerulonephropathy (MGN). However, 60% of patients become treatment dependent and are at risk of chronic nephrotoxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of rituximab in patients with long-term dependence on CNIs. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, AND MEASUREMENTS Thirteen patients with MGN, normal renal function, and proven dependence on CNIs, despite previous treatment with other immunosuppressant drugs, received a single trial of four weekly doses of rituximab (375 mg/m(2)). Outcome measures were the percentage of patients with CNI withdrawal and no evidence of relapse and the percentage of patients with complete or partial remission 30 mo after CNI withdrawal. RESULTS After rituximab, proteinuria decreased significantly (2.5 +/- 0,76 basal versus 0.85 +/- 0.17 at 6 mo; P = .0003). CNIs and other immunosuppressant drugs could be withdrawn in all patients with no evidence of relapse. After CNI withdrawal, GFR increased significantly (90.3 +/- 15 basal to 106.4 +/- 20 at 3 mo with a mean increase of 15.3% [range 0-20]). Three patients suffered a relapse of nephrotic proteinuria 19, 23, and 28 mo after rituximab treatment; all were successfully treated with a second course of rituximab. At 30 mo, all patients were in remission. CONCLUSIONS In patients with MGN with long-term CNI dependence, rituximab can be an effective tool to overcome dependence on CNI, thus avoiding the risk of nephrotoxicity related to the chronic exposure to these drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfons Segarra
- Servicio de Nefrología Hospital Vall d'Hebrón, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
76
|
Sawada K, Hirokawa M, Fujishima N. Diagnosis and management of acquired pure red cell aplasia. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2009; 23:249-59. [PMID: 19327582 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2009.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Pure red cell aplasia is a syndrome characterized by a severe normocytic anemia, reticulocytopenia, and absence of erythroblasts from an otherwise normal bone marrow. Although the causes and natural course of this syndrome are variable and although the anemia in some patients can be managed by treatment of an underlying inflammatory or neoplastic disease, the pathogenesis of a large number of cases is autoimmune, including those associated with thymoma, and are best managed with immunosuppressive therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Sawada
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Akita University School of Medicine, Hondo 1-1-1, Akita 018-8543, Japan.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
77
|
Fervenza FC. Overcoming Calcineurin Dependence in Membranous Nephropathy: Is Rituximab the Answer? Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2009; 4:1017-9. [DOI: 10.2215/cjn.02710409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
78
|
Austin HA, Illei GG, Braun MJ, Balow JE. Randomized, controlled trial of prednisone, cyclophosphamide, and cyclosporine in lupus membranous nephropathy. J Am Soc Nephrol 2009; 20:901-11. [PMID: 19297556 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2008060665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with lupus membranous nephropathy (LMN) are at substantial long-term risk for morbidity and mortality associated with protracted nephrotic syndrome, including ESRD. The optimal treatment for this condition is controversial. Forty-two patients with LMN participated in a randomized, controlled trial to compare adjunctive immunosuppressive drugs with prednisone alone. Adjunctive regimens included either cyclosporine (CsA) for 11 mo or alternate-month intravenous pulse cyclophosphamide (IVCY) for six doses; the control group received alternate-day prednisone alone. Median proteinuria was 5.4 g/d (range 2.7 to 15.4 g/d). We assessed the primary outcome, time to remission of proteinuria during the 12-mo protocol, by univariate survival analysis. At 1 yr, the cumulative probability of remission was 27% with prednisone, 60% with IVCY, and 83% with CsA. Although both IVCY and CsA were more effective than prednisone in inducing remissions of proteinuria, relapse of nephrotic syndrome occurred significantly more often after completion of CsA than after IVCY. By multivariate survival analysis, treatment with prednisone and high-grade proteinuria (>5 g/d) but not race or ethnicity were independently associated with a decreased probability of remission. Adverse effects during the 12-mo protocol included insulin-requiring diabetes (one with prednisone and two with CsA), pneumonia (one with prednisone and two with CsA), and localized herpes zoster (two with IVCY). In conclusion, regimens containing CsA or IVCY are each more effective than prednisone alone in inducing remission of proteinuria among patients with LMN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Howard A Austin
- Kidney Disease Section, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Building 10, CRC 5-2551, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1455, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
79
|
Szeto CC, Kwan BCH, Lai FMM, Tam LS, Li EKM, Chow KM, Gang W, Li PKT. Tacrolimus for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus with pure class V nephritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2008; 47:1678-81. [PMID: 18753192 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/ken335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The treatment of pure membranous (class V) lupus nephropathy remains unsatisfactory. We studied the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus in the treatment of membranous nephritis secondary to SLE. METHODS We recruited 18 consecutive SLE patients (tacrolimus group) with recently confirmed biopsy-proven class V lupus nephritis. They were treated with a tailing dose of oral prednisolone and tacrolimus 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/day for 6 months, followed by maintenance prednisolone and AZA. The rate of resolution of proteinuria and SLEDAI were compared with 19 historical controls treated with oral cyclophosphamide or AZA (control group). All patients were followed for 12 months. RESULTS Baseline clinical characteristics were comparable between the groups. For the tacrolimus group, the complete and partial remission rates were 27.8 and 50.0%, respectively at 12 weeks; for the control group, they were 15.8 and 47.4%, respectively (overall chi-square test, P = 0.5). However, tacrolimus group had faster resolution of proteinuria than the control group by the general linear model with repeated measures (P = 0.032). At 12 weeks, proteinuria was reduced by 76.2 +/- 17.0% for the tacrolimus group and 47.1 +/- 51.1% for the control group (P = 0.028). Serial change in renal function and SLEDAI score did not differ between the groups. During the study period, four patients of the tacrolimus group, and 11 of the control group, developed lupus flare (P = 0.027). There was no serious adverse effect in the tacrolimus group. CONCLUSIONS A 6-month course of tacrolimus is a safe and effective treatment of pure class V (membranous) lupus nephritis. As compared with conventional cytotoxic treatment, tacrolimus possibly results in a faster resolution of proteinuria, and a lower risk of lupus flare within 1 yr. The long-term effect and optimal regimen of tacrolimus require further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C-C Szeto
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
80
|
Remission of proteinuria in primary glomerulonephritis: we know the goal but do we know the price? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 4:550-9. [PMID: 18725916 DOI: 10.1038/ncpneph0915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2008] [Accepted: 07/09/2008] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and IgA nephropathy are the most commonly recognized types of primary glomerulonephritis that progress to end-stage renal disease. Persistent proteinuria is a major determinant of such progression. Reduction of proteinuria slows progression of renal disease and improves renal survival, but many of the agents used to reduce proteinuria carry a considerable risk of toxicity. The assessment of benefit versus risk of these medications can be further complicated by the temporal disconnect between the onset of benefit and of serious adverse events. In addition, relapses are common in these disorders and there is often a need for retreatment. Such retreatment might lead to repeated and/or prolonged drug exposure and to the oversight or underestimation of the cumulative dose of these agents because of the potentially extended interval between relapses. Consequently, it is very important to constantly review each patient's status and take into account their age, comorbid conditions and cumulative drug exposure when assessing treatment options. The potentially delayed development of adverse events also emphasizes the need for long-term surveillance of patients who receive immunosuppressive treatment for glomerular disease, often well beyond their drug exposure period and even when the treatment has been successful.
Collapse
|
81
|
Goumenos DS. What have we learned from the use of ciclosporin A in the treatment of nephrotic patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2008; 9:1695-704. [DOI: 10.1517/14656566.9.10.1695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
82
|
Sawada K, Fujishima N, Hirokawa M. Acquired pure red cell aplasia: updated review of treatment. Br J Haematol 2008; 142:505-14. [PMID: 18510682 PMCID: PMC2592349 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2008.07216.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a syndrome characterized by a severe normocytic anaemia, reticulocytopenia, and absence of erythroblasts from an otherwise normal bone marrow. Primary PRCA, or secondary PRCA which has not responded to treatment of the underlying disease, is treated as an immunologically-mediated disease. Although vigorous immunosuppressive treatments induce and maintain remissions in a majority of patients, they carry an increased risk of serious complications. Corticosteroids were used in the treatment of PRCA and this has been considered the treatment of first choice although relapse is not uncommon. Cyclosporine A (CsA) has become established as one of the leading drugs for treatment of PRCA. However, common concerns have been the number of patients treated with CsA who achieve sustained remissions and the number that relapse. This article reviews the current status of CsA therapy and compares it to other treatments for diverse PRCAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Sawada
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Haematology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
83
|
Fervenza FC, Sethi S, Specks U. Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy: Diagnosis and Treatment. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2008; 3:905-19. [PMID: 18235148 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.04321007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando C Fervenza
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street, SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
84
|
Deegens JKJ, Wetzels JFM. Membranous nephropathy in the older adult: epidemiology, diagnosis and management. Drugs Aging 2007; 24:717-32. [PMID: 17727303 DOI: 10.2165/00002512-200724090-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy is the most important cause of the nephrotic syndrome in elderly patients (aged >65 years). The clinical presentation is similar in older and younger patients, although elderly patients more often present with renal failure. Notably, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is usually lower in the elderly due to the physiological decline in GFR after the age of 30 years. Secondary causes, especially malignancies, are more common in older patients with membranous nephropathy. Therefore, elderly patients should undergo a thorough examination to exclude a secondary cause. The prognosis of elderly patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy is not very different from that of younger patients. All elderly patients should receive symptomatic treatment aimed at reducing hypertension, oedema, proteinuria and hyperlipidaemia. It is recommended that elderly patients with a low serum albumin (<2 g/dL) receive prophylactic anticoagulation because of a high risk for thrombosis. Immunosuppressive therapy should be reserved for elderly patients at high risk of progression to end-stage renal disease because the elderly are particularly prone to the adverse effects and infectious complications of immunosuppressive therapy. High-risk elderly patients are characterised by renal insufficiency (GFR <45 mL/min/1.73m(2)), an increase in serum creatinine of >25% or a severe persistent nephrotic syndrome not responding to symptomatic treatment. In addition, elderly patients with a relatively normal GFR (>or=45 mL/min/1.73m(2)) and high urinary excretion of beta(2)-microglobulin and IgG are also at increased risk of developing end-stage renal disease; however, the deterioration in renal function is usually a slow process. Therefore, such patients benefit from immunosuppressive therapy only if their life expectancy is good. If immunosuppressive therapy is started, first-line treatment consists of prednisone and cyclophosphamide. If cyclophosphamide is contraindicated or fails to induce a remission, ciclosporin could be used. Treatment with ciclosporin should be limited to patients with a relatively normal renal function (GFR >60 mL/min/1.73m(2)) in view of its nephrotoxicity in patients with renal dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen K J Deegens
- Department of Nephrology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | | |
Collapse
|
85
|
Cattran DC, Alexopoulos E, Heering P, Hoyer PF, Johnston A, Meyrier A, Ponticelli C, Saito T, Choukroun G, Nachman P, Praga M, Yoshikawa N. Cyclosporin in idiopathic glomerular disease associated with the nephrotic syndrome : workshop recommendations. Kidney Int 2007; 72:1429-47. [PMID: 17898700 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ki.5002553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Management of idiopathic glomerular disease associated with nephrotic syndrome (INS) remains controversial and one of the most complex areas relates to utilization of the drug cyclosporin. This is despite its demonstrated effectiveness in several histologic types of the INS in randomized controlled trials. Cyclosporin is effective in inducing remission of proteinuria in approximately 80% of steroid-sensitive cases of minimal change disease (MCD). Cyclosporin is also effective in both the induction of remission and long-term preservation of renal function in steroid-dependent/-resistant MCD and steroid-resistant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The overall response rate in FSGS is lower than in MCD, and long-term therapy (>12 months) may be required to both achieve remission and sustain it. Cyclosporin therapy is also of benefit in reducing proteinuria in 70-80% of patients with steroid-resistant membranous nephropathy (MGN). In MGN, the maximum benefit is often delayed compared to MCD (>12 weeks). Cyclosporin is generally well tolerated and safe. The major concern remains the nephrotoxicity, but with careful monitoring of the patient's renal function; minimizing the maintenance dose and utilizing repeat renal biopsy in those receiving long-term therapy, this risk can be minimized. The algorithms have been developed derived from the best evidence in the literature in each of the histologic types to help provide a guide to the integration of cyclosporin into the management of INS for the practicing nephrologist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D C Cattran
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
86
|
Abstract
The treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy is heavily debated because of wide variation in outcome. A rational treatment strategy is needed to appropriately administer conservative treatment to the low-risk group but immunosuppressive therapy to those with medium or high risk of renal deterioration. Currently, combinations of steroids with alkylating agents are best studied. Newer forms of immunosuppressive treatment are currently under study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K N Lai
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
87
|
Jha V, Ganguli A, Saha TK, Kohli HS, Sud K, Gupta KL, Joshi K, Sakhuja V. A randomized, controlled trial of steroids and cyclophosphamide in adults with nephrotic syndrome caused by idiopathic membranous nephropathy. J Am Soc Nephrol 2007; 18:1899-904. [PMID: 17494881 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2007020166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Universal consensus regarding the need for and the modality of therapy has not been formed because of a lack of controlled trials of sufficient size, quality, and duration. This study compared the effect of a 6-mo course of alternating prednisolone and cyclophosphamide with supportive treatment in adults with nephrotic syndrome caused by IMN on doubling of serum creatinine, development of ESRD, and quality of life in a randomized, controlled trial. Patients were followed up for 10 yr. Data were analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis. A total of 93 patients completed the study. Of the 47 patients who received the experimental protocol, 34 achieved remission (15 complete and 19 partial), compared with 16 (five complete, 11 partial) of 46 in the control group (P < 0.0001). The 10-yr dialysis-free survival was 89 and 65% (P = 0.016), and the likelihood of survival without death, dialysis, and doubling of serum creatinine were 79 and 44% (P = 0.0006) in the two groups. Treated patients exhibited significantly lower prevalence of edema, hypertension, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia that required therapy, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blocker use, and better quality of life on follow-up. The incidence of infections was similar in the two groups. In conclusion, untreated IMN with nephrotic syndrome is associated with a high risk for deterioration of renal function. A 6-mo regimen of cyclophosphamide and steroids induces remissions in a high proportion, arrests progression of renal insufficiency, and improves quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vivekanand Jha
- Department of Nephrology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160 012 India.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
88
|
Praga M, Barrio V, Juárez GF, Luño J. Tacrolimus monotherapy in membranous nephropathy: A randomized controlled trial. Kidney Int 2007; 71:924-30. [PMID: 17377504 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ki.5002215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Although some patients with membranous nephropathy achieve a spontaneous remission, renal function continues to deteriorate in others. We conducted a prospective randomized trial evaluating monotherapy with tacrolimus to achieve complete or partial remission in patients with biopsy-proven membranous nephropathy. Twenty-five patients received tacrolimus (0.05 mg/kg/day) over 12 months with a 6-month taper, whereas 23 patients were in the control group. The probability of remission in the treatment group was 58, 82, and 94% after 6, 12, and 18 months but only 10, 24, and 35%, respectively in the control group. The decrease in proteinuria was significantly greater in the treatment group. Notably, six patients in the control group and only one in the treatment group reached the secondary end point of a 50% increase in their serum creatinine. No patient in the tacrolimus group showed a relapse during the taper period. Nephrotic syndrome reappeared in almost half of the patients who were in remission by the 18th month after tacrolimus withdrawal. We conclude that tacrolimus is a very useful therapeutic option for patients with membranous nephropathy and preserved renal function. The majority of patients experienced remission with a significant reduction in the risk for deteriorating renal function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Praga
- Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
89
|
Tse KC, Lam MF, Tang SCW, Tang CSO, Chan TM. A pilot study on tacrolimus treatment in membranous or quiescent lupus nephritis with proteinuria resistant to angiotensin inhibition or blockade. Lupus 2007; 16:46-51. [PMID: 17283585 DOI: 10.1177/0961203306073167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Persistent proteinuria in patients with quiescent lupus can result from membranous lupus nephritis and/or glomerular scarring following previous flares. This pilot study examined the effects of tacrolimus over two years in six patients with membranous/inactive lupus nephritis and persistent proteinuria despite angiotensin inhibition/blockade. Tacrolimus treatment reduced proteinuria and increased serum albumin (time effect, P = 0.047 and 0.032 respectively). Compared with baseline levels, proteinuria improved by more than 50% in five patients (83.3%) and hypoalbuminaemia was corrected in four patients. The efficacy was most prominent in four patients with biopsy-proven membranous lupus nephritis, whose protienuria improved by over 80%. One patient developed biopsy-proven chronic nephrotoxicity after 10 months of tacrolimus treatment, despite non-excessive blood levels. These data suggest that tacrolimus is an effective treatment for proteinuria due to membranous lupus nephritis, but should probably be reserved for patients who are refractory to other non-nephrotoxic treatments, in view of the potential risk of subclinical nephrotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K C Tse
- Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
90
|
Lee BH, Cho HY, Kang HG, Ha IS, Cheong HI, Moon KC, Lim IS, Choi Y. Idiopathic membranous nephropathy in children. Pediatr Nephrol 2006; 21:1707-15. [PMID: 16951933 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-006-0246-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2006] [Revised: 05/25/2006] [Accepted: 05/30/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (MN) is a rare cause of asymptomatic proteinuria (AP) or nephrotic syndrome (NS) in childhood. To improve our understanding of its clinical course, we retrospectively reviewed 19 cases of idiopathic MN seen in our hospital over a period of 28.5 years, i.e., from January 1977 to July 2005. Eight patients (39%) had AP and 11 (61%) presented with NS. All eight AP patients achieved remission, regardless of treatment modality. Oral corticosteroid was given to all 11 NS patients, but only three of them responded to corticosteroid. Of the eight steroid non-responders, three achieved remissions with the addition of cyclosporine, and the five who were not administered additional immunosuppressive drugs had persistent NS. At the latest evaluation, all six NS patients that achieved remission remained free of proteinuria and had a normal renal function. Moreover, two of the 5 steroid non-responders showed persistent nephrotic-range proteinuria but a stable renal function. The remaining three steroid non-responders progressed into chronic renal insufficiency, and this progression was preceded by renal vein thrombosis (RVT) in two of the three patients. Presentation with NS (P=0.045) and the development of RVT (P=0.010) were identified as poor prognostic factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beom Hee Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, 28 Yongon-Dong, Chongno-Gu, Seoul, 110-744, South Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
91
|
Troyanov S, Roasio L, Pandes M, Herzenberg AM, Cattran DC. Renal pathology in idiopathic membranous nephropathy: A new perspective. Kidney Int 2006; 69:1641-8. [PMID: 16572119 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ki.5000289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Histology findings in idiopathic membranous nephropathy (MGN) have been associated with the risk of renal failure, but whether they are independent of the clinical variables at the time of biopsy, predict rate of progression, or should guide therapy is uncertain. Renal biopsies of 389 adult MGN patients were evaluated semiquantitatively for interstitial fibrosis, tubular atrophy, vascular sclerosis, focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis lesions (FSGS), complement deposition, and stage and synchrony of deposits by electron microscopy (EM). Associations were tested between these findings and the rate of renal function decline (slope), renal survival, remission in proteinuria, and response to immunosuppression. Patients with a greater degree of tubulo-interstitial disease, vascular sclerosis, and secondary FSGS were older, had a higher mean arterial pressure, and a lower creatinine clearance at presentation. Although these histologic features were associated with a reduced renal survival, they did not predict this outcome independently of the baseline clinical variables nor did they correlate with the rate of decline in function or with baseline proteinuria. Furthermore, the severity of tubulo-interstitial and vascular lesions did not preclude a remission in proteinuria in those who received immunosuppressive therapy. Neither stage nor synchronicity of EM deposits nor the amount of complement deposition predicted renal survival but the latter did correlate with progression rate. In MGN, certain histologic changes are associated with renal survival outcome. However, the indicators of chronic injury are associated with age, blood pressure, and creatinine clearance at presentation and not with rate of disease progression or initial proteinuria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Troyanov
- NCSB 11-1256 585 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
92
|
Thomas M. Membranous nephropathy: role of cyclosporin therapy. Nephrology (Carlton) 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1797.2006.00634.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
93
|
du Buf-Vereijken PWG, Branten AJW, Wetzels JFM. Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy: Outline and Rationale of a Treatment Strategy. Am J Kidney Dis 2005; 46:1012-29. [PMID: 16310567 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2005.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2005] [Accepted: 08/15/2005] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome. The treatment of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy is heavily debated. Based on literature data and our own experience, we propose a rational treatment strategy. Patients with renal insufficiency (serum creatinine level > 1.5 mg/dL [> 135 micromol/L]) are at greatest risk for the development of end-stage renal disease and should receive immunosuppressive therapy. In patients with normal renal function (serum creatinine level < 1.5 mg/dL [< 135 micromol/L]), risk for developing end-stage renal disease can be estimated by measuring urinary excretion of beta2-microglobulin or alpha1-microglobulin and immunoglobulin G. For low-risk patients, a wait-and-see policy is advised. High-risk patients likely benefit from immunosuppressive therapy. Currently, combinations of steroids with chlorambucil or cyclophosphamide are the best studied. We prefer cyclophosphamide in view of its fewer side effects. Cyclosporine may be an alternative option in patients with well-preserved renal function, although long-term data are lacking. Other immunosuppressive agents, such as mycophenolate mofetil or rituximab, currently are under study; however, data are insufficient to support their routine use.
Collapse
|
94
|
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cattran
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto General Hospital, NCSB 11-1256, 585 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2N2, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
95
|
Schieppati A, Perna A, Remuzzi G. Recent developments in the management of membranous nephropathy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2005; 6:521-32. [PMID: 15989617 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.6.5.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy is one of the most commonly encountered forms of nephrotic syndrome in adults. The natural history of the disease, observed in a small sample of untreated patients, reveals that a large proportion of patients experience spontaneous remission, whereas approximately one third of them progress towards renal insufficiency, and thus require dialysis. Hence, several attempts to treat this condition have been investigated and several protocols, based on different combinations of corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressive agents, have been proposed. However, none of these protocols has been uniformly adopted by renal physicians, either because of no or limited efficacy of most of them, or due to the potential of short- and long-term untoward effects. In this review, we examine the available data on the natural course of the disease and the possibility of identifying clinical and laboratory characteristics that could help to predict the course of membranous nephropathy. We also summarise the results of the most relevant clinical trials, and offer an updated meta-analysis of treatment studies, including the latest data on cyclosporin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Schieppati
- Negri Bergamo Laboratories, Via Gavazzeni 11, 24100 Bergamo, Italy.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
96
|
Berg AL, Arnadottir M. ACTH-induced improvement in the nephrotic syndrome in patients with a variety of diagnoses. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2004; 19:1305-7. [PMID: 15102969 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfh110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lena Berg
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital, S-221 85 Lund, Sweden.
| | | |
Collapse
|
97
|
Schieppati A, Perna A, Zamora J, Giuliano GA, Braun N, Remuzzi G. Immunosuppressive treatment for idiopathic membranous nephropathy in adults with nephrotic syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004:CD004293. [PMID: 15495098 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd004293.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is the most common form of nephrotic syndrome in adults. The disease shows a benign or indolent course in the majority of patients, with a rate of spontaneous complete or partial remission of nephrotic syndrome as high as 30% or more. Despite this, 30-40% of patients progress toward end-stage renal failure (ESRF) within 5-15 years. OBJECTIVES To assess the benefits and harms of immunosuppressive treatment for IMN in adults. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Renal Group Specialised Register (December 2003), The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (Cochrane Library Issue 4, 2003), MEDLINE and Pre-MEDLINE (1966 - December 2003), EMBASE (1980 - December 2003), reference lists of nephrology textbooks, review articles, prospective trial registers, relevant trials and abstracts from nephrology scientific meetings and the internet without language restriction. We also contacted principal investigators of controlled studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing any immunosuppressive interventions for the treatment of IMN in adults. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently assessed and extracted information. Information was collected on method, participants, interventions and outcomes (death, ESRF, proteinuria, serum creatinine, GRF, remission, adverse events). MAIN RESULTS A total of 18 trials with 1025 patients were included. No differences were found when we combined data of all treatment categories as a group and compared them with placebo or no treatment. Oral glucocorticoids. No beneficial effect on any of the end points chosen for efficacy was observed. Alkylating agents showed a significant beneficial effect on complete remission (RR 2.37, 95%CI 1.32 to 4.25, P = 0.004) but not on partial remission (RR 1.22, 95%CI 0.63 to 2.35, P = 0.56) or complete or partial remission (RR 1.55, 95%CI 0.72 to 3.34, P = 0.27). Cyclophosphamide treatment resulted in significantly lower rate of discontinuations due to adverse events as compared to chlorambucil (RR 2.34, 95%CI 1.25 to 4.39, P = 0.008). There was no evidence of clinically relevant differences in favour of cyclosporin and there was insufficient data on anti-proliferative agents. REVIEWERS' CONCLUSIONS This review failed to show any long-term effect of immunosuppressive treatment on patient and/or renal survival. There was an increased number of discontinuations due to adverse events in immunosuppressive treatment groups. Within the class of alkylating agents there is weak evidence supporting the efficacy of cyclophosphamide as compared to chlorambucil. On the other hand, cyclophosphamide had fewer side effects leading to patient withdrawal than chlorambucil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Schieppati
- Renal Medicine, Clinical Research Center for Rare Diseases "Aldo e Cele Daccò", Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Via Gavazzeni, 11, Bergamo, Italy, 24125.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
98
|
Troyanov S, Wall CA, Miller JA, Scholey JW, Cattran DC. Idiopathic membranous nephropathy: Definition and relevance of a partial remission. Kidney Int 2004; 66:1199-205. [PMID: 15327418 DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-1755.2004.00873.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Membranous nephropathy (MGN) remains the most common cause of adult onset nephrotic syndrome, and within the primary glomerulonephritis group is a leading cause of renal failure. A complete remission (CR) confers an excellent long-term prognosis, but the quantitative benefits of partial remissions (PR) have not been defined. METHODS This study evaluated the rate of renal function decline (slope), relapse, and renal survival in nephrotic MGN patients with CR, PR, or no remission (NR). Multivariate analysis included clinical and laboratory data at presentation and over follow-up, blood pressure control and agents employed, and immunosuppressive therapy. RESULTS The study cohort consisted of 348 nephrotic MGN patients with a minimum of 12 months follow-up identified from the Toronto Glomerulonephritis Registry. Over a median follow-up of 60 months, 102 experienced a CR, 136 had a PR, and 110 had no remission. A PR was independently predictive of slope and survival from renal failure by multivariate analysis (hazard ratio 0.08, 95% CI 0.03-0.19, P < 0.001). Benefit from immunosuppression could only be shown in a subset of high-risk patients. Treatment-related PR had the same long-term implication as spontaneous ones. Relapses from PR were high (47%) but often reversible. CONCLUSION A partial remission is an important therapeutic target with implications for both progression rate and renal survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stéphan Troyanov
- Department of Nephrology, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
99
|
du Buf-Vereijken PWG, Wetzels JFM. Efficacy of a second course of immunosuppressive therapy in patients with membranous nephropathy and persistent or relapsing disease activity. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2004; 19:2036-43. [PMID: 15187191 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfh312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A single course of immunosuppressive treatment improves renal survival in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (iMN) and renal insufficiency. However, not all patients respond and relapses occur within 5 years in 30% of patients. It is unknown if a second course of immunosuppressive therapy is effective in such patients. METHODS We have prospectively studied and evaluated the clinical course in 15 patients (14 male, one female; age: 52+/-12 years) with iMN who have received a repeated course of immunosuppressive therapy because of deteriorating renal function associated with relapsing or persistent nephrotic syndrome. RESULTS The first course of immunosuppression was started 8 months (range: 0-143 months) after renal biopsy and consisted of chlorambucil (n = 8) or cyclophosphamide (n = 7); the second course consisted of cyclophosphamide in all patients. The interval between the first and second course was 40 months (range: 7-112 months). Total follow-up was 110 months (range: 46-289 months). Renal function and proteinuria improved at least temporarily in all patients after the second course. During follow-up, an additional course of therapy was given in four patients. Status at the end of follow-up was complete remission (n = 2), partial remission (n = 8), persistent proteinuria (n = 3), end-stage renal disease (n = 1) and death (n = 1, due to cardiovascular disease while nephrotic). Renal survival was 86% at 5 and 10 years of follow-up. The repeated courses of immunosuppression have resulted in a gain of dialysis-free survival time of > or =93 months (range: 43-192 months). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that patients with iMN who do not respond well or relapse after a first course of immunosuppressive therapy and have renal insufficiency should be offered a second course of immunosuppression. Such a strategy maintains renal function in the majority of patients.
Collapse
|
100
|
Abstract
Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) remains one of the most common causes of the nephrotic syndrome (NS) in adults. Although the natural history is extremely variable, approximately two thirds of the patients will have persistent high-grade proteinuria and/or develop renal failure over a decade of observation. On the other hand, the remaining third of patients will remit spontaneously and potentially toxic therapy should be avoided in this group. Our capacity to predict which patient will progress at an early stage of the disease has improved substantially in the past 10 years. We present the data from studies of cyclosporine (CSA) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) treatment of IMN with their level of evidence in support of efficacy. In addition, based on data related to predicting prognosis, we assign a risk for progression category to the trial patients at entry into these studies. The data are presented in this format so the reader will be able to better discern the risk benefit of treatment within each category and the rationale for our subsequent grade of recommendation for the use of these agents in IMN. CSA has been shown in randomized controlled trials in both the medium and high risk of progression categories of IMN patients to improve proteinuria and preserve renal function at least in the short term in up to two thirds of patients. Other studies suggest prolonged therapy beyond 6 months to 1 year may reduce the high relapse rate after CSA treatment supporting more long-term, continuous, or combination therapy in IMN treatment. The data in favor of MMF treatment of this disease is much weaker and are derived from pilot studies. Only one report applied MMF specifically to IMN patients. In these medium to high risk of progression patients, approximately one-half had a 50% reduction in their baseline proteinuria without a significant alteration in their serum creatinine level. MMF's role as a single agent or as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of IMN needs more rigorous evaluation.
Collapse
|