1
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Zhang J, Zhao H, Li X, Qian R, Gao P, Lu S, Ma Z. Efficacy of low-dose rituximab in minimal change disease and prevention of relapse. BMC Nephrol 2023; 24:112. [PMID: 37101300 PMCID: PMC10134665 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-023-03092-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minimal change disease (MCD) is a major cause of nephrotic syndrome (NS) in children and a minority of adults. The higher tendency to relapse put patients at risk for prolonged exposure to steroids and other immunosuppressive agents. B cell depletion with rituximab (RTX) may be beneficial to the treatment and prevention of frequently relapsing MCD. Therefore, this study aimed to verify the therapeutic/preventive effects of low-dose RTX on the relapse in adult with MCD. METHODS A total of 33 adult patients were selected for the study, including 22 patients with relapsing MCD in relapse treatment group who were treated with low-dose RTX (200 mg per week × 4 following by 200 mg every 6 months) and 11 patients in relapse prevention group with complete remission (CR) after steroid therapy were treated with RTX (200 mg ×1 every 6 months) for preventing the relapse of MCD. RESULTS Of the 22 patients with MCD in relapse treatment group, there were 21 cases (95.45%) of remission [2 (9.09%) partial remission (PR), 19 (86.36%) CR], 1 (4.56%) no remission (NR) and 20 (90.90%) relapse-free. The Median duration of sustained remission was 16.3 months (3, 23.5 months, inter quartile range (IQR)). 11 patients in the relapse prevention group during a follow-up of 12 months (9-31 months) had no relapse. The average dose of prednisone in two groups after RTX treatment was significantly lower than before treatment. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggested low-dose RTX can significantly reduce relapse rate and steroid dose in adults with MCD with fewer side effects. Low-dose RTX regimens may be beneficial for the treatment of relapsing MCD in adults and may be the preferred regimen for patients at high risk for the development of adverse events from corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Division of nephrology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730001, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Division of nephrology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730001, China
| | - Xiaoli Li
- Division of nephrology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730001, China
| | - Rui Qian
- Division of nephrology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730001, China
| | - Peijuan Gao
- Division of nephrology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730001, China
| | - Shouyan Lu
- Division of nephrology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730001, China
| | - Zhigang Ma
- Department of nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medcine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Longgang District People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518172, China.
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2
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Trautmann A, Boyer O, Hodson E, Bagga A, Gipson DS, Samuel S, Wetzels J, Alhasan K, Banerjee S, Bhimma R, Bonilla-Felix M, Cano F, Christian M, Hahn D, Kang HG, Nakanishi K, Safouh H, Trachtman H, Xu H, Cook W, Vivarelli M, Haffner D. IPNA clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and management of children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2023; 38:877-919. [PMID: 36269406 PMCID: PMC9589698 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-022-05739-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is the most frequent pediatric glomerular disease, affecting from 1.15 to 16.9 per 100,000 children per year globally. It is characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and/or concomitant edema. Approximately 85-90% of patients attain complete remission of proteinuria within 4-6 weeks of treatment with glucocorticoids, and therefore, have steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS). Among those patients who are steroid sensitive, 70-80% will have at least one relapse during follow-up, and up to 50% of these patients will experience frequent relapses or become dependent on glucocorticoids to maintain remission. The dose and duration of steroid treatment to prolong time between relapses remains a subject of much debate, and patients continue to experience a high prevalence of steroid-related morbidity. Various steroid-sparing immunosuppressive drugs have been used in clinical practice; however, there is marked practice variation in the selection of these drugs and timing of their introduction during the course of the disease. Therefore, international evidence-based clinical practice recommendations (CPRs) are needed to guide clinical practice and reduce practice variation. The International Pediatric Nephrology Association (IPNA) convened a team of experts including pediatric nephrologists, an adult nephrologist, and a patient representative to develop comprehensive CPRs on the diagnosis and management of SSNS in children. After performing a systematic literature review on 12 clinically relevant PICO (Patient or Population covered, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) questions, recommendations were formulated and formally graded at several virtual consensus meetings. New definitions for treatment outcomes to help guide change of therapy and recommendations for important research questions are given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Trautmann
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Olivia Boyer
- grid.50550.350000 0001 2175 4109Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Reference Center for Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children and Adults, Imagine Institute, Paris University, Necker Children’s Hospital, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Elisabeth Hodson
- grid.413973.b0000 0000 9690 854XCochrane Kidney and Transplant, Centre for Kidney Research, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Arvind Bagga
- grid.413618.90000 0004 1767 6103Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Debbie S. Gipson
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Susan Samuel
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Section of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Jack Wetzels
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Nephrology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Khalid Alhasan
- grid.56302.320000 0004 1773 5396Pediatric Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sushmita Banerjee
- grid.414710.70000 0004 1801 0469Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Institute of Child Health, Kolkata, India
| | - Rajendra Bhimma
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Melvin Bonilla-Felix
- grid.267034.40000 0001 0153 191XDepartment of Pediatrics, University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Francisco Cano
- grid.443909.30000 0004 0385 4466Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Luis Calvo Mackenna Children’s Hospital, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Martin Christian
- Children’s Kidney Unit, Nottingham Children’s Hospital, Nottingham, UK
| | - Deirdre Hahn
- grid.413973.b0000 0000 9690 854XDivision of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Paediatrics, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hee Gyung Kang
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Children’s Hospital & Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Koichi Nakanishi
- grid.267625.20000 0001 0685 5104Department of Child Health and Welfare (Pediatrics), Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Hesham Safouh
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Howard Trachtman
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Hong Xu
- grid.411333.70000 0004 0407 2968Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wendy Cook
- Nephrotic Syndrome Trust (NeST), Somerset, UK
| | - Marina Vivarelli
- grid.414125.70000 0001 0727 6809Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Dieter Haffner
- Department of Pediatric Kidney, Liver and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School Children's Hospital, Hannover and Center for Rare Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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Safdar OY, Basunbul LI, Alhazmi LS, Almughamisi SA, Habib LA, Basaeed AJ, Kalaktawi NM, Alharithi ET, Aljaaly HA, Alzahrani WA. Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Side Effect of Rituximab Administration in Steroid-Dependent Nephrotic Syndrome. Int Med Case Rep J 2022; 15:587-592. [PMID: 36281444 PMCID: PMC9587699 DOI: 10.2147/imcrj.s347389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS) is a common type of childhood nephrotic syndrome. Remission following steroid therapy is achieved in 80-90% of the patients, while the remainder show steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Rituximab is an anti-CD20 chimeric monoclonal antibody with proven therapeutic effects in several diseases and has been used with great success in the treatment of NS since its discovery. We report a case of a 4-year-old girl diagnosed with SDNS at the age of 3. As treatment with steroids, enalapril, and mycophenolate failed to produce complete remission, rituximab was initiated, and remission was successfully achieved after administration of the first dose. Due to this response, rituximab therapy was continued; however, a day after being admitted to the nephrology ward for the second dose, she started to develop a high fever, which reached up to 40°C. In addition, she also displayed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and an ulcerated wound on her left cheek. The patient became drowsy with reactive pupils, cold peripheries, and weak peripheral pulses. The capillary refill time was prolonged to 3-4 seconds and it was decided to withhold the second dose of rituximab. The patient was shifted to the PICU as a case of septic shock secondary to facial cellulitis and started on inotropes (epinephrine and norepinephrine), meropenem, vancomycin, and hydrocortisone 15 mg. Thereafter, surgical debridement of the wound was carried out. The patient remained in remission with regard to nephrotic syndrome and was discharged in a healthy condition. In conclusion, rituximab used in conjunction with steroids and other immunosuppressants may increase the risk of serious infections like necrotizing fasciitis (NF). Further studies are needed to explore the relationship between rituximab and NF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama Yousif Safdar
- Pediatric Nephrology Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lama Islem Basunbul
- Pediatric Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Laura Ahmed Habib
- Pediatric Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Nada M Kalaktawi
- Pediatric Nephrology Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Hataan A Aljaaly
- Plastic Surgery Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Walaa A Alzahrani
- Pediatric Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,Correspondence: Walaa A Alzahrani, Pediatric Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Tel +966 546239898, Email
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4
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Zotta F, Vivarelli M, Emma F. Update on the treatment of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2022; 37:303-314. [PMID: 33665752 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-021-04983-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) is a rare condition that develops primarily in preadolescent children after the age of 1 year. Since the 1950s, oral corticosteroids have been the mainstay of treatment of all children presenting with nephrotic syndrome, with most patients responding within 4 weeks to an oral course of prednisone (PDN). However, corticosteroids have important side effects and 60-80 % of patients relapse, developing frequently relapsing or steroid-dependent forms. For these reasons, many patients require second-line steroid-sparing immunosuppressive medications that have considerably improved relapse-free survival, while avoiding many PDN-related toxicities. Since most patients will eventually heal from their disease with a normal kidney function, the morbidity of SSNS is primarily related to side effects of drugs that are used to maintain prolonged remission. Therefore, treatment is essentially based on balancing the use of different drugs to achieve permanent remission with the lowest cumulative number of side effects. Treatment choice is based on the severity of SSNS, on patient age, and on drug tolerability. This review provides an update of currently available therapeutic strategies for SSNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Zotta
- Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Division of Nephrology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital - IRCCS, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Vivarelli
- Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Division of Nephrology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital - IRCCS, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Emma
- Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Division of Nephrology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital - IRCCS, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, 00165, Rome, Italy.
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5
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Lu J, Xu Z, Xu W, Gong L, Xu M, Tang W, Jiang W, Xie F, Ding L, Qian X. Efficacy and safety of tacrolimus versus corticosteroid as initial monotherapy in adult-onset minimal change disease: a meta-analysis. Int Urol Nephrol 2022; 54:2205-2213. [PMID: 35102517 PMCID: PMC9372126 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-022-03122-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective The objective of this meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus (TAC) monotherapy versus corticosteroid as initial monotherapy in adult-onset minimal change disease (MCD) patients. Methods Databases including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang database were searched from the inception to March 20, 2021. Eligible studies comparing TAC monotherapy and corticosteroid as initial monotherapy for adult-onset MCD patients were included. Data were analyzed using Review Manager Version 5.3. Results Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 196 patients were included in the meta-analysis. For initial monotherapy for adult-onset MCD, TAC and corticosteroid had similar complete remission (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.47–2.41, P = 0.89), total remission (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.39–4.35, P = 0.67), relapse rate (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.28–1.42, P = 0.26). Main drug-related adverse effects of two therapeutic regimens had no difference concerning infection (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.23–1.27, P = 0.15), glucose intolerance (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.16–1.84, P = 0.33) and acute renal failure (OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.36–7.31, P = 0.71). Conclusion TAC monotherapy is comparable with corticosteroid monotherapy in initial therapy of MCD. To further confirm the conclusion, more large multicenter RCTs are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingkui Lu
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhongxiu Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China. .,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Lifeng Gong
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Weigang Tang
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Fengyan Xie
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Liping Ding
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaoli Qian
- Department of Nephrology, Wujin Hospital Affiliated With Jiangsu University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Nephrology, The Wujin Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Changzhou City, 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
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6
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Efficacy of rituximab versus tacrolimus in difficult-to-treat steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome: an open-label pilot randomized controlled trial. Pediatr Nephrol 2022; 37:3117-3126. [PMID: 35286456 PMCID: PMC8919684 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-022-05475-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rituximab and tacrolimus are therapies reserved for patients with frequently relapsing or steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome who have failed conventional steroid-sparing agents. Given their toxicities, demonstrating non-inferiority of rituximab to tacrolimus may enable choice between these medications. METHODS This investigator-initiated, single-center, open-label, pilot randomized controlled trial examined the non-inferiority of two doses of intravenous (IV) rituximab given one-week apart to oral therapy with tacrolimus (1:1 allocation), in maintaining sustained remission over 12 months follow-up, in patients with difficult-to-treat steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome, defined as frequently relapsing or steroid-dependent disease that had failed ≥ 2 steroid-sparing strategies. Secondary outcomes included frequency of relapses, proportion with frequent relapses, time to relapse and frequent relapses, and adverse events (CTRI/2018/11/016342). RESULTS Baseline characteristics were comparable for 41 patients randomized to receive rituximab (n = 21) or tacrolimus (n = 20). While 55% of patients in each limb were in sustained remission at 1 year, non-inferiority of rituximab to tacrolimus was not demonstrated (mean difference 0%; 95% CI - 30.8%, 30.8%; non-inferiority limit - 20%; P = 0.50). Frequent relapses were more common in patients administered rituximab compared to tacrolimus (risk difference 30%, 95% CI 7.0, 53.0, P = 0.023). Both groups showed similar reductions in relapse rates and prednisolone use. Common adverse events were infusion-related with rituximab and gastrointestinal symptoms with tacrolimus. CONCLUSIONS Therapy with rituximab was not shown to be non-inferior to 12-months treatment with tacrolimus in maintaining remission in patients with difficult-to-treat steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Frequent relapses were more common with rituximab. While effective, both agents require close monitoring for adverse events. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
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Ehren R, Benz MR, Brinkkötter PT, Dötsch J, Eberl WR, Gellermann J, Hoyer PF, Jordans I, Kamrath C, Kemper MJ, Latta K, Müller D, Oh J, Tönshoff B, Weber S, Weber LT. Pediatric idiopathic steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome: diagnosis and therapy -short version of the updated German best practice guideline (S2e) - AWMF register no. 166-001, 6/2020. Pediatr Nephrol 2021; 36:2971-2985. [PMID: 34091756 PMCID: PMC8445869 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-021-05135-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is the most frequent glomerular disease in children in most parts of the world. Children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) generally have a good prognosis regarding the maintenance of normal kidney function even in the case of frequent relapses. The course of SSNS is often complicated by a high rate of relapses and the associated side effects of repeated glucocorticoid (steroid) therapy. The following recommendations for the treatment of SSNS are based on the comprehensive consideration of published evidence by a working group of the German Society for Pediatric Nephrology (GPN) based on the systematic Cochrane reviews on SSNS and the guidelines of the KDIGO working group (Kidney Disease - Improving Global Outcomes).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmus Ehren
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Pediatric Nephrology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Marcus R Benz
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Pediatric Nephrology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Paul T Brinkkötter
- Department II of Internal Medicine and Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Cluster of Excellence on Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Jörg Dötsch
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Pediatric Nephrology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wolfgang R Eberl
- Department of Pediatrics, Städtisches Klinikum Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Jutta Gellermann
- Pediatric Nephrology, Charité Children's Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter F Hoyer
- Center for Children and Adolescents, Pediatric Clinic II, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Isabelle Jordans
- Bundesverband Niere eV (German National Kidney-Patients Association), Mainz, Germany
| | - Clemens Kamrath
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Markus J Kemper
- Department of Pediatrics, Asklepios Medical School, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kay Latta
- Clementine Kinderhospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Dominik Müller
- Pediatric Nephrology, Charité Children's Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jun Oh
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Hepatology and Transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Burkhard Tönshoff
- Department of Pediatrics I, University Children's Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Weber
- Department of Pediatrics II, University Children's Hospital, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lutz T Weber
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Pediatric Nephrology, Children's and Adolescents' Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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8
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Abstract
Podocytopathies are kidney diseases in which direct or indirect podocyte injury drives proteinuria or nephrotic syndrome. In children and young adults, genetic variants in >50 podocyte-expressed genes, syndromal non-podocyte-specific genes and phenocopies with other underlying genetic abnormalities cause podocytopathies associated with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome or severe proteinuria. A variety of genetic variants likely contribute to disease development. Among genes with non-Mendelian inheritance, variants in APOL1 have the largest effect size. In addition to genetic variants, environmental triggers such as immune-related, infection-related, toxic and haemodynamic factors and obesity are also important causes of podocyte injury and frequently combine to cause various degrees of proteinuria in children and adults. Typical manifestations on kidney biopsy are minimal change lesions and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis lesions. Standard treatment for primary podocytopathies manifesting with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis lesions includes glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressive drugs; individuals not responding with a resolution of proteinuria have a poor renal prognosis. Renin-angiotensin system antagonists help to control proteinuria and slow the progression of fibrosis. Symptomatic management may include the use of diuretics, statins, infection prophylaxis and anticoagulation. This Primer discusses a shift in paradigm from patient stratification based on kidney biopsy findings towards personalized management based on clinical, morphological and genetic data as well as pathophysiological understanding.
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9
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Larkins NG, Liu ID, Willis NS, Craig JC, Hodson EM. Non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications for steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 4:CD002290. [PMID: 32297308 PMCID: PMC7160055 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd002290.pub5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 80% of children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) have relapses. Of these children, half relapse frequently, and are at risk of adverse effects from corticosteroids. While non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications prolong periods of remission, they have significant potential adverse effects. Currently, there is no consensus about the most appropriate second-line agent in children who are steroid sensitive, but who continue to relapse. In addition, these medications could be used with corticosteroids in the initial episode of SSNS to prolong the period of remission. This is the fourth update of a review first published in 2001 and updated in 2005, 2008 and 2013. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the benefits and harms of non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications in SSNS in children with a relapsing course of SSNS and in children with their first episode of nephrotic syndrome. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 10 March 2020 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 (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs were included if they involved children with SSNS and compared non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications with placebo, corticosteroids (prednisone or prednisolone) or no treatment; compared different non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications or different doses, durations or routes of administration of the same non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medication. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed study eligibility, risk of bias of the included studies and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random-effects model and results expressed as risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous outcomes or mean difference (MD) for continuous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The certainty of the evidence was assessed using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS We identified 43 studies (91 reports) and included data from 2428 children. Risk of bias assessment indicated that 21 and 24 studies were at low risk of bias for sequence generation and allocation concealment respectively. Nine studies were at low risk of performance bias and 10 were at low risk of detection bias. Thirty-seven and 27 studies were at low risk of incomplete and selective reporting respectively. Rituximab (in combination with calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) and prednisolone) versus CNI and prednisolone probably reduces the number of children who relapse at six months (5 studies, 269 children: RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.43) and 12 months (3 studies, 198 children: RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.93) (moderate certainty evidence). At six months, rituximab resulted in 126 children/1000 relapsing compared with 548 children/1000 treated with conservative treatments. Rituximab may result in infusion reactions (4 studies, 252 children: RR 5.83, 95% CI 1.34 to 25.29). Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and levamisole may have similar effects on the number of children who relapse at 12 months (1 study, 149 children: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.16). MMF may have a similar effect on the number of children relapsing compared to cyclosporin (2 studies, 82 children: RR 1.90, 95% CI 0.66 to 5.46) (low certainty evidence). MMF compared to cyclosporin is probably less likely to result in hypertrichosis (3 studies, 140 children: RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.50) and gum hypertrophy (3 studies, 144 children: RR 0.09, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.42) (low certainty evidence). Levamisole compared with steroids or placebo may reduce the number of children with relapse during treatment (8 studies, 474 children: RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.82) (low certainty evidence). Levamisole compared to cyclophosphamide may make little or no difference to the risk for relapse after 6 to 9 months (2 studies, 97 children: RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.81) (low certainty evidence). Cyclosporin compared with prednisolone may reduce the number of children who relapse (1 study, 104 children: RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.83) (low certainty evidence). Alkylating agents compared with cyclosporin may make little or no difference to the risk of relapse during cyclosporin treatment (2 studies, 95 children: RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.48) (low certainty evidence) but may reduce the risk of relapse at 12 to 24 months (2 studies, 95 children: RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.74), suggesting that the benefit of the alkylating agents may be sustained beyond the on-treatment period (low certainty evidence). Alkylating agents (cyclophosphamide and chlorambucil) compared with prednisone probably reduce the number of children, who experience relapse at six to 12 months (6 studies, 202 children: RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.60) and at 12 to 24 months (4 studies, 59 children: RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.46) (moderate certainty evidence). IV cyclophosphamide may reduce the number of children with relapse compared with oral cyclophosphamide at 6 months (2 studies, 83 children: RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.88), but not at 12 to 24 months (2 studies, 83 children: RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.29) and may result in fewer infections (2 studies, 83 children: RR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.72) (low certainty evidence). Cyclophosphamide compared to chlorambucil may make little or no difference in the risk of relapse after 12 months (1 study, 50 children: RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.13) (low certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS New studies incorporated in this review indicate that rituximab is a valuable additional agent for managing children with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome. However, the treatment effect is temporary, and many children will require additional courses of rituximab. The long-term adverse effects of this treatment are not known. Comparative studies of CNIs, MMF, levamisole and alkylating agents have demonstrated little or no differences in efficacy but, because of insufficient power; clinically important differences in treatment effects have not been completely excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas G Larkins
- Princess Margaret HospitalDepartment of NephrologyRoberts RdSubiacoWAAustralia6008
| | - Isaac D Liu
- National University Health SystemDepartment of Paediatrics1E Kent Ridge Road, NUHS Tower Block, Level 12SingaporeSingapore119228
| | - Narelle S Willis
- The University of SydneySydney School of Public HealthSydneyNSWAustralia2006
- The Children's Hospital at WestmeadCochrane Kidney and Transplant, Centre for Kidney ResearchLocked Bag 4001WestmeadNSWAustralia2145
| | - Jonathan C Craig
- The Children's Hospital at WestmeadCochrane Kidney and Transplant, Centre for Kidney ResearchLocked Bag 4001WestmeadNSWAustralia2145
- Flinders UniversityCollege of Medicine and Public HealthAdelaideSAAustralia5001
| | - Elisabeth M Hodson
- The University of SydneySydney School of Public HealthSydneyNSWAustralia2006
- The Children's Hospital at WestmeadCochrane Kidney and Transplant, Centre for Kidney ResearchLocked Bag 4001WestmeadNSWAustralia2145
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Sawires H, Abdelaziz H, Ahmed HM, Botrous O, Agban M. Randomized controlled trial on immunomodulatory effects of azithromycin in children with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2019; 34:1591-1597. [PMID: 31089818 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-019-04251-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Azithromycin (AZM) is a macrolide antibiotic with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Our aim was to compare the immunomodulatory effects of AZM combined with steroid therapy with that of steroid therapy alone in children with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS). METHODS We enrolled 57 patients with SDNS in a multicenter randomized control trial. Patients were classified into two groups: group A (intervention group, N = 29) and group B (control group, N = 28). After achievement of remission with full-dose daily prednisone, patients in group A received AZM in conjunction with steroids which was tapered gradually, while patients in group B received steroids alone. Urine protein creatinine ratio (uPCR) and TNF-α were measured at different points of follow-up throughout the study period (5 months after achieving remission). RESULTS After achievement of remission by full-dose steroids, there were significant differences of TNF-α between the two groups after 1-, 3- and 5-month follow-up (p < 0.001, 0.003, and 0.001, respectively). Also, there was significant difference of TNF-α in both intervention and control groups after exclusion of the relapsed cases at 3- and 5-month follow-up (, p = 0.031 and p = 0.003, respectively). There was significant difference between both groups after 5-month follow-up as regards the number of relapsed patients (group A = 4, group B = 11, p = 0.015). CONCLUSION AZM was capable of reducing serum TNF-α which is one of the inflammatory cytokines implicated in the pathogenesis of NS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Happy Sawires
- Pediatric Nephrology Center, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt. .,Pediatric Nephrology & Transplantation Center, 5 El-Lithy Street El-Maadi El-Gedida, Cairo, 11435, Egypt.
| | | | | | - Osama Botrous
- Pediatric Nephrology Department, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Michael Agban
- Microbiology Department, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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A comparison of cyclophosphamide versus tacrolimus in terms of treatment effect for idiopathic membranous nephropathy: A meta-analysis. Nefrologia 2019; 39:269-276. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nefro.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
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Maxted AP, Dalrymple RA, Chisholm D, McColl J, Tse Y, Christian MT, Reynolds BC. Low-dose rituximab is no less effective for nephrotic syndrome measured by 12-month outcome. Pediatr Nephrol 2019; 34:855-863. [PMID: 30564878 PMCID: PMC6424916 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-018-4172-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rituximab is an effective treatment for children with steroid dependent or frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome. The optimum dosing schedule for rituximab has not been established. We hypothesized that a single low dose of 375 mg/m2 would have comparable outcomes to higher doses in reducing the frequency of relapse and time to B cell reconstitution. METHODS We conducted a multicenter retrospective observational cohort study of children with steroid-sensitive frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome. Data were extracted from clinical records including the dates of diagnosis, treatment, relapses, the use of concomitant immunosuppression, and lymphocyte subset profiling. Patients treated earlier received variable doses of rituximab, although typically two doses of 750 mg/m2. Later, patients received the current regimen of a single dose of 375 mg/m2. The primary outcome was an absence of clinically confirmed relapse 12 months following rituximab administration. Secondary outcomes were median time to relapse, probability of being relapse-free at 6 and 24 months and time to reconstitution of CD19+ B cells. RESULTS Sixty patients received 143 courses of rituximab. Seven different dosing regimen strategies were used, ranging between 375 and 750 mg/m2 per dose, with administration of 1-4 doses. There was no significant difference in event-free survival at 12 months between dosing strategies. The median time to reconstitution of B cells was not significantly different between groups. CONCLUSIONS Use of a single low-dose regimen of rituximab in the management of frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome does not affect the probability of relapse at 12 months or time to B cell reconstitution compared to a conventional higher dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P. Maxted
- Nottingham Children’s Hospital Renal and Urology Unit, Nottingham, UK
| | - Rebecca A. Dalrymple
- Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow, G51 4TF UK
| | - Denise Chisholm
- 0000 0004 4904 7256grid.459561.aGreat North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - John McColl
- 0000 0001 2193 314Xgrid.8756.cSchool of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Yincent Tse
- 0000 0004 4904 7256grid.459561.aGreat North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Ben C. Reynolds
- Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow, G51 4TF UK
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Noone DG, Iijima K, Parekh R. Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children. Lancet 2018; 392:61-74. [PMID: 29910038 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)30536-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 276] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (NS) is 1·15-16·9 per 100 000 children, varying by ethnicity and region. The cause remains unknown but the pathogenesis of idiopathic NS is thought to involve immune dysregulation, systemic circulating factors, or inherited structural abnormalities of the podocyte. Genetic risk is more commonly described among children with steroid-resistant disease. The mainstay of therapy is prednisone for the vast majority of patients who are steroid responsive; however, the disease can run a frequently relapsing course, necessitating the need for alternative immunosuppressive agents. Infection and venous thromboembolism are the main complications of NS with also increased risk of acute kidney injury. Prognosis in terms of long-term kidney outcome overall is excellent for steroid-responsive disease, and steroid resistance is an important determinant of future risk of chronic or end-stage kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien G Noone
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Nephrology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kazumoto Iijima
- Department of Pediatrics, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Rulan Parekh
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Nephrology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, and Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Jiang X, Shen W, Xu X, Shen X, Li Y, He Q. Immunosuppressive therapy for steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome: a Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies. Clin Exp Nephrol 2017; 22:562-569. [PMID: 29080118 DOI: 10.1007/s10157-017-1484-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis examining the efficacy of cyclophosphamide, cyclosporin, and tacrolimus in treating steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome. METHODS Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Google Scholar were searched until May 02, 2017 using the keywords: immunosuppressive therapy, steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine A, and tacrolimus. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including patients with SRNS treated with an immunosuppressive therapy or placebo. RESULTS Seven RCTs were included, and the number of patients ranged from 30 to 131. Conventional pair-wise meta-analysis indicated a higher odds of complete or partial remission with tacrolimus as compared to cyclophosphamide [odds ratio (OR) 4.908, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.278-10.576, P < 0.001], and cyclophosphamide (OR 0.143, 95% CI 0.028-0.721, P = 0.019) and placebo (OR 0.043, 95% CI 0.012-0.157, P < 0.001) were associated with a lower likelihood of complete or partial remission than cyclosporine. Bayesian analysis indicated that tacrolimus and cyclosporine were the best and the second-best agents for inducing a complete or partial remission (rank probability = 0.53 for tacrolimus and 0.46 for cyclosporine). CONCLUSION As compared to cyclophosphamide and cyclosporin, tacrolimus is more effective at inducing remission in patients with SRNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, 158 Shangtang Road, Xiachen District, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Shen
- Department of Nephrology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, 158 Shangtang Road, Xiachen District, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiujun Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, 158 Shangtang Road, Xiachen District, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaogang Shen
- Department of Nephrology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, 158 Shangtang Road, Xiachen District, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiwen Li
- Department of Nephrology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, 158 Shangtang Road, Xiachen District, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang He
- Department of Nephrology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, 158 Shangtang Road, Xiachen District, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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Abeyagunawardena AS, Karunadasa U, Jayaweera H, Thalgahagoda S, Tennakoon S, Abeyagunawardena S. Efficacy of higher-dose levamisole in maintaining remission in steroid-dependant nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2017; 32:1363-1367. [PMID: 28299461 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-017-3616-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Levamisole (LEV) has been used successfully on an alternate-day regime of 2.5 mg/kg in steroid-dependant nephrotic syndrome (SDNS) to maintain remission. This pilot study was carried out between 2010 and 2015 at a single center in Sri Lanka to evaluate the efficacy of LEV prescribed at 2.5 mg/kg daily, which is double the alternate-day dose. METHODS Sequential children with SDNS, relapsing more than twice in the preceding 12 months and previously treated with LEV and low-dose alternate-day prednisolone (0.1-0.6 mg/kg) were recruited to the study. This group received LEV (2.5 mg/kg) daily with the same dose of alternate-day prednisolone for 1 year. Urine protein excretion was recorded by parents on a daily basis, and the presence of 3+ proteinuria on 3 consecutive days was considered a relapse. Full blood counts and liver function tests were performed every 3 months to monitor for adverse effects. RESULTS Sixty-four children were enrolled into the study; six were excluded due to prescription of other immunosuppressive drugs. Median age was 7.9 years; 33 were boys. The number of relapse episodes was 163 [mean per patient 2.8 ± standard deviation (SD) 0.8] in patients on alternate-day LEV and 77 (mean 1.3 ± SD 0.9) for those on daily LEV during the 12-month period of observation. The P value 0.000 (according to the Wilcoxon signed-rank test) was <0.001. No major adverse events were noted. CONCLUSIONS The prescription of daily LEV is effective and safe for maintaining SDNS remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asiri S Abeyagunawardena
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
| | - Umeshi Karunadasa
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Heshan Jayaweera
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Shenal Thalgahagoda
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Sampath Tennakoon
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
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Xu D, Gao X, Bian R, Mei C, Xu C. Tacrolimus improves proteinuria remission in adults with cyclosporine A-resistant or -dependent minimal change disease. Nephrology (Carlton) 2016; 22:251-256. [PMID: 28035723 DOI: 10.1111/nep.12991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cyclosporin A (CsA) is considered as an effective treatment option for steroid-resistant or-dependent patients with adult-onset minimal change disease (MCD). However, CsA resistance or dependence is also observed in these patients. Tacrolimus (TAC) is a calcineurin inhibitor that is potent in cytokine suppression. The authors aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TAC therapy in CsA-resistant and-dependent adult-onset MCD patients. METHODS Patients with adult-onset MCD were enrolled in our department from 2008 to 2012. All patients were demonstrated to be resistant to or dependent on CsA therapy. Prednisone (0.5 mg/kg per day) combined with TAC (0.05-0.1 mg/kg per day) were prescribed to these patients for at least 6 months. The primary outcome was complete or partial remission of proteinuria. Secondary outcomes included time required for complete or partial remission, adverse events, number of relapses, and TAC dosages. RESULTS A total of 11 MCD patients were enrolled in this observational study. The numbers of patients who presented with resistance to or dependence on CsA were 7 and 4, respectively. The total remission rate was 90.9% (10/11) with the complete remission rate 72.7% (8/11). Most remission patients achieved remission during the first 2 months of TAC therapy. Patients who presented with dependence on CsA had achieved complete remission with TAC therapy, while outcomes for CsA-resistant patients were four complete remissions, two partial remissions and one resistance. The adverse events were observed in this study included infection, diarrhoea, and worsened hypertension. Five patients who had remission experienced relapse. CONCLUSIONS Tacrolimus improves proteinuria remission in adults with CsA-resistant or -dependent MCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dechao Xu
- Kidney Institute of PLA, Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Kidney Institute of PLA, Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rongrong Bian
- Kidney Institute of PLA, Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Changlin Mei
- Kidney Institute of PLA, Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenggang Xu
- Kidney Institute of PLA, Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Nephrology, Third affiliated Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Wang J, Mao J, Chen J, Fu H, Shen H, Zhu X, Liu A, Shu Q, Du L. Evaluation of mycophenolate mofetil or tacrolimus in children with steroid sensitive but frequently relapsing or steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome. Nephrology (Carlton) 2016; 21:21-7. [PMID: 26697959 DOI: 10.1111/nep.12537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Approximately 30-40% of children with steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome have frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome (FRNS) or steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS). Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and tacrolimus (TAC) are often alternative treatment choices for these patients. METHODS A single-center prospective study was conducted to compare the efficacy of MMF or TAC in reducing relapses and maintaining remission in children with FRNS or SDNS. Of the 72 recruited patients, either MMF (20∼30 mg/kg/d, n = 34) or TAC (0.05∼0.15 mg/kg/d, n = 38) was administered for 12 months. RESULTS The mean 6-month relapse rates decreased from 2.56 episodes before therapy to 0.76 episodes in the first 6 months after therapy (c(2) = 44.362, p < 0.001) and 0.67 in the next 6 months (c(2) = 37.817, p < 0.001) in the MMF group. In the TAC group, the mean 6-month relapse rates decreased from 2.39 episodes before therapy to 0.41 episodes in the first 6 months after therapy (c(2) = 62.242, p < 0.001) and 0.42 in next 6 months (c(2) = 67.482, p < 0.001). No significant difference in the relapse rate was found between the groups (before therapy, c(2) = 0.902, p = 0.637; first 6 months, c(2) = 5.358, p = 0.147; second 6 months, c(2) = 4.089, p = 0.252). And there was also no significant difference in cumulative sustained remission and the incidence of adverse events between two groups. CONCLUSIONS In combination with low-dose steroids, MMF or TAC presented similar efficacy in maintaining remission in children with FRNS/SDNS in the present study. Therapy with MMF or TAC is a promising strategy with a moderate risk of side effects in children who are steroid sensitive but have FRNS/SDNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junyi Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haidong Fu
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huijun Shen
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiujuan Zhu
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Aimin Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Shu
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lizhong Du
- Department of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Tacrolimus for children with refractory nephrotic syndrome: a one-year prospective, multicenter, and open-label study of Tacrobell®, a generic formula. World J Pediatr 2016; 12:60-5. [PMID: 26684309 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-015-0062-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclosporine A and tacrolimus (TAC) are often used as a second-line treatment for children with refractory nephrotic syndrome (NS). This study was undertaken to investigate the efficacy and safety of Tacrobell®, a locally produced generic form of TAC. METHODS This study was a one-year prospective, open-label, single-arm, multicenter trial. Fourty-four children with steroid-dependent NS (SDNS) and 33 children with steroid-resistant NS (SRNS) were enrolled. The primary endpoints were defined as the remission rates, whereas the secondary endpoints were recognized as the duration of remission and adverse effects of TAC. RESULTS After one-year treatment, 34 (77.3%) of the 44 patients with SDNS were in complete remission, and 6 (13.6%) were in partial remission. Nineteen (43.2%) patients did not relapse during the study; for those who did relapse, the mean duration of remission was 4.6±2.9 months. The number of relapse episodes during the study period (0.90 per patient-year) was significantly lower than that in the preceding year (2.8 per patient-year). After treatment for 3 and 6 months, 12 (36.4%) of the 33 patients with SRNS were in remission, and after treatment for 12 months, the number of patients had increased to 13 (39.4%). The mean time to achieve remission was 4.0±3.2 months. After remission (duration, 3.7±2.7 months), 12 (54.5%) of 22 patients relapsed. The fasting blood glucose and blood pressure levels during the therapy were similar to those at the time of study entry. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with Tacrobell® was effective and safe for children with refractory NS. The efficacy of this generic form of TAC was better than that of the original TAC formula.
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Pal A, Kaskel F. History of Nephrotic Syndrome and Evolution of its Treatment. Front Pediatr 2016; 4:56. [PMID: 27303658 PMCID: PMC4885377 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2016.00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The recognition, evaluation, and early treatment of nephrotic syndrome in infants and children originate from physicians dating back to Hippocrates. It took nearly another 1000 years before the condition was described for its massive edema requiring treatment with herbs and other remedies. A rich history of observations and interpretations followed over the course of centuries until the recognition of the combination of clinical findings of foamy urine and swelling of the body, and measurements of urinary protein and blood analyses showed the phenotypic characteristics of the syndrome that were eventually linked to the early anatomic descriptions from first kidney autopsies and then renal biopsy analyses. Coincident with these findings were a series of treatment modalities involving the use of natural compounds to a host of immunosuppressive agents that are applied today. With the advent of molecular and precision medicine, the field is poised to make major advances in our understanding and effective treatment of nephrotic syndrome and prevent its long-term sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijeet Pal
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine , New York, NY , USA
| | - Frederick Kaskel
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine , New York, NY , USA
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Peng L, Wei SY, Li LT, He YX, Li B. Comparison of different therapies in high-risk patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. J Formos Med Assoc 2016; 115:11-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2015.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 07/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Sinha A, Menon S, Bagga A. Nephrotic Syndrome: State of the Art. CURRENT PEDIATRICS REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40124-014-0066-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Clinical practice guideline for pediatric idiopathic nephrotic syndrome 2013: medical therapy. Clin Exp Nephrol 2015; 19:6-33. [DOI: 10.1007/s10157-014-1030-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Fervenza FC, Perazella MA, Choi MJ. American Society of Nephrology Quiz and Questionnaire 2013: Glomerulonephritis. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2014; 9:987-96. [DOI: 10.2215/cjn.11571113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Pravitsitthikul N, Willis NS, Hodson EM, Craig JC. Non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications for steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013:CD002290. [PMID: 24166716 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd002290.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 80% to 90% of children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) have relapses. Of these children, around half relapse frequently, and are at risk of adverse effects from corticosteroids. Non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications are used to prolong periods of remission in these children; however, these medications have significant potential adverse effects. Currently, there is no consensus about the most appropriate second line agent in children who are steroid sensitive, but who continue to relapse. This is the third update of a review first published in 2001 and updated in 2005 and 2008. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the benefits and harms of non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications in relapsing SSNS in children. SEARCH METHODS For this update we searched the Cochrane Renal Group's Specialised Register to June 2013. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs were included if they compared non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications with placebo, prednisone or no treatment, different non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medications and different doses, durations or routes of administration of the same non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive medication. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed the risk of bias of the included studies and extracted data. Statistical analyses were performed using a random-effects model and results expressed as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). MAIN RESULTS We identified 32 studies (1443 children) of which one study is still ongoing. In the 31 studies with data, risk of bias assessment indicated that 11 (37%) and 16 (53%) studies were at low risk of bias for sequence generation and allocation concealment respectively. Six (29%) studies were at low risk of performance and detection bias. Twenty seven (87%) and 19 (60%) studies were at low risk of incomplete and selective reporting respectively. Alkylating agents (cyclophosphamide and chlorambucil) significantly reduced the risk of relapse at six to 12 months (RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.60) and 12 to 24 months (RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.46) compared with prednisone alone. There was no significant difference in relapse risk at two years between chlorambucil and cyclophosphamide (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.13). There was no significant difference at one year between intravenous and oral cyclophosphamide (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.29). Cyclosporin was as effective as cyclophosphamide (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.48 to 2.35) and chlorambucil (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.53) at the end of therapy while levamisole (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.89) was more effective than steroids alone. However the effects of cyclosporin and levamisole were not sustained once treatment was stopped. In one small study cyclosporin significantly reduced the relapse rate compared with mycophenolate mofetil (MD 0.75, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.49). Limited data from a cross-over study suggested that cyclosporin was more effective than mycophenolate mofetil in maintaining remission. In steroid- and cyclosporin-dependent disease, rituximab significantly reduced the risk of relapse at three months compared with conventional therapy. Mizoribine and azathioprine were no more effective than placebo or prednisone alone in maintaining remission. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Eight-week courses of cyclophosphamide or chlorambucil and prolonged courses of cyclosporin and levamisole reduce the risk of relapse in children with relapsing SSNS compared with corticosteroids alone. Limited data indicate that mycophenolate mofetil and rituximab are valuable additional medications for relapsing SSNS. However clinically important differences in efficacy are possible and further comparative studies are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanthiya Pravitsitthikul
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, NSW, Australia, 2145
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Sarkar S, Mondal R, Nandi M, Das AK. Tacrolimus induced diabetic ketoacidosis in nephrotic syndrome. Indian J Pediatr 2013; 80:596-7. [PMID: 22660906 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-012-0797-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Tacrolimus, a reversible calcineurin inhibitor, is known for its diabetogenic potential. The incidence of diabetes is less frequent among the patients of nephrotic syndrome in comparison to organ transplant recipients. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is even rarer. DKA as the first presentation of new onset tacrolimus induced transient type 1 diabetes despite a lower dose range and low trough level of the drug is being reported in a 12-y-old girl with steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumantra Sarkar
- Department of Pediatrics, IPGME&R, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
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Sinha A, Sharma A, Mehta A, Gupta R, Gulati A, Hari P, Dinda AK, Bagga A. Calcineurin inhibitor induced nephrotoxicity in steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome. Indian J Nephrol 2013; 23:41-6. [PMID: 23580804 PMCID: PMC3621237 DOI: 10.4103/0971-4065.107197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Prolonged therapy with calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) is effective in patients with difficult nephrotic syndrome. However, information on prevalence and risk factors for nephrotoxicity in children with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome is limited. This retrospective observational study was conducted on 40 patients with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome treated with cyclosporine (CyA) (n = 28) or tacrolimus (n = 12) for more than 2 years. Nephrotoxicity was defined by the presence of striped fibrosis involving ≥10% of the interstitium or nodular hyalinosis in more than one arteriole. Ten additional parameters were graded semi-quantitatively. Continuous data are presented as median and interquartile range (IQR). The median (IQR) age at onset of nephrotic syndrome and CNI therapy were 30 (21-45) and 49.5 (40-102.5) months. A second renal biopsy, following 30 (26-35) months of CNI therapy, showed histological toxicity in 10 (25%) patients. Toxicity was seen in 7 and 3 patients receiving CyA and tacrolimus, respectively, and 5 patients each with minimal change and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Therapy with CNI was associated with significant increases in scores for global glomerulosclerosis, tubular atrophy, interstitial fibrosis, nonnodular arteriolar hyalinosis (P < –0.001 for all), arteriolar smooth-muscle vacuolization (P = –0.02), juxtaglomerular hyperplasia (P = –0.002), and tubular microcalcinosis (P = –0.06). Risk factors for nephrotoxicity were initial resistance (OR 9; 95% CI 1.0-80.1; P = –0.049); dose of CyA (OR 9.2; 95% CI 1.1-74.6; P = –0.037); duration of heavy proteinuria (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.0-1.4; P = –0.023); and hypertension during therapy (OR 6; 95% CI 1.3-28.3; P = –0.023). Following prolonged CNI therapy, one in four biopsies show features of toxicity. Prolonged duration of heavy proteinuria, hypertension, initial steroid resistance and high CyA dose predict the occurrence of nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sinha
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Treatment of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome: new guidelines from KDIGO. Pediatr Nephrol 2013; 28:415-26. [PMID: 23052651 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-012-2310-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Revised: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The 2012 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) clinical practice guideline on glomerulonephritis (GN) is intended to assist the practitioner caring for patients with GN. Two chapters of this guideline focus specifically on nephrotic syndrome in children. Guideline development followed a thorough evidence review, and management recommendations and suggestions were based on the best available evidence. Critical appraisal of the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations followed the Grades of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Chapters 3 and 4 of the guideline focus on the management of nephrotic syndrome in children aged 1-18 years. Guideline recommendations for children who have steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SNSS), defined by their response to corticosteroid therapy with complete remission, are addressed here. Recommendations for those with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) (i.e., do not achieve complete remission) are discussed in the companion article. Limitations of the evidence, including the paucity of large-scale randomized controlled trials, are discussed. This article provides a short description of the KDIGO process, the guideline recommendations for treatment of SSNS in children and a brief review of relevant treatment trials related to each recommendation.
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Treatment of tacrolimus or cyclosporine A in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2012; 27:2073-2079. [PMID: 22714672 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-012-2228-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2011] [Revised: 05/19/2012] [Accepted: 05/31/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclosporine A (CsA) and tacrolimus (TAC) are often alternative treatment choices for patients with nephrotic syndrome. METHODS In this prospective study, the efficacy and safety of CsA and TAC in inducing and maintaining remission in 74 children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) were evaluated. RESULTS In terms of short-term efficacy, TAC was more effective than CsA in children with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (χ(2) = 13.75, P = 0.001), although no significant difference in number of episodes of relapse were found in patients with complete remission between the two treatment groups (first year: χ(2) = 0.261, P = 0.88; second year: χ(2) = 2.685, P = 0.26). In patients with frequently relapsing or steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome, no significant difference in short-term remission (χ(2) = 1.908, P = 0.39) or in relapse frequency during follow-up (within first year: χ(2) = 1.046, P = 0.59; within second year: χ(2) = 0.587, P = 0.75) were found between the two groups. There was a difference in the rate of adverse effects between the two treatment groups [nephrotoxicity: 4/24 (CsA) vs .0/50 (TAC), P = 0.002; hirsutism: 8/24 (CsA) vs. 0/50 (TAC), P < 0.001]. CONCLUSIONS In our pediatric patient cohort, the treatment of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome with tacrolimus was associated with higher efficacy and lower renal toxicity in comparison to CsA, although no favorable outcome in relapse rate during long-term follow-up was seen. On the other hand, tacrolimus was not always the better choice to replace CsA in the treatment of severe frequently relapsing or steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome.
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Oh J, Kemper MJ. Second-line options for refractory steroid-sensitive and -resistant nephrotic syndrome. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2012; 3:527-37. [PMID: 22111681 DOI: 10.1586/ecp.10.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Although initially, many children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome respond to steroid therapy, a repeated course for patients with relapses often causes significant steroid toxicity. Patients with frequent relapses or steroid dependency thus require alternative treatment, and so far, cyclophosphamide or levamisole have been regarded as first-choice options, although the latter is no longer available in many countries. Data are accumulating that mycophenolic acid may be an alternative for these patients. Calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine A or tacrolimus) are usually effective and are often used after cytotoxic treatment, but long-term treatment is necessary, raising concerns regarding the accumulation of side effects. Still, some patients show a tendency to relapse even on this maintenance regimen and some even have a refractory course that creates a medical dilemma. For this situation, recent data have demonstrated an effect of monoclonal antibodies directed to B cells - rituximab, a drug that may also prove to be a therapeutic option in less complicated cases. Patients that do not respond to initial steroid treatment need genetic testing and a renal biopsy, since focal segmental glomerulosclerosis may be present. Treatment options include pulse methylprednisolone, often in addition to calcineurin inhibitors (mainly cyclosporine but also, recently, tacrolimus). Cyctotoxic treatment, especially intravenous cyclophosphamide, has been found to be effective in steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome by some studies but is inferior to calcineurin inhibitors. In addition, mycophenolic acid and rituximab have been used in children with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis; however, response seems to be inferior in comparison with patients with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Taken together, idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, including steroid-sensitive as well as steroid-resistant patients, is a potentially serious disorder. Although much progress has been made in recent years and a wide arsenal of immunological interventions is available, some patients have a treatment refractory course. Prospective studies or at least standardization of treatment for complicated cases is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Oh
- Pediatric Nephrology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, D-20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Tacrolimus Versus Intravenous Pulse Cyclophosphamide Therapy in Chinese Adults With Steroid-Resistant Idiopathic Minimal Change Nephropathy: A Multicenter, Open-Label, Nonrandomized Cohort Trial. Clin Ther 2012; 34:1112-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Sinha A, Bagga A, Gulati A, Hari P. Short-term efficacy of rituximab versus tacrolimus in steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2012; 27:235-41. [PMID: 21922213 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-011-1997-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2011] [Revised: 08/21/2011] [Accepted: 08/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although therapy with intravenous (IV) rituximab and tacrolimus reduces the relapse rate in steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS), studies on comparative efficacy are lacking. We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients with difficult-to-treat SDNS who had previously received levamisole, cyclophosphamide and/or mycophenolate mofetil, then treated with either rituximab or tacrolimus and followed for 12 months. Between January 2009 and April 2010, ten patients received two to three doses of IV rituximab (375 mg/m(2)/week) and 13 received tacrolimus (0.1-0.2 mg/kg/day) for 12 months; none had previously received either agent. Patients received tapering doses of alternate-day prednisolone; other immunosuppressive agents were discontinued. The mean age of the patients at treatment initiation with rituximab and tacrolimus was 12.2 ± 2.3 and 12.3 ± 3.0 years, respectively. The respective pre-treatment relapse rates (3.1 ± 1.1 and 3.5 ± 1.6 relapses per year) and cumulative prednisolone dose (137.2 ± 69.4 and 140.5 ± 59.0 mg/kg/year) were similar. Therapy resulted in a decline in relapse rate in both groups (P < 0.001). The number of relapses in the rituximab and tacrolimus groups was similar at 6 months (0.3 ± 0.5 vs. 0.3 ± 0.6 episodes, respectively), 12 months (0.8 ± 1.0 vs. 0.9 ± 1.1 episodes) and last follow-up (1.2 ± 1.0 vs. 1.5 ± 1.3 episodes). There were no differences in relapse-free survival at 6, 12 and 18 months. Therapy resulted in a significant decline in the cumulative prednisolone dose (67.2% in the rituximab group and 43.6% in the tacrolimus group) and a reduced body mass index. These findings suggest that in our patients with difficult-to-treat SDNS, treatment with two to three doses of rituximab was as effective as 12 months of therapy with tacrolimus in terms of steroid sparing and reduction in the relapse rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Sinha
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
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New therapies in steroid-sensitive and steroid-resistant idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2011; 26:881-92. [PMID: 21229269 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-010-1717-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2010] [Revised: 11/02/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Although many children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) respond initially to steroid therapy, repeated courses for patients with relapses often cause significant steroid toxicity. Patients with frequent relapses who develop steroid dependency thus require alternative treatment. The first such options have been considered to be cyclophosphamide or levamisole, although the latter is no longer available in many countries. There is also an increasing body of data indicating that mycophenolic acid (MPA) may be an alternative for these patients. Calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine A or tacrolimus) are usually effective and often used after cytotoxic treatment, but long-term treatment with these agents is necessary, raising concerns of a possible accumulation of side effects. Some patients show a tendency to relapse even on such maintenance regimens, and some even have a refractory course that creates a medical dilemma. For this situation, recent data indicate that monoclonal antibodies directed to B-cells (e.g. rituximab) may have some effect and that such drugs may also prove to be a therapeutic option in less complicated cases. Patients that do not respond to steroid treatment need genetic testing and a renal biopsy since focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) may be present. Treatment options include pulse methylprednisolone, often in addition to calcineurin inhibitors, mainly in the form of cyclosporine, but tacrolimus has also come into recent favor. Some studies have found cytotoxic treatment, especially intravenous cyclophosphamide, to be effective in steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome, but it seems to be inferior to calcineurin inhibitors. MPA and rituximab have also been used in children with primary FSGS, but the response seems to be inferior to that in patients with steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Taken together, INS in both steroid-sensitive and steroid-resistant patients is a potentially complicated disorder, and despite a wide arsenal of immunological interventions, some patients have a treatment refractory course. Prospective studies or at least standardized treatment for complicated cases is urgently needed.
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Meyrier A. An update on the treatment options for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2009; 10:615-28. [PMID: 19284364 DOI: 10.1517/14656560902754029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is not a disease but a lesion initially affecting the podocyte. Various factors may induce 'secondary' FSGS, including defects in molecules that contribute to the podocyte slit diaphragm permselectivity to albumin. They do not represent indications for immunosuppression and require symptomatic treatment only, comprising angiotensin 2 and endothelin antagonists. Primary (idiopathic) FSGS is possibly but not certainly of immunologic origin, owing to an elusive glomerular permeability factor (GPF), explaining relapse on a renal transplant and justifying an immunosuppressive treatment. The best prognostic feature of primary nephrotic FSGS is its response to corticosteroids. Alkylating agents are mostly ineffective in steroid-resistant forms. An association of corticosteroids and cyclosporine A (CsA) remains the mainstay of treatment, with a good tolerability when CsA dosage is low. A definite advantage of tacrolimus on CsA has not yet been established. Sirolimus appears ineffective and potentially harmful. Azathioprine is not indicated. A number of mostly uncontrolled trials indicate that mycophenolate mofetil might find an adjunctive place in the treatment. Plasmapheresis is of no avail outside the special case of relapse in a transplanted kidney. Immunoabsorption of the GPF has not led to practical treatment options. Anecdotal reports on rituximab are as yet too few to determine whether this monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody will find a place in the treatment of primary FSGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Meyrier
- Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Georges Pompidou, Paris, France.
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Li X, Li H, Ye H, Li Q, He X, Zhang X, Chen Y, Han F, He Q, Wang H, Chen J. Tacrolimus therapy in adults with steroid- and cyclophosphamide-resistant nephrotic syndrome and normal or mildly reduced GFR. Am J Kidney Dis 2009; 54:51-8. [PMID: 19406543 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2009.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2008] [Accepted: 02/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a proportion of adults with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS), intravenous cyclophosphamide therapy fails. Tacrolimus may be a promising alternative to cyclophosphamide for such patients. STUDY DESIGN Prospective observational study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS 19 adults with SRNS (6 with minimal change nephropathy, 8 with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis [FSGS], and 5 with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis) that did not respond to intravenous cyclophosphamide therapy were studied from January 2003 to September 2006. Oral tacrolimus was administered (target trough levels, 5 to 10 ng/mL) for 24 weeks, then reduced doses were given (target trough level, 3 to 6 ng/mL) for another 24 weeks. FACTORS Histopathologic types: minimal change nephropathy (n = 6), FSGS (n = 8), and mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis (n = 5). OUTCOMES MEASUREMENTS outcome variables included complete remission (decrease in daily proteinuria to protein < or = 0.3 g/d), partial remission (decrease in daily proteinuria to protein < 3.5 g/d but > 0.3 g/d), relapse (increase in daily proteinuria to protein > or = 3.5 g/d in patients who had partial or complete remission), change in kidney function, and tacrolimus dosing and serum levels. RESULTS 17 patients completed at least 24 weeks of tacrolimus therapy. Complete remission was achieved in 11 patients (64.7%), and partial remission was achieved in 3 (17.6%). Complete or partial remission was achieved in 5 of 5 patients with minimal change nephropathy, 4 of 7 patients with FSGS, and 5 of 5 patients with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis. Primary resistance to tacrolimus was seen in 3 patients (17.6%), all with FSGS. Mean times to achieve partial and complete remission were 5.6 +/- 1.4 and 8.0 +/- 5.1 weeks, respectively. In patients who achieved complete or partial remission, 35.7% experienced relapse during follow-up (mean, 37.6 +/- 13.4 months). Two patients had doubling of serum creatinine levels, both with FSGS. LIMITATIONS Observational study. CONCLUSIONS Tacrolimus rapidly and effectively induced remission of SRNS in Chinese adults with disease refractory to treatment with intravenous cyclophosphamide. Treatment may be less effective in patients with FSGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiayu Li
- Kidney Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
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Choudhry S, Bagga A, Hari P, Sharma S, Kalaivani M, Dinda A. Efficacy and safety of tacrolimus versus cyclosporine in children with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Kidney Dis 2009; 53:760-9. [PMID: 19268410 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2008.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To examine whether tacrolimus is more effective and safe than cyclosporine (CsA) in inducing remission in patients with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). STUDY DESIGN Randomized controlled trial, nonblind, parallel group. SETTINGS & PARTICIPANTS Tertiary-care hospital; 41 consecutive patients with idiopathic SRNS, estimated glomerular filtration rate greater than 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2), and histological characteristics showing minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, or mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis were randomly assigned to treatment with tacrolimus (n = 21) or CsA (n = 20). INTERVENTION Tacrolimus (0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg/d) or CsA (5 to 6 mg/kg/d) for 1 year; cotreatment with alternate-day prednisolone and enalapril. OUTCOMES Patients achieving complete remission (urinary protein-creatinine ratio < 0.2 g/g and serum albumin > or = 2.5 g/dL) or partial remission (urinary protein-creatinine ratio, 0.2 to 2 g/g, and serum albumin > or =2.5 g/dL) at 6 and 12 months; time to remission; proportion with relapses; side effects. RESULTS No patient was lost to follow-up. After 6 months of therapy, remission occurred in 18 (85.7%) and 16 patients (80%) treated with tacrolimus and CsA, respectively (relative risk [RR], 1.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81 to 1.41). Rates of remission at 12 months were also similar (RR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.55). The proportion of patients who experienced relapse was significantly greater in those receiving CsA compared with tacrolimus (RR, 4.5; 95% CI, 1.1 to 18.2; P = 0.01). The decrease in blood cholesterol levels was greater with tacrolimus compared with CsA (difference in mean values, 45.1 mg/dL; 95% CI, 19.1 to 71.2). Persistent nephrotoxicity necessitating stoppage of medicine was seen in 4.7% and 10% patients, respectively. Cosmetic side effects (hypertrichosis and gum hypertrophy) were significantly more frequent in CsA-treated patients (P < 0.001). LIMITATIONS Single-center study, small sample size, and short duration of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Tacrolimus or CsA in combination with low-dose steroids show similar efficacy in inducing remission in patients with SRNS. Therapy with tacrolimus is a promising alternative to CsA in view of the lower risk of relapses and lack of cosmetic side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Choudhry
- Division of Nephrology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India
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Therapie des steroidsensiblen nephrotischen Syndroms. Monatsschr Kinderheilkd 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s00112-008-1867-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Mohan KR, Kanitkar M. Growth in Children with Steroid Sensitive Nephrotic Syndrome. Med J Armed Forces India 2009; 65:4-6. [PMID: 27408179 DOI: 10.1016/s0377-1237(09)80043-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2008] [Accepted: 08/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nephrotic syndrome in children usually has an onset between 2-8 years of age and steroids form the mainstay of management. Therapy may affect growth in children with relapsing nephrotic syndrome. This study was carried out to correlate growth with the cumulative dose of steroids in children with steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS). METHODS Data of 35 children with SSNS was analysed retrospectively. They were divided into two groups. Group I received prednisolone only and Group II received levamisole and or cyclophosphamide in addition to steroids. Their heights were recorded at the time of inclusion and again one year later. The SD scores for age were determined. Growth rate as a change in the SD score over one year (Δ SD score) was correlated to the cumulative dose of steroids over the same period using the Pearson's correlation. RESULT There were 24 (68.6 %) boys and 11 (31.4 %) girls (M:F ratio 2.18:1) in the age group of 17 months to 11 years at inclusion. Group I constituted 19 (54.2 %) and Group II, 16 (45.8 %). Pearson's correlation coefficients for all children, Groups I and II were -0.341, -0.441 and -0.255 respectively indicating "Fair correlation". This indicates that as the cumulative dose of steroid increases the growth retardation becomes more apparent. CONCLUSION Growth retardation is proportional to the cumulative dose of steroids in children with SSNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Mohan
- Graded Specialist (Pediatrics), MH Allahabad, UP:-211001
| | - M Kanitkar
- Professor & Head (Department of Pediatrics), Armed Forces Medical College, Pune- 411040
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Prediction of high-degree steroid dependency in pediatric idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2008; 23:2221-6. [PMID: 18618150 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-008-0914-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2008] [Revised: 05/05/2008] [Accepted: 05/23/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Most patients with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome are steroid-responsive, but about 50% relapse and often become steroid-dependent and exposed to long-term steroid complications. The aim of this study was to determine predictive risk factors for steroid and/or cyclosporine A (CyA) dependence. In France, steroid responsiveness is defined as remission after 1 month of oral prednisone (60 mg/m(2) per day) and-in the case of persistent proteinuria on day 30-three methylprednisolone pulses (MPP; 1 g/1.73 m(2) on days 1, 3, and 5). Thirty-five steroid-responsive children, followed between 1999 and 2006, were included in this study. Median age at diagnosis was 4.9 years. All patients initially received prednisone 60 mg/m(2) per day. Twenty-four of the 35 patients were steroid-dependent, with 12 requiring MPP. Of the latter 12 patients, 83.3% were treated with CyA during follow-up; in comparison, only 16.7% of the patients who did not receive MPP required CyA during follow-up (chi-square test, P = 0.001). T risk for steroid dependence was 100% in our cohort if remission was achieved after day 20. Patients who need MPP are at high risk to require CyA to achieve disease control. By identifying these children, we could use adequate immunosuppressive drugs earlier and reduce morbidity related to steroids and multiple relapses.
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Wang L, Flannery PJ, Rosenberg PB, Fields TA, Spurney RF. Gq-dependent signaling upregulates COX2 in glomerular podocytes. J Am Soc Nephrol 2008; 19:2108-18. [PMID: 18667730 PMCID: PMC2573009 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2008010113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2008] [Accepted: 05/23/2008] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that upregulation of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) in glomerular podocytes promotes podocyte injury. Because Gq signaling activates calcineurin and calcineurin-dependent mechanisms are known to mediate COX2 expression, this study investigated the role of Gqalpha in promoting COX2 expression in podocytes. A constitutively active Gq alpha subunit tagged with the TAT HIV protein sequence was introduced into an immortalized podocyte cell line by protein transduction. This stimulated inositol trisphosphate production, activated an nuclear factor of activated T cells-responsive reporter construct, and enhanced levels of both COX2 mRNA and protein compared with cells treated with a Gq protein lacking the TAT sequence. Induction of COX2 was associated with increased prostaglandin E(2) production and podocyte death, both of which were attenuated by selective COX2 inhibition. In vivo, levels of COX2 mRNA and protein were significantly enhanced in podocytes from transgenic mice that expressed podocyte-targeted constitutively active Gqalpha compared with nontransgenic littermates. These data suggest that Gq-dependent signaling cascades stimulate calcineurin and, in turn, upregulate COX2 mRNA and protein, increase eicosanoid production, and cause podocyte injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review examines new literature published in 2006 and 2007 on steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. RECENT FINDINGS Steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome has long been thought to be due to lymphocyte-derived circulating factors leading to podocyte injury with subsequent proteinuria. New studies support this mechanism and implicate the T helper 2 cytokine IL-13. In addition a genetic mutation in familial nephrotic syndrome has been reported in a child, who responded to corticosteroid therapy. There are new clinical trial data supporting the efficacy of levamisole in steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome and preliminary trial data on mycophenolate mofetil supporting its efficacy as a steroid-sparing agent. Case reports support the use of the B cell-depleting antibody rituximab in steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Finally there is a meta-analysis of six studies suggesting an increase in the incidence of focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis in steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome over the last 20 years. SUMMARY Progress has been made towards elucidating the cause of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Data from adequately powered randomized controlled trials are still required to evaluate therapies for frequently relapsing and steroid-dependent steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome.
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Hypertension in children with chronic kidney disease: pathophysiology and management. Pediatr Nephrol 2008; 23:363-71. [PMID: 17990006 PMCID: PMC2214827 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-007-0643-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2007] [Revised: 08/29/2007] [Accepted: 09/11/2007] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Arterial hypertension is very common in children with all stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). While fluid overload and activation of the renin-angiotensin system have long been recognized as crucial pathophysiological pathways, sympathetic hyperactivation, endothelial dysfunction and chronic hyperparathyroidism have more recently been identified as important factors contributing to CKD-associated hypertension. Moreover, several drugs commonly administered in CKD, such as erythropoietin, glucocorticoids and cyclosporine A, independently raise blood pressure in a dose-dependent fashion. Because of the deleterious consequences of hypertension on the progression of renal disease and cardiovascular outcomes, an active screening approach should be adapted in patients with all stages of CKD. Before one starts antihypertensive treatment, non-pharmacological options should be explored. In hemodialysis patients a low salt diet, low dialysate sodium and stricter dialysis towards dry weight can often achieve adequate blood pressure control. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are first-line therapy for patients with proteinuria, due to their additional anti-proteinuric properties. Diuretics are a useful alternative for non-proteinuric patients or as an add-on to renin-angiotensin system blockade. Multiple drug therapy is often needed to maintain blood pressure below the 90th percentile target, but adequate blood pressure control is essential for better renal and cardiovascular long-term outcomes.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Eighty to 90% of children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) have relapses. About half relapse frequently and are at risk of the adverse effects of corticosteroids. Non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive agents are used to prolong periods of remission in these children, however these agents have significant potential adverse effects. Currently there is no consensus as to the most appropriate second line agent in children who are steroid sensitive, but who continue to relapse. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the benefits and harms of non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive agents in relapsing SSNS in children. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, reference lists, conference abstracts and contact with known investigators. Search date: September 2007 SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs were included if they compared non-corticosteroid agents with placebo, prednisone or no treatment, different doses and/or durations of the same non-corticosteroid agent, different non-corticosteroid agents. 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 relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). MAIN RESULTS We identified 26 studies (1173 children). Cyclophosphamide (RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.73) and chlorambucil (RR 0.15, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.95) significantly reduced the relapse risk at six to twelve months compared with prednisone alone. There was no difference in relapse risk at two years between chlorambucil and cyclophosphamide (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.13). There was no difference at one year between intravenous and oral cyclophosphamide (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.29). Cyclosporin was as effective as cyclophosphamide (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.48 to 2.35) and chlorambucil (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.53) and levamisole (RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.68) was more effective than steroids alone but the effects were not sustained once treatment was stopped. There was no difference in the risk for relapse between mycophenolate mofetil and cyclosporin (RR 5.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 36.66) but CI were large. Mizoribine and azathioprine were no more effective than placebo or prednisone alone in maintaining remission. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Eight week courses of cyclophosphamide or chlorambucil and prolonged courses of cyclosporin and levamisole reduce the risk of relapse in children with relapsing SSNS compared with corticosteroids alone. Clinically important differences in efficacy are possible and further comparative studies are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Hodson
- Children's Hospital at Westmead, Centre for Kidney Research, Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, NSW, Australia, 2145.
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Westhoff TH, van der Giet M. Tacrolimus in the treatment of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2007; 16:1099-110. [PMID: 17594193 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.16.7.1099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The immunosuppressant tacrolimus (FK-506) is a calcineurin inhibitor with a widespread use for the prevention of graft rejection in transplantation medicine. Tacrolimus inhibits the activation of an essential transcription factor for the transcription of cytokine genes in T cells leading to a decreased production of cytokines such as IL-2 and IFN-gamma. As T-cell activation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory glomerular diseases, there is an increasing number of reports on the use of tacrolimus in nephrotic syndrome. In idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, corticosteroid treatment constitutes the first-line therapy to achieve remission. In the case of steroid resistance or steroid dependence, alternative immunosuppressive strategies are needed. Cyclophosphamide and ciclosporin are well-established drugs in this condition. The present article reviews the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, safety and clinical efficacy of tacrolimus in steroid-resistant and steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timm H Westhoff
- Charité--Campus Benjamin Franklin, Centrum 10--Nephrology, Hindenburgdamm 30, Berlin, Germany.
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