Cyclosporin A therapy for Henoch-Schönlein nephritis with nephrotic-range proteinuria

Adding Methylprednisolone and Cyclophosphamide Pulse Therapy Provides No Benefit in Pediatric IgAV Nephritis Grade III

Although immunoglobulin (Ig) A vasculitis (IgAV) nephritis is a common form of secondary pediatric glomerulonephritis, there is no consensus on an appropriate therapeutic regimen for moderate-to-severe pediatric IgAV nephritis grade III or the effectiveness of aggressive immunosuppressive therapy. The objective is to evaluate the efficacy and renal outcomes of methylprednisolone pulse therapy with or without cyclophosphamide pulse therapy for grade III IgAV nephritis in children. This retrospective, single-center study included 115 children with IgAV nephritis grade III. The primary endpoint was proteinuria reduction from moderate or severe levels to a normal level. The secondary endpoint was stable renal function, that is, an increase of less than 25% from the baseline creatinine level over the 4-month follow-up period. Among 115 children with IgAV nephritis grade III, 59 received methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide double-pulse treatment; methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide double-pulses did not significantly improve proteinuria remission. Proteinuria improvement did not show any difference with or without cyclophosphamide treatment. Furthermore, methylprednisolone pulse therapy showed no benefit over steroid therapy alone. The demographic and baseline disease characteristics among the treatment groups were well-balanced. The rates of complete remission in 24-hour proteinuria excretion over the 4-month follow-up period in the methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide double-pulse, methylprednisolone plus oral prednisolone, and oral prednisolone-only groups were 91.52%, 92.31%, and 100%, respectively. Renal function remained stable in all the patients. Most patients with IgAV nephritis grade III showed a good prognosis. However, the addition of methylprednisolone and/or cyclophosphamide pulses did not offer benefits over steroid-only therapy.

The scope of treatment of pediatric IgA vasculitis nephritis and its outcome: a Pediatric Nephrology Research Consortium study

BACKGROUND

IgA vasculitis (IgAV) is the most common type of vasculitis in children. There is a lack of consensus for management of significant IgAV nephritis (IgAVN). This study was designed to identify the most used treatment options and describe their efficacy.

METHODS

This is a multicenter retrospective study of children age 1-21 years with IgAVN who were managed for at least 6 months by a nephrologist. Subjects with at least microscopic hematuria and proteinuria and/or decreased kidney function were enrolled. Kidney outcome was assessed by eGFR and urine protein/creatinine (UPC) ratios at 2-4 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months post-diagnosis.

RESULTS

A total of 128 subjects with median age of 7 years (range 2-18) were included. Of these, 69 subjects had kidney biopsy with crescents detected in 53%. AKI (P = 0.039), nephrosis (P = 0.038), and crescents on biopsy (P = 0.013) were more likely in older patients. Patients with UPC > 1 mg/mg were more likely to get a kidney biopsy (P < 0.001) and to be treated with steroids ± immunosuppressive (IS) agents (P = 0.001). Sixty-six percent of patients were treated with steroids and/or IS agents for variable durations. Anti-metabolite agents were the most common IS agents used with variability in dosing and duration. At 12 months, most subjects had a normal eGFR (79%) (median 123, range 68-207 mL/min/1.73 m²) and no proteinuria (median UPC 0.15, range 0.01-4.02 mg/mg).

CONCLUSIONS

IS agents are frequently used in managing IgAVN associated with heavy proteinuria, nephrosis, and/or AKI. Prospective studies are needed to determine indications and needed duration of IS therapy. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.

Early clinical course of biopsy-proven IgA vasculitis nephritis

BACKGROUND

IgA vasculitis (IgAV) is the most common form of systemic vasculitis in childhood and frequently involves the kidney. A minority of patients with IgA vasculitis nephritis (IgAVN), especially those presenting with heavy proteinuria and/or kidney failure at onset, are at risk of chronic end-stage kidney disease. For deciding upon treatment intensity, knowledge of the short-term clinical course of IgAVN is needed to improve treatment algorithms.

METHODS

For this retrospective multicenter study, the medical records of 66 children with biopsy-proven IgAVN were reviewed. Age, gender, medical history and therapeutic interventions were recorded. Laboratory data included serum creatinine, albumin, urinary protein excretion (UPE) and glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Threshold values were determined for each parameter, full remission was defined as no proteinuria and eGFR > 90 ml/min/1.73m².

RESULTS

Median age at onset of IgAVN was 8.9 years. 14.1% of the children presented with nephrotic syndrome, 50% had an eGFR below 90 ml/min/1.73 m² and 51.5% showed cellular crescents in renal histology. The treatment regimens varied notably. Forty-four patients were treated with immunosuppression; 17 patients with crescents or nephrotic syndrome were treated with corticosteroid (CS) pulse therapy. After 6 months, UPE had decreased from 3.7 to 0.3 g/g creatinine and the proportion of patients with a decreased eGFR had fallen from 50.0% to 35.5%. Thirteen children (26.5%) achieved full remission within 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

In most patients with IgAVN proteinuria decreases slowly and kidney function improves, but full remission is reached only in a minority after 6 months. Persistent heavy proteinuria in the first two months rarely developed into long-term proteinuria. Therefore, decisions for more intense treatment should take into account the course of UPE over time. For a comparison of treatment effects, patient numbers were too small. Prospective, randomized controlled trials are necessary to clarify risk factors and the effect of immunosuppressive therapies.

Individualized medication based on pharmacogenomics and treatment progress in children with IgAV nephritis

Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV) nephritis, also known as Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN), is a condition in which small blood vessel inflammation and perivascular IgA deposition in the kidney caused by neutrophil activation, which more often leads to chronic kidney disease and accounts for 1%–2% of children with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The treatment principles recommended by the current management guidelines include general drug treatment, support measures and prevention of sequelae, among which the therapeutic drugs include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents and angiotensin system inhibitors. However, the concentration range of immunosuppressive therapy is narrow and the individualized difference is large, and the use of corticosteroids does not seem to improve the persistent nephropathy and prognosis of children with IgAV. Therefore, individualized maintenance treatment of the disease and stable renal prognosis are still difficult problems. Genetic information helps to predict drug response in advance. It has been proved that most gene polymorphisms of cytochrome oxidase P450 and drug transporter can affect drug efficacy and adverse reactions (ADR). Drug therapy based on genetics and pharmacogenomics is beneficial to providing safer and more effective treatment for children. Based on the pathogenesis of IgAV, this paper summarizes the current therapeutic drugs, explores potential therapeutic drugs, and focuses on the therapeutic significance of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants in children with IgAV nephritis at the level of pharmacogenomics. In addition, the individualized application of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants in children with different genotypes was analyzed, in order to provide a more comprehensive reference for the individualized treatment of IgAV nephritis in children.

Association of the clinicopathological characteristics and proteinuria remission of pediatric IgAV with nephrotic-range proteinuria: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

IgA vasculitis (IgAV) combined with nephrotic-range proteinuria is uncommon, and nephrotic-range proteinuria is considered a risk factor for poor prognosis in children with IgAV. There are few clinical studies with large samples.

METHODS

Children with IgAV and nephrotic-range proteinuria who were hospitalized at the Department of Nephrology, Rheumatology and Immunology, Hunan Children's Hospital, from March 2008 to January 2020 were retrospectively studied; the patients were aged ≤18 years and were followed up for ≥12 months. We analyzed clinical characteristics, pathological changes, treatment responses, and their relationships in patients with IgAV combined with nephrotic-range proteinuria.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-seven children with an average age at onset of IgAV with nephritis (IgAVN) of 8.0 years (interquartile range (IQR), 6.0-10.0) were enrolled; 65.7% were aged 6-10 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.35:1. All children had both nephrotic-range proteinuria and hematuria, 49 (17.7%) had hypoalbuminemia, and 9 (3.2%) had estimated glomerular filtration rate  < 90 (mL/min/1.73 m²). All included children were followed up for at least 1 year. At 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up, the remission rates of proteinuria in children with IgAV combined with nephrotic-range proteinuria were 27.8%, 62.1%, and 83.0%, respectively, and the remission rates of hematuria were 1.4%, 8.7%, and 35.7%, respectively. In addition, children with age at onset of IgAV with nephrotic-range proteinuria ≥10 years, who were female, who had proteinuria ≥100 mg/kg/24 h, and who had a pathological grade III or above had lower remission rates of hematuria and proteinuria (P < 0.05). Multivariate factor analysis was performed by logistic regression and showed age at onset of IgAVN ≥ 10 years and crescents to be risk factors for nonremission of proteinuria at 12 months of follow-up (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Age at onset of IgAVN, sex, proteinuria level, pathological grade, and crescents significantly affect proteinuria remission in children with IgAV combined with nephrotic-range proteinuria.

Leflunomide therapy for IgA vasculitis with nephritis in children

BACKGROUND

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP), also called IgA vasculitis, is a systemic vasculitis characterized by deposits of immunoglobulin A in blood vessels. Renal impairment of these patients is the main determinant of prognosis. The optimal treatment of HSP nephritis (HSPN) in children remains controversial, but many clinicians administer an immunosuppressive agent with a corticosteroid. A previous study reported that leflunomide (LEF) with a corticosteroid was effective for adult patients with HSPN and nephrotic proteinuria. However, data on this treatment in pediatric patients is limited.

METHODS

We described our experience at a single center on the use of LEF in 5 pediatric patients who had IgA vasculitis with proteinuria that was nearly 50 mg/kg (nephrotic range) and remained high despite administration of intravenous steroid, and biopsy-proven nephritis. All patients had class II to IIIb lesions based on the International Study of Kidney Disease in Children (ISKDC).

RESULTS

We successfully treated all 5 children who had IgA vasculitis with nephritis using LEF with a corticosteroid. Four patients achieved a complete remission of proteinuria, and 1 patient had significantly reduced proteinuria. The children received LEF for 6 months to 12 months, and none of them had severe adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first case series to report successful treatment of pediatric HSPN with LEF in combination with a corticosteroid.

Renal biopsy in children with IgA vasculitis

Introduction

Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSN) is defined as Henoch-Schönlein purpura with kidney involvement, including hematuria and/or proteinuria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the data of HSN patients who underwent renal biopsy, and compare the main clinical and laboratory parameters that may affect renal biopsy findings, treatment protocols, and short- and long-term outcome of those patients.

Methods

Biopsies performed in 72 HSN patients between January 2007 to January 2017 were retrospectively evaluated. They were divided into two groups according to renal biopsy classification of the International Study of Kidney Disease in Children. Renal outcome, clinical and laboratory parameters, treatment protocols, and outcome were compared between groups. Short- and long-term follow-up of patients were evaluated.

Results

Of 72 patients, 47 were male (65.3%) and 44 (61.1%) were ≤10 years of age. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio was found higher in patients with scrotal involvement (p=0.042). Short-term unfavorable outcome was significantly higher in patients with scrotal involvement (p=0.038). Patients with hypertension and decreased creatinine clearance were found to have more unfavorable outcomes in long-term follow-up (p=0.029, p=0.040).

Conclusion

Cyclosporin-A and cyclophosphamide could be effective in steroid unresponsive HSN patients. Patients with scrotal involvement, decreased creatinine clearance, and hypertension should be closely monitored for sequelae of HSN.

Involvement of activated cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells in Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis

Objectives

Immunoglobulin A vasculitis/Henoch–Schönlein purpura (IgAV/HSP) is a major cause of vasculitis in children. It is often accompanied by nephritis (HSPN) and could progress to chronic kidney disease. Galactose‐deficient IgA₁ was recently reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of HSPN, for which immunosuppressive drugs are considered key treatment. However, the involvement of immune cells in the development of HSPN remains unclear.

Methods

We compared gene expressions of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) among healthy controls (n = 10), IgAV/HSP patients (n = 21) and HSPN patients (n = 8), which required nephritis development within 3 months of IgAV/HSP onset. Immunohistochemistry analysis and flow cytometry were performed to assess renal biopsy specimens and PBMCs, respectively. Serum CX3CL1 levels were measured by ELISA.

Results

GNLY and GZMB expressions increased in HSPN patients, consistent with increased number of glomerular granulysin‐ and/or granzyme B‐positive cells demonstrated by immunohistochemistry analysis. Additionally, circulating cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and natural killer (NK) cells were activated with the up‐regulated surface expressions of human leucocyte antigen DR (HLA‐DR) and CX3CR1 in HSPN patients with severe proteinuria. Renal biopsies demonstrated increased number of CD8⁺ cells and/or CD56⁺ cells and up‐regulated expression of glomerular CX3CL1, a specific ligand for CX3CR1, along with increased serum CX3CL1 level.

Conclusion

Activated CTLs and NK cells play roles in the development of nephritis in IgAV/HSP patients and can be used as novel biomarkers for HSPN.

Adult-onset IgA vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein): Update on therapy

Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV, formerly Henoch-Schönlein purpura) is a systemic inflammatory disease affecting small vessels. While it is common and usually benign in childhood, in adults it is rarer has a more severe course. Its main manifestations are cutaneous purpura, arthralgias or arthritis, acute enteritis and glomerulonephritis. Renal involvement is associated with a poor prognosis in adults. The treatment of adult-onset IgAV is still a matter of debate: although in patients with a non-severe phenotype remission can occur spontaneously, more severe cases may need immunosuppressive therapy. There are some areas of uncertainty with respect to the efficacy of immunosuppressive regimens: almost all data come from studies performed in children or from patients with IgA nephropathy and/or IgA-crescentic glomerulonephritis. The only randomised study performed in adults with IgAV and renal involvement showed that immunosuppressive therapy with cyclophosphamide did not improve renal outcome nor did it affect patient survival. The possible efficacy of other drugs is reported only in small case series. Recent evidences show that rituximab could be an effective therapeutic option for adult-onset IgAV, but this also needs to be confirmed in controlled trials. In this review, we focus on therapeutic options for adult-onset IgAV treatment, and discuss the main results of the studies performed so far.

Off-label use of tacrolimus in children with glomerular disease: Effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetics

Glomerular diseases are leading causes of end-stage renal disease in children. Tacrolimus is frequently used off-label in the treatment of glomerular diseases. The effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetic data of tacrolimus in the treatment of glomerular diseases in children are reviewed in this paper to provide evidence to support its rational use in clinical practice. The remission rates in previously published studies were different. In 19 clinical trials on children with nephrotic syndrome, the overall remission rate was 52.6-97.6%. In four clinical trials on children with lupus nephritis, the overall remission rate was 81.8-89.5%. In a pilot study with paediatric Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis patients, the overall remission rate was 100.0%. Infection, nephrotoxicity, gastrointestinal symptoms and hypertension are the most common adverse events. Body weight, age, CYP3A5 genotype, cystatin-C and daily dose of tacrolimus may have significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in children with glomerular disease. More prospective controlled trials with long follow-up are needed to demonstrate definitely the effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in children with glomerular diseases.

Methylprednisolone or cyclosporine a in the treatment of Henoch-Schönlein nephritis: a nationwide study

BACKGROUND

Optimal treatment of Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSN) remains unclear. We evaluated outcome of pediatric HSN patients treated initially with either methylprednisolone (MP) or cyclosporine A (CyA) in Finland between 1996 and 2011.

METHODS

Outcome of 62 HSN patients was evaluated by screening urine and blood samples (n = 51) or by collecting clinical parameters from medical charts until last follow-up visit (n = 11). Sixty (97%) patients had nephrotic-range proteinuria and/or ISKDC grade ≥ III before initial treatment. Patients were initially treated with either MP pulses (n = 42) followed by oral prednisone or with CyA (n = 20). Fifty-nine (95%) patients received angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and/or angiotensin receptor blockers.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up time was 10.8 years (range 3.2-21.2 years). One patient developed end-stage renal disease and another had decreased renal function (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73m²), both initially treated with MP (3%). Six patients (5 MP, 1 CyA) had eGFR between 60 and 89 mL/min/1.73m² (10%). Eighteen patients (13 MP, 5 CyA) had proteinuria and/or hematuria (29%) and four of them had proteinuria > 0.5 g/day at end of follow-up. Sixteen (38%) MP-treated and two (10%) CyA-treated patients needed additional immunosuppressive treatment (RR 3.81, 95% CI 1.16-14.3, p = 0.035). Late initiation of treatment was associated with an increased risk for persistent proteinuria.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term outcome was relatively good in both treatment groups. However, since urinary abnormalities may persist or develop, long-term follow-up of HSN patients is mandatory. Early initiation of treatment had a favorable effect on proteinuria.

Successful Treatment of IgA Vasculitis Complicated with Bowel Perforation and Crescentic Glomerulonephritis by Combination Therapy of Glucocorticoid, Cyclosporine and Factor XIII Replacement

We report the findings of an 18-year-old boy with immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV) complicated with bowel perforation and nephritis. He presented with abdominal pain, arthralgia and palpable purpura. Massive proteinuria developed during his clinical course. The patient was treated successfully using combination therapy of glucocorticoid (GC), cyclosporine (CYA) and factor XIII (F XIII) replacement. A standard treatment strategy for severe IgAV patients has not been established due to its rarity. Combination therapy using GC, CYA and F XIII replacement should be considered for severe IgAV patients.

Off-label use of tacrolimus in children with Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Tacrolimus is used off-label in the treatment of Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN) in children, with limited evidence-based data. Based on clinical empirical experience and mechanism of action, tacrolimus might be promoted as treatment for childhood HSPN. The objectives of this pilot study were to assess its effectiveness and safety, and to explore the potential impact of CYP3A5 genotype.

METHODS

Children with HSPN receiving tacrolimus as empirical treatment were included in this prospective, observational study. Effectiveness was classified as complete remission, partial remission or non-response. General safety data analyses during and after study drug exposure included adverse events, reasons for discontinuation, deaths, laboratory data and vital signs. Trough concentration was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacogenetic analysis was performed on the CYP3A5 gene.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients with a mean age of 7.5 (SD 2.1) years participated in the whole process of the study. Twelve patients reached complete remission and eight patients reached partial remission at the end of 6-month treatment. No patients discontinued tacrolimus treatment due to adverse events, and no drug-related adverse events were shown to have a causal association with tacrolimus therapy. Dose-adjusted trough concentration was significantly higher in children with CYP3A5*1 allele as compared with patients with CYP3A5*3/*3 genotype (170.7±100.9 vs 79.8±47.4 (ng/mL)/(mg/kg)).

CONCLUSION

This pilot study showed that tacrolimus might be an effective and well-tolerated drug for the treatment of HSPN in children. CYP3A5 polymorphism had a significant impact on tacrolimus concentration.

Mycophenolate mofetil following glucocorticoid treatment in Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis: the role of early initiation and therapeutic drug monitoring

BACKGROUND

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is the most common vasculitis in childhood and traditionally considered as a self-limiting disease. However, renal involvement can unfavorably determine long-term prognosis. The reported regimens to treat HSP nephritis (HSPN) are diverse, indicating that the most effective treatment remains controversial.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center study involved 18 patients presenting with HSPN and nephrotic-range proteinuria. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and identify a cut-off level for estimated mycophenolic acid area under the curve (eMPA-AUC_0-12h) values, which can predict complete remission with high sensitivity.

RESULTS

Despite prior insufficient therapeutic response to corticosteroids, 89% of patients showed a significant decrease in proteinuria after 1 month of MMF treatment. None of them relapsed during treatment; however, two children relapsed after discontinuation. Based on results of a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, an eMPA-AUC_0-12h >56.4 mg*h/l was a predictor for complete remission within 3 months (80% sensitivity, 83.3% specificity, p = 0.035). During MMF administration, we encountered no adverse event requiring discontinuation of treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that MMF is a safe and potentially effective secondary treatment option for children with HSPN to achieve and maintain long-term remission without serious side effects. To achieve complete remission within 3 months, resolve severe inflammatory glomerular lesions, and avoid progression to chronic kidney disease, we propose timely diagnosis and early initiation of MMF with an eMPA-AUC_0-12h value of 56.4 mg*h/l.

Management of Small Vessel Vasculitides

Inflammation mediated by cells of the immune system and necrosis are the most striking features observed at the histologic level in patients with vasculitides, clinical entities classified according to pathologic findings involving different organs, to etiology, or to size of vessels involved. Small vessel vasculitides (SVV) are a peculiar group of systemic disorders electively involving small intraparenchymal arteries, arterioles, capillaries, or venules and leading to different levels of vascular obstruction, tissue ischemia and risk of infarction; they can be divided into anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides and immune complex vasculitides. Despite the significant advances in understanding the whole disease process and pathophysiology of SVV, strong efforts are still needed to draft, share and spread guidelines in the therapeutic management of these protean disorders. After an accurate evaluation of different open or double-blind trials and cohort studies in this review, we analyze the actual medical tools suggested for treating granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, Henoch-Schönlein purpura, cryoglobulinemic vasculitis, anti-glomerular basement membrane disease and hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis.

Henoch Schonlein Purpura as a Cause of Renal Failure in an Adult

Henoch Schonlein purpura (HSP) is an immune mediated disease associated Immunoglobulin A (IgA) deposition within the affected organs. While the disease is commonly seen in the pediatric age group, it is rarely seen in adults. We report the case of a 93-year-old Caucasian lady who presented with nonthrombocytopenic purpuric rash and acute kidney injury after an episode of bronchitis. Rapid and progressive deterioration of renal function prompted a kidney biopsy, which showed findings consistent with IgA nephropathy confirming the diagnosis of HSP. The patient was treated with high dose intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral prednisone; however, her kidney disease progressed to end stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis. HSP is usually a self-limiting disease in children. However, adults are at an increased risk of severe renal involvement including end stage renal disease. Purpuric skin rash with renal involvement should raise suspicion for HSP. This is the oldest known patient with HSP.

Henoch-Schonlein Purpura in Children Hospitalized at a Tertiary Hospital during 2004-2015 in Korea: Epidemiology and Clinical Management

PURPOSE

To investigate the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, investigations and management, and prognosis of patients with Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 212 HSP patients under the age of 18 years who were admitted to Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital between 2004 and 2015.

RESULTS

The mean age of the HSP patients was 6.93 years, and the ratio of boys to girls was 1.23:1. HSP occurred most frequently in the winter (33.0%) and least frequently in the summer (11.3%). Palpable purpura spots were found in 208 patients (98.1%), and gastrointestinal (GI) and joint symptoms were observed in 159 (75.0%) and 148 (69.8%) patients, respectively. There were 57 patients (26.9%) with renal involvement and 10 patients (4.7%) with nephrotic syndrome. The incidence of renal involvement and nephrotic syndrome was significantly higher in patients with severe GI symptoms and in those over 7 years old. The majority of patients (88.7%) were treated with steroids. There was no significant difference in the incidence of renal involvement or nephrotic syndrome among patients receiving different doses of steroids.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the epidemiologic features of HSP in children were similar to those described in previous studies, but GI and joint symptoms manifested more frequently. It is essential to carefully monitor renal involvement and progression to chronic renal disease in patients ≥7 years old and in patients affected by severe GI symptoms. It can be assumed that there is no direct association between early doses of steroids and prognosis.

Urological Manifestations of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura: A Review

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is an immune-mediated systemic vasculitis generally found in children. The standard manifestations of HSP are palpable purpura, arthritis, abdominal pain, and renal complications. Although less common, there are significant urological manifestations associated with HSP. The primary objective of this review is to encourage better understanding and management of HSP by emphasizing the common and rare manifestations of HSP, how they are diagnosed, and the latest treatment options for mild to severe complications. Medline searches of HSP and its urological manifestations were conducted along with searches on current diagnostic and treatment methods. Urological manifestations of HSP involve the kidney, ureter, bladder, prostate, scrotum, testicle, and penis. Diagnosis and management of HSP are not always clear due to differential diagnosis and diversity of symptom presentation. Treatment for HSP is mainly supportive and includes use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief. In more severe cases, glucocorticoids, methylprednisolone, plasmapheresis, and peritoneal and hemodialysis are reported successful. It is important to note different symptoms of HSP in order to distinguish HSP from other diseases. Early diagnosis may prevent severe complications. Treatment options vary from conservative to invasive depending on the severity of the disease and time frame of diagnosis.

Efficacy of cyclosporine A for steroid-resistant severe Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis

Aggressive treatment is necessary for continuous high-range proteinuria in cases of pediatric Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN) as the long-term prognosis is sometimes poor. Cyclosporine (CyA) has immunosuppressive effects as well as a very selective inhibitory effect on T-helper cell function. Here we report two 7-year-old boys with steroid-resistant HSPN treated with CyA. After diagnosis of HSPN, we treated both patients with methylprednisolone and urokinase pulse therapy (MUT) combined with multiple drugs; however, high-range proteinuria persisted and CyA was added to the treatment regimen. The proteinuria subsequently decreased gradually and pathological findings at the second renal biopsy were improved. Furthermore, neither patient showed any adverse effects, such as hypertension, encephalopathy, or chronic nephrotoxicity, to the CyA treatment.In conclusion, these results suggest that CyA may be a safe and effective treatment for steroid-resistant severe HSPN.

Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis in children: incidence, pathogenesis and management

BACKGROUND

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is one of the most common vasculitides in children. It is manifested by skin purpura, arthritis, abdominal pain, renal involvement, etc. Typically, HSP is considered to be self-limiting, although renal involvement (HSP purpura nephritis, HSPN) is the principal cause of morbidity from this disease. For this reason, it is important to clarify the mechanism of onset and clinical manifestations of HSPN and to ascertain the most appropriate treatment for HSPN. In this article, we review the updated pathophysiology and treatment strategies for HSPN.

DATA SOURCES

We searched databases including PubMed, Elsevier and Wanfang for the following key words: Henoch-Schönlein purpura, nephritis, mechanism and treatment, and we selected those publications written in English that we judged to be relevant to the topic of this review.

RESULTS

Based on the data present in the literature, we reviewed the following topics: 1) the possible pathogenesis of HSPN: several studies suggest that immunoglobulin A immune complexes deposit in the mesangium and induce renal injury; 2) multiple-drug treatment for HSPN: although there have been few evidence-based treatment strategies for HSPN, several studies have suggested that immunosuppressive drugs and multiple drug combination therapy were effective in ameliorating proteinuria and histological severity.

CONCLUSIONS

HSPN is a severe disease of childhood. To better understand this disease, detailed investigations into the pathogenesis of HSPN and prospective randomized controlled treatment studies on children with severe HSPN are needed.

Efficacy of triptolide for children with moderately severe Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis presenting with nephrotic range proteinuria: a prospective and controlled study in China

Objective. To observe the clinical efficacy of the Chinese herb, Triptolide, in children with moderately severe Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN). Methods. From January 2007 to December 2011, 56 HSPN children manifested by nephrotic range proteinuria with normal kidney function and <50% crescents or sclerosing lesions on biopsy were hospitalized in the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine. They were divided into two groups: the treatment group (n = 42; Triptolide at a dosage of 1 mg/kg·d, combined with prednisone at a dosage of 2 mg/kg·d, within a course of medium-to-long-term therapy of 6 to 9 months) and the control group (n = 14; prednisone alone, with the same procedure). Results. Short-term remission was observed in 95% of patients from treatment group and in 72% of patients from control group, respectively. There was a significant difference between both groups (χ² = 6.222, P = 0.029) for short-term effects. Meanwhile, no significant difference, as proteinuria, hematuria, hypertension, and decreased eGFR, was observed between the two groups in long-term followup (χ² = 3.111, P = 0.097). The Kaplan-Meier plot analysis also revealed no significant difference (χ² = 2.633, P = 0.105). Conclusion. Triptolide is effective in relieving short-term symptoms for moderately severe HSPN children, though its long-term effects need to be observed further.

Henoch-Schönlein purpura in children

Henoch-Schönlein purpura is the most common systemic vasculitis of childhood. In the majority of children, the outcome of Henoch-Schönlein purpura is excellent with spontaneous resolution of symptoms and signs. However, a small subset of patients will develop long-term sequelae in the form of chronic kidney disease. While the clinical presentation and diagnosis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura is straightforward, treatment of Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis and long-term renal outcomes of more severely affected children are less certain. This review article gives a general overview of Henoch-Schönlein purpura with emphasis on recently published information, including the new classification of childhood vasculitis, insights into pathogenesis of Henoch-Schönlein purpura and a summary of various treatments of established Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis.

KDOQI US commentary on the 2012 KDIGO clinical practice guideline for glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis (GN) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients of all ages throughout the world. Because these disorders are relatively rare, it is difficult to perform randomized clinical trials to define optimal treatment for many of the specific glomerulopathies. In the absence of high-grade evidence to guide the care of glomerular diseases, in June 2012, KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) published an international clinical guideline for GN. The Work Group report represents an important review of the literature in this area and offers valid and useful guidelines for the most common situations that arise in the management of patients with glomerular disease. This commentary, developed by a panel of clinical experts convened by the National Kidney Foundation, attempts to put the GN guideline into the context of the US health care system. Overall, we support the vast majority of the recommendations and highlight select areas in which epidemiological factors and medical practice patterns in this country justify modifications and adjustments in order to achieve favorable outcomes. There remain large gaps in our knowledge of the best approaches to treat glomerular disease and we strongly endorse an expanded clinical research effort to improve the health and long-term outcomes of children and adults with GN.

Methylprednisolone pulse therapy and intravenous cyclophosphamide therapy combined with cocktail therapy in severe pediatric Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis patient

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a common self-limited vasculitis in children. The long-term prognosis depends on renal involvement. In severe Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN) patients, >50 % have crescent formation and nephrotic syndrome that are important predicted outcomes. Therefore, for such patients, an aggressive immunosuppressive therapy is needed to prevent the progression. However, there is no consensus for an appropriate therapeutic regimen for severe pediatric HSPN patients. In this paper, we have reported on a 6-year-old boy who presented with HSPN with nephrotic syndrome and severe histopathological abnormalities; he was diagnosed with International Study of Kidney Disease in Children (ISKDC) grade IVb. Despite treatment with methylprednisolone pulse therapy, followed by oral prednisolone and dipyridamole; the nephrotic syndrome persisted. Subsequently, intravenous cyclophosphamide therapy (IVCY) (500–1,000 mg m⁻² once a month for 7 months; total 6,000 mg m⁻²) was administered, followed by azathioprine and enarapril. Within 7 months of disease onset, complete remission was achieved. After 22 months of the initial renal biopsy, the second biopsy was performed to confirm treatment efficacy. Histopathological findings improved, and ISKDC grade IIIa was diagnosed. Even after 5 years of HSPN onset, complete remission and normal renal function is maintained. Although our evidence is restricted to single patient, we have shown that MPT and IVCY combined with cocktail therapy may be an effective treatment for severe pediatric HSPN.

Treatment of children with Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis with mycophenolate mofetil

BACKGROUND

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) can progress to Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN), and the most effective management remains unclear. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for treating pediatric patients with HSPN and nephrotic-range proteinuria.

METHODS

Twelve children, seven boys and five girls, mean age 8.33 (range 6-12) years at the time of HSPN diagnosis with nephrotic-range proteinuria, were treated with MMF. All patients failed steroid treatment, and mean proteinuria at the time of MMF initiation was 5.6 g/d. MMF dosage ranged from 20 to 25 mg/kg per day. Patients also received an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (cliazapril) at MMF initiation. Mean follow-up was 3.9 (range 2.3-5.5) years.

RESULTS

All patients responded to MMF at a mean of 2.5 (range 1-4 months). Among the 12 patients, MMF was administered for 10 months in five, 12 months in six, and 15 months in one. At last follow-up, all patients had negative proteinuria and normal renal function, and no relapses were noted. No serious adverse effects of MMF were noted in any patient.

CONCLUSION

MMF is useful for treating pediatric patients with HSPN and nephrotic-range proteinuria.

Cyclosporine A vs. methylprednisolone for Henoch-Schönlein nephritis: a randomized trial

Knowledge about how to treat severe Henoch-Schönlein nephritis (HSN) is scarce. The aim of our study is to compare cyclosporine A (CyA) and methylprednisolone pulses (MP) in the treatment of severe HSN. Out of 24 pediatric HSN patients with nephrotic-range proteinuria or crescentic HSN in kidney biopsy, seven were randomized to receive CyA for 12 months at an initial dose of 5 mg/kg and eight to receive 3 MP pulses of 30 mg/kg followed by prednisone for 4 months. The other nine patients received identical treatment without randomization. Kidney biopsies were performed at inclusion and after 2 years. The primary outcomes were the duration of proteinuria and hematuria, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and renal biopsy histology. All the 11 CyA-treated patients achieved resolution of nephrotic-range proteinuria within 3 months, while the MP-group response was slower, and in 6/13 was not achieved with the initial treatment. Additional immunosuppressive treatment was needed in none of the CyA-treated patients but in six patients treated with MP (difference in proportion 46%, p = 0.008). The 2-year control biopsies were similarly improved in both groups. After mean 6.1 years (2.2-10.4 years), 16 patients (eight CyA, eight MP) had no renal symptoms and six (three CyA, three MP) had persistent nephropathy but normal renal function. One MP-treated patient had reduced renal function and another had developed ESRD and received a renal transplant. CyA gave a 100% resolution of nephrotic-range proteinuria and a 100% renal survival rate without additional therapy after a mean follow-up of 6 years. Treatment of HSN with CyA is efficacious, safe and not inferior to MP.