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He WJ, Wang J, Liu N, Li GY, Zhu XW, Yao L, Liu LL. The efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine versus leflunomide in patients with IgA nephropathy: a single-center experience. J Nephrol 2024; 37:933-940. [PMID: 38225440 PMCID: PMC11239748 DOI: 10.1007/s40620-023-01839-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To date, our understanding of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) pathophysiology has remained incomplete; therefore, treatment remains largely empiric, and the efficacy and safety of immunosuppressants remain controversial. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine and leflunomide therapy in a retrospective cohort of patients with IgAN. METHODS We screened the IgAN registration database in our department, and a total of 159 kidney patients with biopsy-confirmed IgAN were enrolled, with 57 patients receiving hydroxychloroquine plus a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (hydroxychloroquine group), 52 patients receiving leflunomide plus a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (leflunomide group), and 50 patients receiving only a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (renin-angiotensin system inhibitor-only group). Changes in proteinuria, hematuria, and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), as well as adverse events, were analyzed during the follow-up period. RESULTS At the end of 6-month follow-up, proteinuria significantly decreased by 70.36 (57.54, 79.33)%, 57.29 (46.79, 67.29)% and 41.20 (25.76, 48.94)% in the hydroxychloroquine, leflunomide and renin-angiotensin system inhibitor-only groups, respectively, compared to baseline (all P values < 0.001). Hematuria significantly decreased by 71.07 (56.48, 82.47)% in the leflunomide group (P < 0.001). The eGFR improved by 3.72 ± 2.97%, 3.16 ± 2.00% and 1.91 ± 2.41%, respectively, in the hydroxychloroquine, leflunomide and renin-angiotensin system inhibitor-only groups, but without statistical significance. No serious adverse events occurred during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION Both hydroxychloroquine combined with a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor and leflunomide combined with a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor were more effective than a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor alone in improving proteinuria in IgAN patients. Hydroxychloroquine was more effective in reducing proteinuria, and leflunomide showed superiority in reducing hematuria. Our results need to be verified in large-scale randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Jie He
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nan Jing North Street, He Ping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nan Jing North Street, He Ping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nan Jing North Street, He Ping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Gu-Yue Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Xin-Wang Zhu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nan Jing North Street, He Ping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Li Yao
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nan Jing North Street, He Ping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Lin-Lin Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nan Jing North Street, He Ping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
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Zhang D, Xia B, Zhang X, Liang P, Hu X. Efficacy and safety of low-dose corticosteroids combined with leflunomide for progressive IgA nephropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Urol 2024; 24:56. [PMID: 38468247 PMCID: PMC10926645 DOI: 10.1186/s12894-024-01438-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The effectiveness of immunosuppressive and corticosteroid treatments for Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN) remains thoroughly evaluated. We undertook a meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of low-dose corticosteroids plus leflunomide for progressive IgA nephropathy. METHODS Eligible studies were obtained from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. We also searched the references of the included studies. Our protocol followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Eligibility criteria were defined using a PICOS framework. RESULTS Our study included three articles presenting 342 patient cases. Findings revealed that low-dose corticosteroids combined with the leflunomide group were effective in relieving urine protein excretion (UPE) [mean difference (MD) = -0.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.41 to -0.30, P < 0.00001] compared with the full-dose corticosteroids group. Regarding serum creatinine (SCr), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), complete remission rate, and overall response rate, there was no difference between the groups (p > 0.05). Regarding safety, low-dose corticosteroids combined with leflunomide significantly reduced the risk of serious adverse events [odds ratio (OR): 0.11, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.91, P = 0.04]. Besides, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in the incidence of respiratory infection, abnormal liver function, diarrhea, herpes zoster, alopecia, pruritus, insomnia, pneumonia, diabetes, and urinary tract infection (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Low-dose corticosteroids combined with leflunomide are a safe and effective treatment for progressive IgA nephropathy. TRIAL REGISTRATION The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42022361883.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxu Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Urology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Xia
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Urology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Urology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Pu Liang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100015, P.R. China.
| | - Xiaopeng Hu
- Department of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Institute of Urology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Lv G, Ming C. Efficacy and safety of leflunomide combined with corticosteroids for the treatment of IgA nephropathy: a Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Ren Fail 2022; 44:1011-1025. [PMID: 35786300 PMCID: PMC9262374 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2022.2085576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of leflunomide combined with corticosteroids, compared with corticosteroids alone, for IgA nephropathy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Studies were retrieved by searching of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane's Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang databases on 11 October 2021. A random-effect model incorporating the heterogeneity was used to pool the results. The efficacy outcomes included the complete remission rate of proteinuria, overall response rate (the combined rates of patients with complete and partial remission of proteinuria), changes of urine protein excretion (UPE), serum creatinine (SCr), and estimated glomerular infiltrating rate (eGFR). RESULTS Nineteen studies were included. Patients receiving the combined therapy had a higher complete remission rate (relative risk [RR]: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.08-1.55, p = 0.006; I2 = 0%) and overall response rate (RR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.10-1.26, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%) compared to patients who received CS alone. Besides, combined therapy was associated with significantly reduced levels of UPE (mean difference [MD]: -0.30 g/24h, 95% CI: -0.43 to -0.16, p < 0.001; I2 = 34%) and SCr (MD: -7.55 mmol/L, 95% CI: -11.06 to -4.04, p < 0.001; I2 = 34%), and increased level of eGFR (MD: 6.51 mL/min/1.73 m2, 95% CI: 4.06-8.97, p < 0.001; I2 = 0%). The incidence of adverse events was not significantly different. CONCLUSIONS Combined treatment with leflunomide and corticosteroids was more effective than corticosteroids alone for patients with IgA nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxin Lv
- Key Laboratory of Microecology-immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Chengyuan Ming
- Department of Urology, Jiamusi Central Hospital, Jiamusi, China
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Li Y, Xiong Y, Huang T, Liu X, Xu G. Clinical efficacy and safety of full-dose versus half-dose corticosteroids plus leflunomide for IgA nephropathy. BMC Nephrol 2021; 22:364. [PMID: 34736419 PMCID: PMC8567572 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-021-02555-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The results of leflunomide (LEF) in patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN) were inconsistent. METHODS A total of 149 kidney biopsy-confirmed IgAN patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 and protein excretion levels ≥0.75 g/d were enrolled, with 65 subjects receiving half-dose CS plus LEF (LEF group), and the 84 counterpart patients accepting full-dose corticosteroid (Full CS group). The primary outcomes included the complete remission (CR) rates and incidence of adverse events (AEs). The secondary outcomes were the overall remission (OR) rates and a combined event (eGFR reduced ≥30%, end-stage renal disease [ESRD], hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or kidney transplantation). RESULTS During the 18 months of follow-up, the CR rates were 72 and 64% in the LEF and Full CS groups (P = 0.299), respectively. The proportion of patients with OR rates in the LEF group and Full CS group was 89% versus 75%, respectively (P = 0.027). Serious AEs were observed only in the Full CS group (P = 0.017). The incidences of total AEs (P = 0.036) and infections (P = 0.024) were lower in the LEF group than in the Full CS group. CONCLUSIONS LEF combined with half-dose CS is superior to full-dose CS in the treatment of IgAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yebei Li
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1, Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yi Xiong
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1, Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. China
| | - Tianlun Huang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1, Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1, Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. China
| | - Gaosi Xu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1, Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, P.R. China.
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Ni Z, Zhang Z, Yu Z, Lu F, Mei C, Ding X, Yuan W, Zhang W, Jiang G, Sun M, He L, Deng Y, Pang H, Qian J. Leflunomide plus low-dose prednisone in patients with progressive IgA nephropathy: a multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-labeled, and controlled trial. Ren Fail 2021; 43:1214-1221. [PMID: 34396911 PMCID: PMC8381933 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2021.1963775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common cause of glomerulonephritis worldwide, and the optimal approach to its treatment remains a significant challenge. Methods We did a prospective, randomized, open-labeled, multicenter, controlled trial, comprised of 3-month run-in, 12-month treatment, and 12-month follow-up phases. After 3-month run-in phase, patients with biopsy-confirmed IgAN at risk of progression were randomly allocated to LEF plus low-dose prednisone (LEF + prednisone group) or conventionally accepted-dose prednisone [prednisone(alone) group] Our primary outcome was 24-h urine protein excretion (UPE) and secondary outcomes were serum albumin (sALB), serum creatinine (Scr), and eGFR. Safety was evaluated in all patients who received the trial medications. Results One hundred and eight patients [59 in LEF + prednisone group, 49 in prednisone (alone) group]were enrolled and finished their treatment and follow-up periods. There is no significant difference in the baseline level between the two groups. Compared with baseline, both groups showed a significant decrease in 24-h UPE (p < 0.01) and increase in sALB (p < 0.01), with stable Scr and eGFR throughout the 12-month treatment period. What’s more, these effects were sustained through the 12-month follow-up period. However, there was no difference in 24-h UPE, sALB, Scr, and eGFR between the two groups (p > 0.05). At 12 months, a difference in overall response rate, relapsing rate, and incidence of adverse events between the two groups was not significant. Conclusions The efficacy and safety of LEF plus low-dose prednisone and conventionally accepted-dose prednisone in the treatment of progressive IgAN are comparable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Ni
- Department of Nephrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zanzhe Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuming Lu
- Department of Nephrology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Changlin Mei
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Ding
- Department of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijie Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gengru Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Sun
- Department of Nephrology, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liqun He
- Department of Nephrology, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueyi Deng
- Department of Nephrology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huihua Pang
- Department of Nephrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaqi Qian
- Department of Nephrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Glassock RJ. IgA Nephropathy: "The Times They Are a-Changin". GLOMERULAR DISEASES 2021; 2:4-14. [PMID: 36751269 PMCID: PMC9677731 DOI: 10.1159/000515199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Primary IgA Nephropathy (IgA N) is a very common and often progressive glomerular disease. At present, the diagnosis of IgA N is totally dependent on kidney biopsy, but the prospect for a future diagnosis by means of a "liquid" biopsy is promising. A great deal is now understood regarding its diverse clinical and pathological features as well as its epidemiology, genetics, prognosis, and pathogenesis. Treatment approaches are now on increasingly solid evidence-based grounds, but many uncertainties continue to be devil the field. Better means of categorization of patients into a hierarchy of progression risk at the time of diagnosis will undoubtedly refine and personalize treatment decisions. Summary The panorama of treatment strategies is undergoing a rapid transformation, largely due to an increase in large randomized clinical trials testing available agents and novel therapeutic classes. It is anticipated that the combination of better prognostic tools and new strategies for treatment of IgA N will alter the landscape of therapeutic algorithms for patients with IgA N. Key Messages This review seeks to describe some of the evolutionary changes in the approach to treatment of IgA N, to place them in the context of current management, and to identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed.
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Liu T, Wang Y, Mao H, Yang L, Zhan Y. Efficacy and safety of immunosuppressive therapies in the treatment of high-risk IgA nephropathy: A network meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e24541. [PMID: 33663060 PMCID: PMC7909110 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000024541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is one of the significant contributing factors of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It is reported that over half of patients with IgAN accompany multiple high-risk factors, which increase the risk of ESRD progression. Studies have shown that immunosuppressive agents were beneficial in high-risk IgAN, but the efficacy and safety have not been fully demonstrated yet. The present study aims to elucidate the efficacy of commonly used immunosuppressants in high-risk IgAN and their relative safety profiles via a network meta-analysis strategy. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) eligible for this network meta-analysis were included to evaluate the efficacy and safety of different immunosuppressants for high-risk IgAN. Main outcomes and measures include incidence of renal composite end point, the rate of total remission, adverse events, and proteinuria. Besides, subgroup analysis and cluster analysis were carried out. RESULTS This network meta-analysis of 37 RCTs involving 3012 participants found that Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) combined with corticosteroids (CS) was superior to other interventions in end point events and proteinuria. Cyclosporine A (CsA) plus CS was the best option for clinical remission rate, and supportive care (SC) was the safest treatment. Cluster analysis showed that MMF+CS and Leflunomide (LEF)+CS were best protocols in efficacy and safety. Subgroup analysis indicated the best benefits of MMF were presented among the Asian population, and the benefits increased with the increase of follow-up duration. The effect of Cyclophosphamide (CTX) +CS on crescent IgAN was better than that of other risk factors. Moreover, the increasing follow-up duration was negatively associated with the effect. CONCLUSIONS MMF+CS and LEF+CS appear to serve as the best choice for treating high-risk IgAN than other immunosuppressive therapies.
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Natale P, Palmer SC, Ruospo M, Saglimbene VM, Craig JC, Vecchio M, Samuels JA, Molony DA, Schena FP, Strippoli GFM. Immunosuppressive agents for treating IgA nephropathy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 3:CD003965. [PMID: 32162319 PMCID: PMC7066485 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003965.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND IgA nephropathy is the most common glomerulonephritis world-wide. IgA nephropathy causes end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in 15% to 20% of affected patients within 10 years and in 30% to 40% of patients within 20 years from the onset of disease. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2003 and updated in 2015. OBJECTIVES To determine the benefits and harms of immunosuppression strategies for the treatment of IgA nephropathy. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 9 September 2019 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of treatment for IgA nephropathy in adults and children and that compared immunosuppressive agents with placebo, no treatment, or other immunosuppressive or non-immunosuppressive agents. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed study risk of bias and extracted data. Estimates of treatment effect were summarised using random effects meta-analysis. Treatment effects were expressed as relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference (MD) and 95% CI for continuous outcomes. Risks of bias were assessed using the Cochrane tool. Evidence certainty was evaluated using GRADE methodology. MAIN RESULTS Fifty-eight studies involving 3933 randomised participants were included. Six studies involving children were eligible. Disease characteristics (kidney function and level of proteinuria) were heterogeneous across studies. Studies evaluating steroid therapy generally included patients with protein excretion of 1 g/day or more. Risk of bias within the included studies was generally high or unclear for many of the assessed methodological domains. In patients with IgA nephropathy and proteinuria > 1 g/day, steroid therapy given for generally two to four months with a tapering course probably prevents the progression to ESKD compared to placebo or standard care (8 studies; 741 participants: RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.65; moderate certainty evidence). Steroid therapy may induce complete remission (4 studies, 305 participants: RR 1.76, 95% CI 1.03 to 3.01; low certainty evidence), prevent doubling of serum creatinine (SCr) (7 studies, 404 participants: RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.65; low certainty evidence), and may lower urinary protein excretion (10 studies, 705 participants: MD -0.58 g/24 h, 95% CI -0.84 to -0.33;low certainty evidence). Steroid therapy had uncertain effects on glomerular filtration rate (GFR), death, infection and malignancy. The risk of adverse events with steroid therapy was uncertain due to heterogeneity in the type of steroid treatment used and the rarity of events. Cytotoxic agents (azathioprine (AZA) or cyclophosphamide (CPA) alone or with concomitant steroid therapy had uncertain effects on ESKD (7 studies, 463 participants: RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.20; low certainty evidence), complete remission (5 studies; 381 participants: RR 1.47, 95% CI 0.94 to 2.30; very low certainty evidence), GFR (any measure), and protein excretion. Doubling of serum creatinine was not reported. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) had uncertain effects on the progression to ESKD, complete remission, doubling of SCr, GFR, protein excretion, infection, and malignancy. Death was not reported. Calcineurin inhibitors compared with placebo or standard care had uncertain effects on complete remission, SCr, GFR, protein excretion, infection, and malignancy. ESKD and death were not reported. Mizoribine administered with renin-angiotensin system inhibitor treatment had uncertain effects on progression to ESKD, complete remission, GFR, protein excretion, infection, and malignancy. Death and SCr were not reported. Leflunomide followed by a tapering course with oral prednisone compared to prednisone had uncertain effects on the progression to ESKD, complete remission, doubling of SCr, GFR, protein excretion, and infection. Death and malignancy were not reported. Effects of other immunosuppressive regimens (including steroid plus non-immunosuppressive agents or mTOR inhibitors) were inconclusive primarily due to insufficient data from the individual studies in low or very low certainty evidence. The effects of treatments on death, malignancy, reduction in GFR at least of 25% and adverse events were very uncertain. Subgroup analyses to determine the impact of specific patient characteristics such as ethnicity or disease severity on treatment effectiveness were not possible. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In moderate certainty evidence, corticosteroid therapy probably prevents decline in GFR or doubling of SCr in adults and children with IgA nephropathy and proteinuria. Evidence for treatment effects of immunosuppressive agents on death, infection, and malignancy is generally sparse or low-quality. Steroid therapy has uncertain adverse effects due to a paucity of studies. Available studies are few, small, have high risk of bias and generally do not systematically identify treatment-related harms. Subgroup analyses to identify specific patient characteristics that might predict better response to therapy were not possible due to a lack of studies. There is no evidence that other immunosuppressive agents including CPA, AZA, or MMF improve clinical outcomes in IgA nephropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Natale
- University of BariDepartment of Emergency and Organ TransplantationBariItaly
- The University of SydneySydney School of Public HealthSydneyAustralia
| | - Suetonia C Palmer
- University of Otago ChristchurchDepartment of Medicine2 Riccarton AvePO Box 4345ChristchurchNew Zealand8140
| | - Marinella Ruospo
- University of BariDepartment of Emergency and Organ TransplantationBariItaly
- The University of SydneySydney School of Public HealthSydneyAustralia
| | - Valeria M Saglimbene
- University of BariDepartment of Emergency and Organ TransplantationBariItaly
- The University of SydneySydney School of Public HealthSydneyAustralia
| | - Jonathan C Craig
- The Children's Hospital at WestmeadCochrane Kidney and Transplant, Centre for Kidney ResearchWestmeadNSWAustralia2145
- Flinders UniversityCollege of Medicine and Public HealthAdelaideSAAustralia5001
| | | | - Joshua A Samuels
- UT‐Houston Health Science CenterDivision of Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension6431 Fannin Street, MSB 3‐121HoustonTXUSA77030
| | - Donald A Molony
- UT‐Houston Health Science CenterInternal MedicineDivision of Renal Diseases and Hypertension64312 Fannin StHoustonTXUSA77030
| | | | - Giovanni FM Strippoli
- University of BariDepartment of Emergency and Organ TransplantationBariItaly
- The University of SydneySydney School of Public HealthSydneyAustralia
- The Children's Hospital at WestmeadCochrane Kidney and Transplant, Centre for Kidney ResearchWestmeadNSWAustralia2145
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Yi J, He Z, Xu S, Feng S. Efficacy and safety of leflunomide in IgA nephropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Urol Nephrol 2019; 51:1987-1998. [PMID: 31515666 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-019-02255-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal therapy for immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) remains uncertain. Leflunomide (LEF) is an immunosuppressive drug which may reduce deposition of glomerular autoantibodies and immune complexes. Several clinical trials were designed to evaluate the efficacy of LEF, but their results were controversial. METHODS Ovid Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and CNKI were systematically searched. Search terms included ("glomerulonephritis" OR "nephritis") AND ("immunoglobulin A" OR "IgA") AND "leflunomide". Studies in which patients were diagnosed with IgAN based on renal biopsy were included. Studies needed to report clinical outcomes via either short- or long-term clinical examination, remission rate, or complication rate. RESULTS Forty-four studies encompassing 1802 patients were included, of which 35 were randomized controlled trials. Results of 24 h post-treatment urine protein tests and serum creatinine tests were significantly lower in patients treat with LEF and corticosteroids (CS) or valsartan (ACEI) (CS + LEF or CS + ACEI) compared with patients treated with CS or ACEI alone (P < 0.05). More patients treated with CS + LEF (31.2%) achieved complete remission (CR) than patients treated with CS alone (22.2%) (RR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.59-0.85, P < 0.05). Although there was no significant difference in CR between patients treated with cyclophosphamide and CS (CS + CTX) and those treated with CS + LEF, the complication rate in the former group was higher (28.4%) than in the latter one (11.4%) (RR = 2.46, 95% CI 1.47-4.13, P < 0.005). CONCLUSION LEF appears to improve renal function while decreasing loss of urine protein. Combination regimens including LEF were better and safer compared with CS or ACEI alone or combinations including CTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Yi
- Department of Nephrology, The People's Hospital of Yichun City, 88 Zhongsha West Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Zhihong He
- Department of Nephrology, The People's Hospital of Yichun City, 88 Zhongsha West Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shizhang Xu
- Department of Nephrology, The People's Hospital of Yichun City, 88 Zhongsha West Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Si Feng
- Department of Nephrology, The People's Hospital of Yichun City, 88 Zhongsha West Road, Yuanzhou District, Yichun, Jiangxi Province, China
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Rauen T, Fitzner C, Eitner F, Sommerer C, Zeier M, Otte B, Panzer U, Peters H, Benck U, Mertens PR, Kuhlmann U, Witzke O, Gross O, Vielhauer V, Mann JFE, Hilgers RD, Floege J. Effects of Two Immunosuppressive Treatment Protocols for IgA Nephropathy. J Am Soc Nephrol 2017; 29:317-325. [PMID: 29042456 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2017060713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of immunosuppression in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is controversial. In the Supportive Versus Immunosuppressive Therapy for the Treatment of Progressive IgA Nephropathy (STOP-IgAN) Trial, 162 patients with IgAN and proteinuria >0.75 g/d after 6 months of optimized supportive care were randomized into two groups: continued supportive care or additional immunosuppression (GFR≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m2: 6-month corticosteroid monotherapy; GFR=30-59 ml/min per 1.73 m2: cyclophosphamide for 3 months followed by azathioprine plus oral prednisolone). Coprimary end points were full clinical remission and GFR loss ≥15 ml/min per 1.73 m2 during the 3-year trial phase. In this secondary intention to treat analysis, we separately analyzed data from each immunosuppression subgroup and the corresponding patients on supportive care. Full clinical remission occurred in 11 (20%) patients receiving corticosteroid monotherapy and three (6%) patients on supportive care (odds ratio, 5.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.07 to 26.36; P=0.02), but the rate did not differ between patients receiving immunosuppressive combination and controls on supportive care (11% versus 4%, respectively; P=0.30). The end point of GFR loss ≥15 ml/min per 1.73 m2 did not differ between groups. Only corticosteroid monotherapy transiently reduced proteinuria at 12 months. Severe infections, impaired glucose tolerance, and/or weight gain in the first year were more frequent with either immunosuppressive regimen than with supportive care. In conclusion, only corticosteroid monotherapy induced disease remission in a minority of patients who had IgAN with relatively well preserved GFR and persistent proteinuria. Neither immunosuppressive regimen prevented GFR loss, and both associated with substantial adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Rauen
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology and
| | - Christina Fitzner
- Department of Medical Statistics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Eitner
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology and.,Kidney Diseases Research, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Claudia Sommerer
- Department of Nephrology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Zeier
- Department of Nephrology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Britta Otte
- Internal Medicine D, Department of Nephrology, Hypertension and Rheumatology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ulf Panzer
- Medical Clinic, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Harm Peters
- Department of Nephrology and Intensive Care and.,Dieter Scheffner Center for Medical Education, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité-Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Urs Benck
- Department of Medicine V, University Medical Center Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peter R Mertens
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Uwe Kuhlmann
- Medical Clinic III, Central Hospital Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Oliver Witzke
- Departments of Infectious Diseases and.,Nephrology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Oliver Gross
- Clinic for Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Volker Vielhauer
- Nephrologisches Zentrum, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Ludwig Maximilians Universität, Munich, Germany; and
| | - Johannes F E Mann
- Department of Nephrology, Hypertension and Rheumatology, Munich General Hospitals, Munich, Germany
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