A prospective randomized trial of plasma exchange as additive therapy in idiopathic crescentic glomerulonephritis. The Canadian Apheresis Study Group

EULAR recommendations for the management of ANCA-associated vasculitis: 2022 update

BACKGROUND

Since the publication of the EULAR recommendations for the management of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) in 2016, several randomised clinical trials have been published that have the potential to change clinical care and support the need for an update.

METHODS

Using EULAR standardised operating procedures, the EULAR task force undertook a systematic literature review and sought opinion from 20 experts from 16 countries. We modified existing recommendations and created new recommendations.

RESULTS

Four overarching principles and 17 recommendations were formulated. We recommend biopsies and ANCA testing to assist in establishing a diagnosis of AAV. For remission induction in life-threatening or organ-threatening AAV, we recommend a combination of high-dose glucocorticoids (GCs) in combination with either rituximab or cyclophosphamide. We recommend tapering of the GC dose to a target of 5 mg prednisolone equivalent/day within 4-5 months. Avacopan may be considered as part of a strategy to reduce exposure to GC in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) or microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). Plasma exchange may be considered in patients with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. For remission maintenance of GPA/MPA, we recommend rituximab. In patients with relapsing or refractory eosinophilic GPA, we recommend the use of mepolizumab. Azathioprine and methotrexate are alternatives to biologics for remission maintenance in AAV.

CONCLUSIONS

In the light of recent advancements, these recommendations provide updated guidance on AAV management. As substantial data gaps still exist, informed decision-making between physicians and patients remains of key relevance.

Crescentic Glomerulonephritis Due to Enterococcal Endocarditis

Glomerulonephritis following an enterococcal endocarditis is an extremely rare and life-threatening condition. We present the case of a 71-year-old patient with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis following enterococcal endocarditis after surgical replacement of the aortic valve. The combination of antibiotic therapy, corticosteroid therapy and haemodialysis led to an improvement in renal function; however, the severity of cardiac deterioration resulted in a fatal outcome.

Plasma exchange as an adjunctive therapy in anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis

INTRODUCTION

We summarize evidence for the role of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in the treatment of anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). TPE rapidly removes ANCA IgG, complement and coagulation factors important in the pathogenesis of AAV. TPE has been used in patients with rapidly deteriorating renal function to achieve early disease control, allowing time for immunosuppressive agents to prevent resynthesis of ANCA. The PEXIVAS trial challenged the utility of TPE in AAV, as it did not show benefit of adjunctive TPE on a combined end point of end stage kidney disease (ESKD) and death.

AREAS COVERED

We analyze data from PEXIVAS and other trials of TPE in AAV, an up-to-date meta-analysis, and recently published large cohort studies.

EXPERT OPINION

There remains a role for the use of TPE in AAV in certain groups of patients, in particular those with severe renal involvement (Cr >500 μmol/L or dialysis-dependent). It should be considered in patients with Cr >300 μmol/L and rapidly deteriorating function, or with life-threatening pulmonary hemorrhage. A separate indication is patients double positive for anti-GBM antibodies and ANCA. TPE may have the greatest benefit as part of steroid-sparing immunosuppressive treatment strategies.

Plasma exchange and glucocorticoids to delay death or end-stage renal disease in anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis: PEXIVAS non-inferiority factorial RCT

BACKGROUND

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis is a multisystem, autoimmune disease that causes organ failure and death. Physical removal of pathogenic autoantibodies by plasma exchange is recommended for severe presentations, along with high-dose glucocorticoids, but glucocorticoid toxicity contributes to morbidity and mortality. The lack of a robust evidence base to guide the use of plasma exchange and glucocorticoid dosing contributes to variation in practice and suboptimal outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine the clinical efficacy of plasma exchange in addition to immunosuppressive therapy and glucocorticoids with respect to death and end-stage renal disease in patients with severe anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis. We also aimed to determine whether or not a reduced-dose glucocorticoid regimen was non-inferior to a standard-dose regimen with respect to death and end-stage renal disease.

DESIGN

This was an international, multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial. Patients were randomised in a two-by-two factorial design to receive either adjunctive plasma exchange or no plasma exchange, and either a reduced or a standard glucocorticoid dosing regimen. All patients received immunosuppressive induction therapy with cyclophosphamide or rituximab.

SETTING

Ninety-five hospitals in Europe, North America, Australia/New Zealand and Japan participated.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were aged ≥ 16 years with a diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis or microscopic polyangiitis, and either proteinase 3 anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody or myeloperoxidase anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody positivity, and a glomerular filtration rate of < 50 ml/minute/1.73 m2 or diffuse alveolar haemorrhage attributable to active anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants received seven sessions of plasma exchange within 14 days or no plasma exchange. Oral glucocorticoids commenced with prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day and were reduced over different lengths of time to 5 mg/kg/day, such that cumulative oral glucocorticoid exposure in the first 6 months was 50% lower in patients allocated to the reduced-dose regimen than in those allocated to the standard-dose regimen. All patients received the same glucocorticoid dosing from 6 to 12 months. Subsequent dosing was at the discretion of the treating physician.

PRIMARY OUTCOME

The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality and end-stage renal disease at a common close-out when the last patient had completed 10 months in the trial.

RESULTS

The study recruited 704 patients from June 2010 to September 2016. Ninety-nine patients died and 138 developed end-stage renal disease, with the primary end point occurring in 209 out of 704 (29.7%) patients: 100 out of 352 (28%) in the plasma exchange group and 109 out of 352 (31%) in the no plasma exchange group (adjusted hazard ratio 0.86, 95% confidence interval 0.65 to 1.13; p = 0.3). In the per-protocol analysis for the non-inferiority glucocorticoid comparison, the primary end point occurred in 92 out of 330 (28%) patients in the reduced-dose group and 83 out of 325 (26%) patients in the standard-dose group (partial-adjusted risk difference 0.023, 95% confidence interval 0.034 to 0.08; p = 0.5), thus meeting our non-inferiority hypothesis. Serious infections in the first year occurred in 96 out of 353 (27%) patients in the reduced-dose group and in 116 out of 351 (33%) patients in the standard-dose group. The rate of serious infections at 1 year was lower in the reduced-dose group than in the standard-dose group (incidence rate ratio 0.69, 95% confidence interval 0.52 to 0.93; p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma exchange did not prolong the time to death and/or end-stage renal disease in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis with severe renal or pulmonary involvement. A reduced-dose glucocorticoid regimen was non-inferior to a standard-dose regimen and was associated with fewer serious infections.

FUTURE WORK

A meta-analysis examining the effects of plasma exchange on kidney outcomes in anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis is planned. A health-economic analysis of data collected in this study to examine the impact of both plasma exchange and reduced glucocorticoid dosing is planned to address the utility of plasma exchange for reducing early end-stage renal disease rates. Blood and tissue samples collected in the study will be examined to identify predictors of response to plasma exchange in anti-neutrophil cytoplasm in antibody-associated vasculitis. The benefits associated with reduced glucocorticoid dosing will inform future studies of newer therapies to permit further reduction in glucocorticoid exposure. Data from this study will contribute to updated management recommendations for anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis.

LIMITATIONS

This study had an open-label design which may have permitted observer bias; however, the nature of the end points, end-stage renal disease and death, would have minimised this risk. Despite being, to our knowledge, the largest ever trial in anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody-associated vasculitis, there was an insufficient sample size to assess clinically useful benefits on the separate components of the primary end-point: end-stage renal disease and death. Use of a fixed-dose plasma exchange regimen determined by consensus rather than data-driven dose ranging meant that some patients may have been underdosed, thus reducing the therapeutic impact. In particular, no biomarkers have been identified to help determine dosing in a particular patient, although this is one of the goals of the biomarker plan of this study.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial is registered as ISRCTN07757494, EudraCT 2009-013220-24 and Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00987389.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 26, No. 38. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

The effects of plasma exchange in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effects of plasma exchange on important outcomes in anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV).

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials investigating effects of plasma exchange in patients with AAV or pauci-immune rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and at least 12 months' follow-up.

INFORMATION SOURCES

Prior systematic reviews, updated by searching Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL to July 2020.

RISK OF BIAS

Reviewers independently identified studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.

SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS

Meta-analyses were conducted using random effects models to calculate risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Quality of evidence was summarised in accordance with GRADE methods. Outcomes were assessed after at least12 months of follow-up and included all-cause mortality, end stage kidney disease (ESKD), serious infections, disease relapse, serious adverse events, and quality of life.

RESULTS

Nine trials including 1060 participants met eligibility criteria. There were no important effects of plasma exchange on all-cause mortality (relative risk 0.90 (95% CI 0.64 to 1.27), moderate certainty). Data from seven trials including 999 participants that reported ESKD demonstrated that plasma exchange reduced the risk of ESKD at 12 months (relative risk 0.62 (0.39 to 0.98), moderate certainty) with no evidence of subgroup effects. Data from four trials including 908 participants showed that plasma exchange increased the risk of serious infections at 12 months (relative risk 1.27 (1.08 to 1.49), moderate certainty). The effects of plasma exchange on other outcomes were uncertain or considered unimportant to patients.

LIMITATIONS OF EVIDENCE

There is a relative sparsity of events, and treatment effect estimates are therefore imprecise. Subgroup effects at the participant level could not be evaluated.

INTERPRETATION

For the treatment of AAV, plasma exchange has no important effect on mortality, reduces the 12 month risk of ESKD, but increases the risk of serious infections.

FUNDING

No funding was received.

REGISTRATION

This is an update of a previously unregistered systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2014.

Role of therapeutic apheresis in the treatment of pediatric kidney diseases

Therapeutic apheresis utilizes apheresis procedures in the treatment of a variety of conditions including kidney disease. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is the most common modality employed with the rationale of rapid reduction of a pathogenic substance distributed primarily in the intravascular compartment; however other techniques which adsorb such pathogenic substances or alter the immune profile have been utilized in diseases affecting native and transplanted kidneys. This article discusses the modalities and technical details of therapeutic apheresis and summarizes its role in individual diseases affecting the kidney. Complications related to pediatric apheresis procedures and specifically related to apheresis in kidney disease are also discussed. Though therapeutic apheresis modalities are employed frequently in children with kidney disease, most experiences are extrapolated from adult studies. International and national registries need to be established to elucidate the role of apheresis modalities in children with kidney disease.

Analyses of registry data of patients with anti-GBM and antineutrophil cytoplasmatic antibody-associated (ANCA) vasculitis treated with or without therapeutic apheresis

Therapeutic apheresis (TA) as a treatment for antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) was questioned by the PEXIVAS although the MEPEX study favored TA. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of TA to improve renal function in patients consecutively included in the WAA-apheresis registry versus patients not treated with TA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Included were 192 patients that suffered from anti-glomerular basement membrane disease (anti-GBM, n = 28) and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis of MPO or PR3 origin. Of these 119 had performed TA and the other 73 had not performed TA for theses diagnoses (CTRL).

RESULTS

Elderly had an increased risk to die within 12 months (p = 0.002). All 28 anti-GBM had renal involvement, 21 dialysis dependent. At 3 month nine (36 %) did not need dialysis. Baseline data regarding renal function of AAV patients, subtype MPO and PR3, were worse in the TA groups than in CTRL. Recovery out of dialysis was better for the PR3-TA group compared with 1) the controls of MEPEX (RR 0.59, CI 0.43-0.80) and 2) the MPO-TA patients (RR 0.28, CI 0.12-0.68). The MPO-TA recovered similarly as the MEPEX-CTRL. Renal function improved most for TA-patients from baseline during the first 3 months (MPO-TA and PR3-TA) and stabilized thereafter and less for MPO-CTRL and PR3-CTRL.

CONCLUSION

PR3-TA patients seem to have best chances to get out of dialysis. PR3-TA and MPO-TA improved residual renal function better than CTRL. The present study recommends reconsiderations to use TA for AAV especially those with PR3-vasculitis with severe renal vasculitis.

ANCA-Associated Vasculitis: An Update

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) represents a group of small vessel vasculitides characterized by granulomatous and neutrophilic tissue inflammation, often associated with the production of antibodies that target neutrophil antigens. The two major antigens targeted by ANCAs are leukocyte proteinase 3 (PR3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO). AAV can be classified into 3 categories based on patterns of clinical involvement: namely, granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and eosinophilic GPA (EGPA). Clinically, AAV involves many organ systems including the lungs, kidneys, skin, and nervous system. The prognosis of AAV has improved dramatically due to advances in the understanding of its pathogenesis and treatment modalities. This review will highlight some of the recent updates in our understanding of the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and treatment options in patients with AAV focusing on kidney involvement.

Isotretinoin induced small vessel vasculitis: a life-threatening pulmonary-renal syndrome-a case report

Oral isotretinoin is a synthetic analog of vitamin - A, reserved for cases with severe resistant acne. We hereby report a case of drug-induced vasculitis (DV) from isotretinoin exposure leading to life-threatening pulmonary-renal syndrome requiring immunosuppression and plasmapheresis. A previously healthy 21-year-old female receiving oral isotretinoin presented with a 10-day history of worsening myalgias, arthralgias, and abdominal pain. Soon after admission she progressed to severe pulmonary-renal syndrome requiring intubation and renal replacement therapy. Urinalysis revealed >50 dysmorphic RBC with casts and renal ultrasound was unremarkable. Serological testing was only positive for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) at 1:80 with Anti- proteinase 3 (PR3) at 830 AU/mL and Anti-histone Ab at 2.9. As clinical presentation and serology are highly suggestive of ANCA associated DV, plasmapheresis, and rituximab were also initiated along with the continuation of steroids. She clinically improved but remained dialysis dependent and received a live donor renal transplant. The temporal relationship of symptom onset and drug initiation with no other possible identifiable etiologies-DV in our case was attributed to isotretinoin exposure. Though considered safe, oral Isotretinoin in rare instances can cause the life-threatening pulmonary-renal syndrome. Given its widespread use, it is prudent that prescribers should educate patients regarding the possible symptoms of vasculitis and to seek immediate medical attention when warranted. Physicians should also be vigilant of this complication and should act swiftly to avoid uneventful outcomes.

Efficacy of plasma exchange for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated systemic vasculitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

To assess through systematic review and meta-analysis whether plasma exchange (PE) is associated with prognosis in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) patients.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases from inception to 17 June 2020 was conducted. Ongoing or unpublished trials were also searched in ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization trials portal. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PE vs. non-PE in AAV patients (microscopic polyangiitis [MPA], granulomatosis with polyangiitis [GPA], or eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis [EGPA]) were included. The combined risk ratio (RR) was calculated by the random-effects model using the Mantel-Haenszel method. Heterogeneity was measured using the I² statistic. Primary outcomes were mortality, clinical remission (CR), and adverse events (AEs).

Results

Four RCTs comparing PE vs. no PE (N = 827) and 1 RCT comparing PE vs. pulse steroid treatment (N = 137) were included. All participants were MPA or GPA patients (no EGPA patients). PE was not associated with main primary outcomes compared with no PE (mortality RR 0.93 [95% confidence interval {CI} 0.70–1.24], I² = 0%; CR RR 1.02 [95% CI 0.91–1.15], I² = 0%; and AE RR 1.10 [95% CI 0.73–1.68], I² = 37%) or pulse steroid (mortality RR 0.99 [95% CI 0.71–1.37]; CR [the Birmingham Vasculitis Activity score] mean difference − 0.53 [95% CI − 1.40–0.34]; and AE RR 1.05 [95% CI 0.74–1.48]). Focusing on the early treatment phases, PE was associated with a reduction in end-stage renal disease incidence compared with both no PE (PE 1/43 vs. no PE 10/41; RR 0.14 [0.03–0.77] at 3 months) and pulse steroid (PE 11/70 vs. pulse steroid 23/67; RR 0.46 [0.24–0.86] at 3 months).

Conclusion

We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis targeting all AAV patients, including MPA, GPA, and EGPA. In AAV patients, performing PE was not associated with the risk of mortality, CR, and AE. No RCT exists evaluating the efficacy of PE for EGPA; hence, this is required in the future. The results may affect the development of guidelines for AAV and may indicate the direction of future clinical research on AAV.

Trial registration

UMIN R000045239, PROSPERO CRD42020182566.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-021-02415-z.

Efficacy of Rituximab and Plasma Exchange in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis with Severe Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

Treatment of patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) and severe renal involvement is not established. We describe outcomes in response to rituximab (RTX) versus cyclophosphamide (CYC) and plasma exchange (PLEX).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of MPO- or PR3-ANCA-positive patients with AAV (MPA and GPA) and severe kidney disease (eGFR <30 ml/min per 1.73 m²). Remission, relapse, ESKD and death after remission-induction with CYC or RTX, with or without the use of PLEX, were compared.

RESULTS

Of 467 patients with active renal involvement, 251 had severe kidney disease. Patients received CYC (n=161) or RTX (n=64) for remission-induction, and 51 were also treated with PLEX. Predictors for ESKD and/or death at 18 months were eGFR <15 ml/min per 1.73 m² at diagnosis (IRR 3.09 [95% CI 1.49 to 6.40], P=0.002), renal recovery (IRR 0.27 [95% CI 0.12 to 0.64], P=0.003) and renal remission at 6 months (IRR 0.40 [95% CI 0.18 to 0.90], P=0.027). RTX was comparable to CYC in remission-induction (BVAS/WG=0) at 6 months (IRR 1.37 [95% CI 0.91 to 2.08], P=0.132). Addition of PLEX showed no benefit on remission-induction at 6 months (IRR 0.73 [95% CI 0.44 to 1.22], P=0.230), the rate of ESKD and/or death at 18 months (IRR 1.05 [95% CI 0.51 to 2.18], P=0.891), progression to ESKD (IRR 1.06 [95% CI 0.50 to 2.25], P=0.887), and survival at 24 months (IRR 0.54 [95% CI 0.16 to 1.85], P=0.330).

CONCLUSIONS

The apparent benefits and risks of using CYC or RTX for the treatment of patients with AAV and severe kidney disease are balanced. The addition of PLEX to standard remission-induction therapy showed no benefit in our cohort. A randomized controlled trial is the only satisfactory means to evaluate efficacy of remission-induction treatments in AAV with severe renal involvement.

Interventions for renal vasculitis in adults

BACKGROUND

Renal vasculitis presents as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and comprises of a group of conditions characterised by acute kidney injury (AKI), haematuria and proteinuria. Treatment of these conditions involve the use of steroid and non-steroid agents in combination with plasma exchange. Although immunosuppression overall has been very successful in treatment of these conditions, many questions remain unanswered in terms of dose and duration of therapy, the use of plasma exchange and the role of new therapies. This 2019 publication is an update of a review first published in 2008 and updated in 2015.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of any intervention used for the treatment of renal vasculitis in adults.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 21 November 2019 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials investigating any intervention for the treatment of renal vasculitis in adults.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random effects model and results expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes or mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

Forty studies (3764 patients) were included. Studies conducted earlier tended to have a higher risk of bias due to poor (or poorly reported) study design, broad inclusion criteria, less well developed disease definitions and low patient numbers. Later studies tend to have improved in all areas of quality, aided by the development of large international study groups. Induction therapy: Plasma exchange as adjunctive therapy may reduce the need for dialysis at three (2 studies: RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.78; I² = 0%) and 12 months (6 studies: RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.72; I² = 0%) (low certainty evidence). Plasma exchange may make little or no difference to death, serum creatinine (SCr), sustained remission or to serious or the total number of adverse events. Plasma exchange may increase the number of serious infections (5 studies: RR 1.26, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.54; I² = 0%; low certainty evidence). Remission rates for pulse versus continuous cyclophosphamide (CPA) were equivalent but pulse treatment may increase the risk of relapse (4 studies: RR 1.79, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.87; I² = 0%) (low certainty evidence) compared with continuous cyclophosphamide. Pulse CPA may make little or no difference to death at final follow-up, or SCr at any time point. More patients required dialysis in the pulse CPA group. Leukopenia was less common with pulse treatment; however, nausea was more common. Rituximab compared to CPA probably makes little or no difference to death, remission, relapse, severe adverse events, serious infections, or severe adverse events. Kidney function and dialysis were not reported. A single study reported no difference in the number of deaths, need for dialysis, or adverse events between mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and CPA. Remission was reported to improve with MMF however more patients relapsed. A lower dose of steroids was probably as effective as high dose and may be safer, causing fewer infections; kidney function and relapse were not reported. There was little of no difference in death or remission between six and 12 pulses of CPA. There is low certainty evidence that there were less relapses with 12 pulses (2 studies: RR 1.57, 95% CI 0.96 to 2.56; I² = 0%), but more infections (2 studies: RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.72; I² = 45%). One study reported severe adverse events were less in patients receiving six compared to 12 pulses of CPA. Kidney function and dialysis were not reported. There is limited evidence from single studies about the effectiveness of intravenous immunoglobulin, avacopan, methotrexate, immunoadsorption, lymphocytapheresis, or etanercept. Maintenance therapy: Azathioprine (AZA) has equivalent efficacy as a maintenance agent to CPA with fewer episodes of leucopenia. MMF resulted in a higher relapse rate when tested against azathioprine in remission maintenance. Rituximab is an effective remission induction and maintenance agent. Oral co-trimoxazole did not reduce relapses in granulomatosis with polyangiitis. There were fewer relapses but more serious adverse events with leflunomide compared to methotrexate. There is limited evidence from single studies about the effectiveness of methotrexate versus CPA or AZA, cyclosporin versus CPA, extended versus standard AZA, and belimumab.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Plasma exchange was effective in patients with severe AKI secondary to vasculitis. Pulse cyclophosphamide may result in an increased risk of relapse when compared to continuous oral use but a reduced total dose. Whilst CPA is standard induction treatment, rituximab and MMF were also effective. AZA, methotrexate and leflunomide were effective as maintenance therapy. Further studies are required to more clearly delineate the appropriate place of newer agents within an evidence-based therapeutic strategy.

Plasma Exchange Is Highly Effective for Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis Patients With Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephritis Who Have Advanced to Dialysis Dependence: A Single-Center Case Series

Plasma exchange (PEX) can be an effective treatment in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis with severe renal damage; however, it is still controversial. Among cases of newly diagnosed AAV with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis at our department from 2008 onward, 11 patients who received PEX (seven cases for severe renal damage [R-PEX] and four cases for lung hemorrhage [L-PEX]) were retrospectively analyzed. All cases of R-PEX were dependent on hemodialysis at the beginning of PEX and all received seven sessions of PEX (50 mL/kg or 1.3 plasma volume per exchange) within 2 weeks. All cases became dialysis-independent within 8 weeks, with 3- and 12-month cumulative renal survival rates of 100% and 80%, respectively. All cases of L-PEX retained their renal function. In rapidly developing, newly dialysis-dependent antibody-associated vasculitis with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis patients with normal renal function before disease onset, standard PEX can be expected to induce sufficient renal recovery to establish dialysis independence.

Pulmonary-renal syndrome: diagnostic challenge

Vasculitis presents several diagnostic challenges. Herein, we present a clinical case of a 71- year old woman, observed in our emergency department due to asthenia, vomiting and persistent cough. The patient had a history of progressive renal failure and anaemia over the last years. On physical examinations, fine pulmonary crackles were detected and laboratory test showed haemoglobin 69 g/L, creatinine 4 mg/dL, potassium 6.3 mmol/L, positive antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA), with proteins and dimorphic erythrocytes in the urinary sediment. CT analysis of the thorax revealed patchy ground glass haziness, likely due to diffuse alveolar haemorrhage. Pulmonary-renal syndrome was assumed, and induction therapy was initiated. She was discharged after 33 days of hospitalisation. On the following months, ANCA titres remained undetectable, but minor recovery of renal function was observed, requiring haemodialysis. Indeed, the use of aggressive induction therapy at early stage dramatically improve prognosis, maintenance of disease remission may be difficult, as relapse is frequent.

Plasma Exchange or Immunoadsorption in Patients with Rapidly Progressive Crescentic Glomerulonephritis a Swedish Multi-Center Study

A therapeutic removal of antibodies may be achieved by immunoadsorption (IA) or by plasma exchange (PE). The aim of this prospective randomised study was to compare the efficacy of these different techniques with regard to treatment of patients with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPG) having at least 50% crescents. Forty-four patients with a RPG were included for treatment either by IA or PE (with albumin as substitution for removed plasma). All patients were additionally treated with immunosuppression. A median of 6 sessions of PEs were performed in 23 patients compared with 6 IAs in 21 patients. Goodpasture's syndrome (GP) was present in 6 patients (PE 3, IA 3). All of them started and ended in dialysis, two died. Among the remaining 38 patients (26 men, 12 women) 87% had antibodies to ANCA. Creatinine clearance for PE versus IA were at a median at start 17.1 and 19.8 ml/min, and at 6 months 49 and 49 ml/min, respectively. At 6 months 7 of 10 patients did not need dialysis (remaining: IA 0/5 and PE 2/5, n.s.). The extent of improvement did not differ between the groups. Three patients died during the observation period of 6 months (IA 2; PE 1, on HD). Although no difference was found between the IA or the PE group this study shows that the protocol used was associated with an improved renal function in most patients (except for Goodpasture's syndrome) whereas 70% of them could leave the dialysis program.

Therapeutic Apheresis in Immunologic Renal and Neurological Diseases

Since the mid 1970s, when membrane modules became available, plasma separation techniques have gained in importance especially in the past few years. The advantages of this method are a complete separation of the corpuscular components from the plasma and due to increased blood flow rate and higher efficacy. Systemic autoimmune diseases based on an immune pathogenesis produce autoantibodies and circulating immune complexes, which cause inflammation in the tissues of various organs. In most cases, these diseases have a poor prognosis without treatment. Therapeutic apheresis (TA) in combination with immunosuppressive therapies has led to a steady increase in survival rates over the last 40 years. The updated information on immunology and molecular biology of different immunologic diseases are discussed in relation to the rationale for apheresis therapy and its place in combination with other modern treatments. The different diseases can be treated by various apheresis methods such as therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) with substitution solution, or with online plasma or blood purification using adsorption columns, which contain biological or non-biological agents. Here, the authors provide an overview of the most important pathogenic aspects indicating that TA can be a supportive therapy in systemic autoimmune diseases such as renal and neurological disorders. For the immunological diseases that can be treated with TA, the guidelines of the German Working Group of Clinical Nephrology and of the Apheresis Committee of the American Society for Apheresis are cited.

Role of therapeutic plasmapheresis in ANCA-associated vasculitis

Plasma exchange, or plasmapheresis, is a treatment method that developed over a period of two decades and involves the removal and replacement of a patient's circulating plasma. The aim of treatment is to remove disease-associated molecules and therefore interrupt disease progression. This article summarizes the developmental history of this treatment and then looks in more detail at data on the use of plasma exchange in treating antineutrophil antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis. The eight randomized trials and the Cochrane Systematic Review on treating renal vasculitis are summarized to show that plasma exchange may be effective in this disease, specifically in reducing the development of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) by approximately 40%. The plasma exchange and glucocorticoid dosing in the treatment of anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibody associated vasculitis (PEXIVAS) study is a currently enrolling study aiming to answer some of the outstanding questions relating to the use of this treatment in ANCA-associated vasculitis.

Interventions for renal vasculitis in adults

BACKGROUND

Renal vasculitis presents as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis which comprises of a group of conditions characterised by acute kidney injury (AKI), haematuria and proteinuria. Treatment of these conditions comprises steroid and non-steroid agents in combination with plasma exchange. Although immunosuppression overall has been very successful in treatment of these conditions, many questions remain unanswered in terms of dose and duration of therapy, the use of plasma exchange and the role of new therapies. This an update of a review first published in 2008.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of any intervention used for the treatment of renal vasculitis in adults.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Specialised Register up to 27 July 2015 through contact with the Trials' Search Co-ordinator using search terms relevant to this review.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials investigating any intervention for the treatment of renal vasculitis in adults.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random effects model and results expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes or mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

Thirty one studies (2217 patients) were included. Studies conducted earlier tended to have a higher risk of bias due to poor (or poorly reported) study design, broad inclusion criteria, less well developed disease definitions and low patient numbers. Later studies tend to have improved in all areas of quality, aided by the development of large transnational study groups.Plasma exchange as adjunctive therapy significantly reduces the risk of end-stage kidney disease at three months (2 studies: RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.78) and 12 months (6 studies: RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.72). Four studies (300 patients) compared the use of pulse and continuous administration of cyclophosphamide. Remission rates were equivalent but pulse treatment causes an increased risk of relapse (4 studies: RR 1.79, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.87) compared with continuous cyclophosphamide. Azathioprine has equivalent efficacy as a maintenance agent to cyclophosphamide with fewer episodes of leucopenia. Mycophenolate mofetil may be equivalent to cyclophosphamide as an induction agent but resulted in a higher relapse rate when tested against azathioprine in remission maintenance. Rituximab is an effective remission induction agent. Methotrexate or leflunomide are potential choices in remission maintenance therapy. Oral co-trimoxazole did not reduce relapses significantly in granulomatosis with polyangiitis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Plasma exchange was effective in patients with severe AKI secondary to vasculitis. Pulse cyclophosphamide results in an increased risk of relapse when compared to continuous oral use but a reduced total dose. Whilst cyclophosphamide is standard induction treatment, rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil were also effective. Azathioprine, methotrexate and leflunomide were effective as maintenance therapy. Further studies are required to more clearly delineate the appropriate place of newer agents within an evidence-based therapeutic strategy.

Plasma exchange for kidney disease: what is the best evidence?

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been used as adjunctive therapy for various kidney diseases dating back to the 1970s. In many cases, support for TPE was on mechanistic grounds given the potential to remove unwanted large molecular-weight substances such as autoantibodies, immune complexes, myeloma light chains, and cryoglobulins. More recently, growing evidence from randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and prospective studies has provided insights into more rational use of this therapy. This report describes the role of TPE for the 6 most common kidney indications in the 2013 Canadian Apheresis Group (CAG) registry and the evidence that underpins current recommendations and practice. These kidney indications include thrombotic microangiopathy, antiglomerular basement membrane disease, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis, cryoglobulinemia, recurrence of focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis in the kidney allograft, and kidney transplantation.

Therapeutic plasma exchange for the treatment of pediatric renal diseases in 2013

Therapeutic plasma exchange is an extracorporeal treatment modality that removes systemic circulating pathologic factors or replaces absent plasma components and plays a role in many nephrologic conditions. It presents a number of technical challenges in the pediatric population but has become an increasingly common practice in pediatric nephrology over the past several decades. While prospective evidence is often lacking, our increased understanding of the molecular pathogenesis underlying many pediatric renal diseases provides sound reasoning for the use of plasma exchange in treating these conditions. This review will present the currently accepted indications for plasma exchange in children, the technical aspects of the procedure and its potential complications.

Activity and damage in granulomatosis with polyangiitis

AIM

To retrospectively analyze disease activity and damage-associated factors in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in Turkey.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis was carried out in 21 GPA patients. Assessments for activity were performed with the Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score for GPA (BVAS/GPA) and for permanent organ damage by the Vasculitis Damage Index (VDI).

RESULTS

Lower BVAS/GPA (P = 0.002), absence of renal involvement (P = 0.003) and higher creatinine clearence (P = 0.000) at diagnosis increased the likelihood of achieving remission at 6 weeks. Relapses were associated with high creatinine clearence (P = 0.021), low BVAS/GPA (P = 0.014), absence of renal involvement (P = 0.036) and proteinuria (< 0.5/24 h) (P = 0.013) at diagnosis, whereas achieving remission at 6 weeks (P = 0.012) was associated with absence of co-trimoxazole usage (P = 0.038) and less severe clinical subgroup (P = 0.034). Lower cumulative first 6 months of cyclophosphamide and methylprednisolone were associated with earlier (≤ 12 months) relapses (P = 0.048 and P = 0.083, respectively). Baseline damage (VDI ≥ 1) was associated with a delay in diagnosis (P = 0.032), presentation with milder clinical subgroups (P = 0.052) and low serum creatinine (P = 0.013). The increase in VDI in the first 12 months (early damage) constituted most (91%) of the total damage measured at the end of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite high early remission rates, relapse represents a major problem in localized GPA in our study. Baseline damage was associated with longer diagnostic delay and lower baseline serum creatinine. The initial phase of the disease seems to be the most crucial period for mortality and accumulated damage.

Therapeutic apheresis for renal disorders

This review summarizes the clinical evidence and practical details for the use of plasmapheresis and other apheresis modalities for each indication in nephrology. Updated information on the molecular biology and immunology of each renal disease is discussed in relation to the rationale for apheresis therapy and its place amid other available treatments. Autoantibody-mediated diseases, such as anti-GBM (anti-glomerular basement membrane) glomerulonephritis (GN), ANCA (antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody)-related GN and the antibody-mediated type of TTP (thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura), and alloantibody-mediated diseases such as kidney transplant sensitization and humoral rejection, can be treated by various plasmapheresis methods. These include standard plasmapheresis with a replacement volume, or plasmapheresis with online plasma purification using adsorption columns or secondary filtration. However, it should be noted that the pathogenic molecules implicated in FSGS (focal segmental glomerulosclerosis), myeloma cast nephropathy, and perhaps other diseases are too small to be removed by most online purification methods. A great majority of controlled trials and series on which evidence-based treatment recommendations are made were performed using centrifugal plasmapheresis; it is presumed that membrane-separation plasmapheresis is equally efficacious. For some rarer diseases, such as MPGN (membranoproliferative GN) type 2 with factor H abnormalities or C3Nef (C3 nephritic factor) autoantibodies, there are only a few case reports, but enough scientific understanding to warrant a trial of plasmapheresis in severe cases. Photopheresis, which is effective for cell-mediated rejection in heart and lung transplantation, has not yet found a place in the routine treatment of kidney transplant rejection.

The 2010 nephrology quiz and questionnaire: part 2

Presentation of the Nephrology Quiz and Questionnaire (NQQ) has become an annual "tradition" at the meetings of the American Society of Nephrology. It is a very popular session judged by consistently large attendance. Members of the audience test their knowledge and judgment on a series of case-oriented questions prepared and discussed by experts. They can also compare their answers in real time, using audience response devices, to those of program directors of nephrology training programs in the United States, acquired through an Internet-based questionnaire. As in the past, the topics covered were transplantation, fluid and electrolyte disorders, end-stage renal disease and dialysis, and glomerular disorders. Two challenging cases representing each of these categories along with single best answer questions were prepared by a panel of experts (Drs. Hricik, Palmer, Bargman, and Fervenza, respectively). The "correct" and "incorrect" answers then were briefly discussed, after the audience responses and the results of the questionnaire were displayed. The 2010 version of the NQQ was exceptionally challenging, and the audience, for the first time, gained a better overall correct answer score than the program directors, but the margin was small. Last month we presented the transplantation and fluid and the electrolyte cases; in this issue we present the remaining end-stage renal disease and dialysis and the glomerular disorder cases. These articles try to recapitulate the session and reproduce its educational value for a larger audience--that of the readers of the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Have fun.

Role of plasmapheresis performed in hemodialysis units for the treatment of anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody-associated systemic vasculitides

Anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) positivity is seen in some systemic necrotizing vasculitides. Wegener's granulomatosis and microscopic polyangiitis are among the ANCA-associated systemic vasculitides (AASV) and mortality is very high when renal failure occurs together with alveolar hemorrhage. The role of plasmapheresis in the treatment of these diseases has been studied retrospectively. Twelve patients with AASV who had plasmapheresis together with immunosuppressive medications have been involved. Primary diseases, immunosuppressive protocols, the number of plasmapheresis sessions, the amount of plasma that has been exchanged, urea and creatinine levels before and after treatment, pulmonary findings, the need for hemodialysis, and the outcome of patients were recorded. The mean age of patients was 52.9 ± 18.2 years. Wegener's granulomatosis was diagnosed in seven (58.3%) and microscopic polyangiitis in five (41.7%) patients. All patients had pulse cyclophosphamide and methylprednisolone followed by maintenance doses and plasmapheresis. Seven patients had hemodialysis at the beginning, and hemodialysis needed to be continued in three patients. Partial and complete remission was seen in 6 (50%) and 3 (25%) patients, respectively, and pulmonary findings regressed in all patients. End-stage renal disease develops generally in AASV due to rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis causing severe irreversible glomerular damage. The mortality rate rises to 50% in cases of renal failure with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage; therefore, pulse immunosuppressive treatment with plasmapheresis may be life-saving, as shown in our study.

Plasma exchange for renal vasculitis and idiopathic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Plasma exchange may be effective adjunctive treatment for renal vasculitis. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of plasma exchange for renal vasculitis.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis of articles identified from electronic databases, bibliographies, and studies identified by experts. Data were abstracted in parallel by 2 reviewers.

SETTING & POPULATION

Adults with idiopathic renal vasculitis or rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.

SELECTION CRITERIA FOR STUDIES

Randomized controlled trials that compared standard care with standard care plus adjuvant plasma exchange in adult patients with either renal vasculitis or idiopathic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.

INTERVENTION

Adjuvant plasma exchange.

OUTCOME

Composite of end-stage renal disease or death.

RESULTS

We identified 9 trials including 387 patients. In a fixed-effects model, the pooled RR for end-stage renal disease or death was 0.80 for patients treated with adjunctive plasma exchange compared with standard care alone (95% CI, 0.65-0.99; P = 0.04). No significant heterogeneity was detected (P = 0.5; I(2) = 0%). The effect of plasma exchange did not differ significantly across the range of baseline serum creatinine values (P = 0.7) or number of plasma exchange treatments (P = 0.8). The RR for end-stage renal disease was 0.64 (95% CI, 0.47-0.88; P = 0.006), whereas the RR for death alone was 1.01 (95% CI, 0.71-1.4; P = 0.9).

LIMITATIONS

Although the primary result was statistically significant, there is insufficient statistical information to reliably determine whether plasma exchange decreases the composite of end-stage renal disease or death.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma exchange may decrease the composite end point of end-stage renal disease or death in patients with renal vasculitis. Additional trials are required given the limited data available.

Interventions for renal vasculitis in adults. A systematic review

Background

Renal vasculitis presents as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and comprises of a group of conditions characterised by acute kidney failure, haematuria and proteinuria. Treatment of these conditions involves the use of steroid and non-steroid agents with or without adjunctive plasma exchange. Although immunosuppression has been successful, many questions remain unanswered in terms of dose and duration of therapy, the use of plasma exchange and the role of new therapies. This systematic review was conducted to determine the benefits and harms of any intervention for the treatment of renal vasculitis in adults.

Methods

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane Renal Group Specialised Register, MEDLINE and EMBASE to June 2009. Randomised controlled trials investigating any intervention for the treatment of adults were included. Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random effects model and results expressed as risk ratio with 95% confidence intervals for dichotomous outcomes or mean difference for continuous outcomes.

Results

Twenty two studies (1674 patients) were included. Plasma exchange as adjunctive therapy significantly reduces the risk of end-stage kidney disease at 12 months (five studies: RR 0.47, CI 0.30 to 0.75). Four studies compared the use of pulse and continuous administration of cyclophosphamide. Remission rates were equivalent but pulse treatment causes an increased risk of relapse (4 studies: RR 1.79, CI 1.11 to 2.87) compared with continuous cyclophosphamide. Azathioprine has equivalent efficacy as a maintenance agent to cyclophosphamide with fewer episodes of leukopenia. Mycophenolate mofetil may be equivalent to cyclophosphamide as an induction agent but resulted in a higher relapse rate when tested against Azathioprine in remission maintenance. Rituximab is an effective remission induction agent. Methotrexate or Leflunomide are potential choices in remission maintenance therapy. Oral co-trimoxazole did not reduce relapses significantly in Wegener's granulomatosis.

Conclusions

Plasma exchange is effective in patients with severe ARF secondary to vasculitis. Pulse cyclophosphamide results in an increased risk of relapse when compared to continuous oral use but a reduced total dose. Whilst cyclophosphamide is standard induction treatment, rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil are also effective. Azathioprine, methotrexate and leflunomide are effective as maintenance therapy. Further studies are required to more clearly delineate the appropriate place of newer agents within an evidence-based therapeutic strategy.

Management of acute renal failure in the elderly patient: a clinician's guide

Numerous anatomical and functional changes occurring in the aging kidney lead to reduced glomerular filtration rate, lower renal blood flow and impaired renal autoregulation. The elderly are especially vulnerable to the development of renal dysfunction and in this population acute renal failure (ARF) is a common problem. ARF is often iatrogenic and multifactorial; common iatrogenic combinations include pre-existing renal dysfunction and exposure to nephrotoxins such as radiocontrast agents or aminoglycosides, use of NSAIDs in patients with congestive cardiac failure and use of ACE inhibitors and diuretics in patients with underlying atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis. The aetiology of ARF is classically grouped into three categories: prerenal, intrinsic and postrenal. Prerenal ARF is the second most common cause of ARF in the elderly, accounting for nearly one-third of all hospitalized cases. Common causes can be grouped into true volume depletion (e.g. decreased fluid intake), decreased effective blood volume (e.g. systemic vasodilation) and haemodynamic (e.g. renal artery stenosis, NSAID use). Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is the most common cause of intrinsic ARF and is responsible for over 50% of ARF in hospitalized patients, and up to 76% of cases in patients in intensive care units. ATN usually occurs after an acute ischaemic or toxic event. The pathogenesis of ATN involves an interplay of processes that include endothelial injury, microvascular flow disruption, tubular hypoxia, dysfunction and apoptosis, tubular obstruction and trans-tubular back-leak. Vasculitis causing ARF should not be missed as this condition is potentially life threatening. The likelihood of a postrenal cause for ARF increases with age. Benign prostatic hypertrophy, prostatic carcinoma and pelvic malignancies are all important causes. Early identification of ARF secondary to obstruction with renal imaging is essential, and complete or partial renal recovery usually ensues following relief of the obstruction.A comprehensive medical and drug history and physical examination are all invaluable. Particular attention should be paid to the fluid status of the patient (skin turgor, jugular venous pressure, lying and standing blood pressure, urine output). Urinalysis should be performed to detect evidence of proteinuria and haematuria, which will aid diagnosis. Fractional excretion of sodium and urine osmolality may be measured but the widespread use of diuretics in the elderly gives rise to unreliable results. Renal imaging, usually ultrasound scanning, is routinely performed for assessment of renal size and to exclude urinary obstruction. In some cases, renal biopsy is necessary to provide specific diagnostic information. The general principles of managing ARF include treatment of life-threatening features such as shock, respiratory failure, hyperkalaemia, pulmonary oedema, metabolic acidosis and sepsis; stopping and avoiding administration of nephrotoxins; optimization of haemodynamic and fluid status; adjustment of drug dosage appropriate to glomerular filtration rate; early nutritional support; and early referral to nephrologists for diagnosis of ARF cause, timely initiation of dialysis and initiation of specific treatment. The treatment of prerenal and ATN ARF is largely supportive with little evidence of benefit from current pharmacological therapies. Despite advances in critical care medicine and renal replacement therapy, the mortality of ARF has not changed significantly over the last 40 years, with current mortality rates being up to 75%.

Interventions for renal vasculitis in adults

BACKGROUND

Renal vasculitis presents as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) which comprises of a group of conditions characterised by acute kidney failure (AKF), haematuria and proteinuria. Treatment of these conditions comprises steroid and non-steroid agents in combination with plasma exchange in several situations. Although immunosuppression overall has been very successful in treatment of these conditions, many questions remain unanswered in terms of dose and duration of therapy and the use of plasma exchange.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the benefits and harms of any intervention for the treatment of renal vasculitis in adults.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), the Cochrane Renal Group Specialised Register, MEDLINE and EMBASE without language restriction, reference lists of articles and abstracts from conference proceedings.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials investigating any intervention for the treatment of in adults.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random effects model and results expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals for dichotomous outcomes or mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

Thirteen studies (702 patients) were included. Plasma exchange as adjunctive therapy significantly reduces the risk of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) at three months (one study: RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.84) and 12 months (five studies: RR 0.47, CI 0.24 to 0.86). Three studies compared the use of pulse and continuous administration of cyclophosphamide (CPA). Overall analysis showed a significant increase in remission with pulse CPA (2 studies: RR 1.17; 95%CI 1.02-1.35) and fewer relapses with continuous CPA. A single study addressed the use of azathioprine (AZA) after three months of CPA therapy, showing no difference in outcome except for significantly less leukopenia in patients on AZA. One study into the use of antibiotics to prevent relapse in Wegener's granulomatosis failed to show a significant effect.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Plasma exchange is effective in patients with severe ARF secondary to vasculitis. On current data, the use of pulse CPA results in an increased risk of relapse when compared to continuous use but a reduced total dose. The use of cotrimoxazole is likely to be beneficial to prevent relapse of vasculitis. AZA is effective as maintenance therapy once remission has been achieved.