Retrospective analysis of a novel regimen for the prevention of venous thromboembolism in nephrotic syndrome

Direct oral anticoagulants versus warfarin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in nephrotic syndrome patients: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Anticoagulants are widely used in the prevention of VTE in NS patients. The use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) has not been studied intensively in NS patients. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy and safety of DOACs compared to warfarin for prophylactic anticoagulation in patients with nephrotic syndrome.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis conducted in a tertiary hospital-based ambulatory anticoagulation clinic between 01/07/2016 and 29/11/2021. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of VTE, major bleeding, and non-major bleeding in both the DOACs and warfarin groups.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients were recruited, 31 patients were prescribed warfarin (54.4%), and 26 were on DOAC (45.6%). Two patients in the DOAC group developed VTE, while no subjects in the warfarin group developed VTE, however, the difference was not statistically significance (p = 0.2). Nine out of 31 patients in the warfarin group developed non-major bleeding compared to three patients in the DOAC group (p = 0.02). One patient developed major bleeding in each group DOAC group 1 (15.4%), warfarin 1 (12.9%) (p = 1.00). There was no statistically significant difference in major bleeding between DOAC and warfarin groups (p = 1.00).

CONCLUSION

In patients with NS, preliminary evidence suggests that DOACs have comparable efficacy as compared to warfarin when used as prophylaxis. Additionally, DOACs result in lower incidences of non-major bleeding. However, further studies are indicated to confirm the superiority of DOACs over warfarin.

Endovascular treatment of lower limb acute DVT: current trends and future directions

AIM OF THE STUDY: This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and comparative outcomes of endovascular treatments for acute lower limb deep vein thrombosis (DVT), including catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT), pharmacomechanical thrombectomy (PMT), mechanical thrombectomy, and venous stenting, drawing insights from a diverse range of studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive literature search identified 33 relevant studies, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, systematic reviews, and case reports. Data extraction focused on study design, intervention type, outcome measures, and follow-up duration.

RESULTS

Catheter-directed thrombolysis demonstrates promising results in enhancing venous patency and reducing post-thrombotic syndrome, with careful patient selection being crucial. Pharmacomechanical and mechanical thrombectomy devices offer immediate and long-term benefits, emphasizing individualized patient care. Venous stenting serves as a crucial adjunctive therapy, particularly in cases of residual venous obstruction, though further research is needed for optimal patient selection and long-term outcomes. Timing and selection of endovascular interventions remain critical considerations, necessitating multidisciplinary approaches and ongoing research.

CONCLUSION

This review provides valuable insights for clinicians and researchers, guiding evidence-based decision-making and shaping future research directions in the dynamic field of endovascular interventions for acute lower limb DVT.

Multifaceted Heparin: Diverse Applications beyond Anticoagulant Therapy

Heparin, a naturally occurring polysaccharide, has fascinated researchers and clinicians for nearly a century due to its versatile biological properties and has been used for various therapeutic purposes. Discovered in the early 20th century, heparin has been a key therapeutic anticoagulant ever since, and its use is now implemented as a life-saving pharmacological intervention in the management of thrombotic disorders and beyond. In addition to its known anticoagulant properties, heparin has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-tumorigenic activities, which may lead to its widespread use in the future as an essential drug against infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and in various medical treatments. Furthermore, recent advancements in nanotechnology, including nano-drug delivery systems and nanomaterials, have significantly enhanced the intrinsic biofunctionalities of heparin. These breakthroughs have paved the way for innovative applications in medicine and therapy, expanding the potential of heparin research. Therefore, this review aims to provide a creation profile of heparin, space for its utilities in therapeutic complications, and future characteristics such as bioengineering and nanotechnology. It also discusses the challenges and opportunities in realizing the full potential of heparin to improve patient outcomes and elevate therapeutic interventions.

Rivaroxaban for Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Patients with Nephrotic Syndrome: A Single-Arm, Prospective Study

Introduction

Thromboembolism is a recognized complication of nephrotic syndrome (NS). Evidence supporting the use of rivaroxaban to prevent NS-related thrombosis is limited and controversial. This study aimed to explore the impact of NS on rivaroxaban pharmacokinetics and to collect observational data on the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban as primary thromboprophylaxis in patients with NS.

Methods

This prospective study analyzed 141 patients with NS who received rivaroxaban (10 mg/day) for thromboprophylaxis. High-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to measure the trough and peak plasma concentrations (Ctrough and Cmax) of rivaroxaban. The influence of clinical and genetic factors on these concentrations was examined using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The median Cmax and Ctrough were 68.5 ng/mL (interquartile range [IQR], 31.7-105.5 ng/mL) and 4.4 ng/mL (IQR, 1.2-11.9 ng/mL), respectively. The incidence of thromboembolic events (TEs) was 12.8%, while that of bleeding events was 14.2%, although all were classified as minor. Albumin level was the most significant factor affecting Cmax (ρ = 0.55; p < 0.001) and was also significantly associated with TEs (0.81; 0.71-0.91 per 1.0 g/dL increase; p = 0.001) and bleeding risks (1.11; 1.03-1.19 per 1.0 g/dL increase; p = 0.008). Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the ABCB1 gene significantly influenced Ctrough but were not associated with clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Hypoalbuminemia significantly affects the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban in NS patients. A dose-adjustment strategy based on rivaroxaban concentrations, accounting for variable albumin levels, may improve the safety and efficacy of thromboprophylaxis in this population.

Membranous nephropathy treatment standard

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is characterized by deposition of immune complexes leading to thickening of glomerular basement membranes. Over time, the understanding of MN has evolved, with the identification of specific autoantibodies against novel podocyte antigens and the unraveling of intricate pathogenic pathways. Although the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab is favored as part of the initial therapy in MN, a subgroup of MN patients may be resistant to rituximab necessitating the use of alternative agents such as cytotoxic therapies. In addition, newer agents such as novel anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, therapies targeting the CD38-positive plasma cells and anti-complement therapy are being studied in patients who are resistant to traditional treatment strategies. This manuscript furnishes a review of the novel developments in the pathophysiology of MN including the identification of target antigens and current treatment standards for MN, concentrating on evidenced-based interventions designed to attain remission and to prevent disease progression.

Urokinase prophylactic anticoagulation in children with nephrotic syndrome: a multicenter retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the clinical effect of urokinase on the prevention of thrombosis in children with primary nephrotic syndrome.

METHODS

A total of 370 children diagnosed with primary nephrotic syndrome (PNS) in the Children's Hospital of Soochow University and Zibo Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2018 to December 2022 were selected as the research objects. The patients were divided into a urokinase adjuvant therapy group and non-urokinase adjuvant therapy group according to the application of drugs. The clinical data of the children were collected, including sex, age, drug application, bleeding during treatment, and telephone follow-up, to record whether thromboembolism occurred in the acute stage and remission stage. The clinical pattern of PNS, renal biopsy, histopathological type, and related laboratory indexes before and after treatment were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 313 patients were treated with urokinase and 57 patients were not. More thrombotic events was observed in non-urokinase group compared to the urokinase group(2 versus 0 episodes, p = 0.02). The thrombotic events observed included one patient had pulmonary embolism combined with right ventricular thrombosis, and another had intracranial venous thrombosis. More minor bleeding events occurred in urokinase group compared to the non-urokinase group(7 versus 1 episodes, p = 1.0). No major bleeding events occurred in either group.

CONCLUSION

The rational prophylactic use of urokinase anticoagulation in children with PNS can prevent the formation of thromboembolism and has good safety.

Efficacy and safety of prophylactic anticoagulation in patients with primary nephrotic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is associated with an increased incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE), approximately 10%. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic anticoagulation in patients with NS.

METHODS

Studies evaluating prophylactic anticoagulation in NS were identified by an electronic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases until December 2021. Weighted mean proportion and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of thromboembolic and haemorrhagic events were calculated using a fixed-effects and a random-effects model. The differences in the outcomes among groups were estimated as pooled odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% CI. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 statistic.

RESULTS

Five cohort studies, for a total of 414 adult patients, were included. Only two studies had a control group. The weighted mean incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis in patients who received VTE prophylaxis was 1.8% (95% CI: 0.6-3.5%; I2 : 4.4%) and 0.9% (95% CI: 0.2-2.2%; I2 : 43.4%) respectively. The weighted mean incidence of major bleeding in patients who received VTE prophylaxis was 2.3% (95% CI: 1-4.2%; I2 : 25.4%). Patients with NS that received VTE prophylaxis had a non-significant reduced risk of PE (OR: 0.63 (95% CI: 0.03-14.8; I2 : 64.4%)) and an increased risk of major bleeding (OR: 2.08 (95% CI: 0.41-10.45; I2 : 0%)) compared to patients with NS that did not receive VTE prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that prophylactic anticoagulation in adult patients with primary NS may reduce the risk of VTE, even if it may be associated with a not negligible bleeding risk.

Thromboembolism in nephrotic syndrome: controversies and uncertainties

Thromboembolism is one of the most serious complications of nephrotic syndrome, including both arterial and venous thromboembolic events. Rates of thromboembolism depend on a multitude of factors, including the severity and cause of nephrotic syndrome, with primary membranous nephropathy having the highest reported rates. In relation to arterial thromboembolism, the risk can be as high as 8 times that of an age- and sex-matched population. However, extrapolating risks is challenging, with published studies not being homogeneous, several being single center and retrospective, and including different causes of primary nephrotic syndrome. Determining thromboembolic risk in nephrotic syndrome is essential to enable decision making on preventive strategies. However, lack of proven strategies to help estimate risk-benefit aspects underpins variations in clinical practice. Although the use of anticoagulation following a thrombotic event is clear, this still leaves us with a clinical dilemma as to if, and who, should receive prophylactic anticoagulation, with what agent, and for how long. In the absence of clear evidence to answer these questions, prophylactic anticoagulation strategies for nephrotic syndrome currently rely on expert consensus opinion, such as in the recently published 2021 Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes glomerular disease guidelines. In the mainstay, these recommendations relate to patients with membranous nephropathy. Here, we detail the current controversies still faced by clinicians around the risk of thromboembolism in nephrotic syndrome, use of prophylactic anticoagulation in nephrotic syndrome and propose ways of advancing existing knowledge and practice in this field to unravel the conundrum.

[General recommendations for the management of glomerular diseases-2023]

Glomerular diseases are associated with extrarenal complications, such as thromboembolism, cardiovascular events and particularly infections. A thorough knowledge of the various immunosuppressants and their associated toxicity profile is therefore of great importance. While nephrologists usually have extensive experience with calcineurin inhibitors and antimetabolites, two other compounds (rituximab, in severe cases cyclophosphamide) are used comparatively infrequently and will be discussed in more detail. Moreover, practical recommendations for the prevention of thromboembolism in states of nephrosis and for the prophylaxis of Pneumcystic jirovecii pneumonia are provided.

Proteomics of Plasma and Plasma-Treated Podocytes: Application to Focal and Segmental Glomerulosclerosis

Focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a severe form of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS), a glomerulopathy of presumably immune origin that is attributed to extrarenal pathogenic circulating factors. The recurrence of FSGS (rFSGS) after transplant occurs in 30% to 50% of cases. The direct analysis of patient plasma proteome has scarcely been addressed to date, mainly due to the methodological difficulties associated with plasma complexity and dynamic range. In this study, first, we compared different methods of plasma preparation, second, we compared the plasma proteomes of rFSGS and controls using two preparation methods, and third, we analyzed the early proximal signaling events in podocytes subjected to patient plasma, through a combination of phosphoproteomics and lipid-raft proteomics (raftomics). By combining immunodepletion and high pH fractionation, we performed a differential proteomic analysis of soluble plasma proteins and of extracellular vesicles (EV) obtained from healthy controls, non-INS patient controls, and rFSGS patients (n = 4). In both the soluble- and the EV-protein sets from the rFSGS patients, we found a statistically significant increase in a cluster of proteins involved in neutrophil degranulation. A group of lipid-binding proteins, generally associated with lipoproteins, was found to be decreased in the soluble set from the rFSGS patients. In addition, three amino acid transporters involved in mTORC1 activation were found to be significantly increased in the EV from the rFSGS. Next, we incubated human podocytes for 30 min with 10% plasma from both groups of patients. The phosphoproteomics and raftomics of the podocytes revealed profound differences in the proteins involved in the mTOR pathway, in autophagy, and in cytoskeleton organization. We analyzed the correlation between the abundance of plasma and plasma-regulated podocyte proteins. The observed changes highlight some of the mechanisms involved in FSGS recurrence and could be used as specific early markers of circulating-factor activity in podocytes.

Antibody-Guided Therapy in Phospholipase A2 Receptor-Associated Membranous Nephropathy

Introduction

A 6-month course of cyclophosphamide (CP) and steroids is effective in primary membranous nephropathy (MN), but unappealing because of long-term side effects. We evaluated efficacy of an "antibody-guided" treatment schedule.

Methods

Patients with phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R)-related MN and high risk of progression were treated with CP 1.5 mg/kg/d and steroids in cycles of 8 weeks. Anti-PLA2R antibodies were measured by indirect immunofluorescence (IIFT) at 8, 16, and 24 weeks, and a negative test resulted in withdrawal of CP, and rapid tapering of prednisone. In patients with persistent anti-PLA2R antibodies at 24 weeks, CP was switched to mycophenolate mofetil. Treatment was repeated in patients with a relapse.

Results

Our analysis included 65 patients (48 males, 17 females), age 61 ± 12 years, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 46 ml/min per 1.73 m² (35-68), urine protein-to-creatinine ratio 7.7 grams/10 mmol creatinine (5.4-11.1) and serum albumin 20 g/l (16-26). Immunologic remission rate was 71% after 8 weeks, 86% after 16 weeks, 88% after 24 weeks, and 94% after 3 years. Twenty-seven patients (42%) had persistent clinical remission after only 8 weeks of therapy. Sixteen patients needed a second course of therapy because of immunologic or clinical relapse. Follow-up was 37 (26-58) months. Overall partial remission rate was 92%. One patient developed end-stage kidney disease. Antibody-guided therapy (ABG) was as effective as the standard 6-month course, whereas providing a lower cumulative dose of CP (11.1 [8.0-18.5] vs. 18.9 [14.2-23.6] grams).

Conclusion

ABG is effective, and allows individualized therapy, with many patients responding to 8 weeks of CP-based therapy.

Research progress of nephrotic syndrome accompanied by thromboembolism

Thromboembolism (TE) is a common and serious complication of nephrotic syndrome (NS). NS is associated with hypercoagulability, which may be induced by changes in coagulation, anticoagulant, and fibrinolytic factors. Moreover, accumulating evidence supports the hypothesis that the complex interactions between genetic and acquired risk factors in TE should be considered and that genetic susceptibility should not be ignored. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) also play unique roles. Further research on EVs may provide new insights into the discovery and treatment of TE associated with NS. The occurrence of NS accompanied by TE may be associated with various risk factors. Preventive anticoagulant therapy can not only reduce the risk of TE in patients but also aggravate the risk of bleeding. Heparin and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), traditional anticoagulant drugs, have been extensively applied in the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic diseases, and emerging direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) also provide an alternative choice. Owing to the particularity of NS, the safe application of DOACs still needs to be addressed. This review aimed to comprehensively describe the pathophysiology of TE in NS, as well as analyze the associated risk factors, the opportunity for preventive anticoagulation, and current anticoagulant information.

UK prescribing practice of anticoagulants in patients with chronic kidney disease: a nephrology and haematology-based survey

A survey to gain insight into anticoagulant prescribing practice in the setting of chronic kidney disease (CKD) across the UK was disseminated via renal and haematology networks. Areas of anticoagulant use included patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE), requiring thromboprophylaxis for VTE, Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and nephrotic syndrome.An online-survey was disseminated via British Haematology Society, UK Kidney Association, and Renal Pharmacy Group over a five month period. All responses were voluntary and anonymous.Among 117 responses there were 49 nephrology doctors, 47 renal pharmacists and 20 haematology clinicians. A specialist multidisciplinary team to discuss the specific anticoagulant management of these patients was only available to 3% (4/117) respondents. Renal function estimate used for anticoagulant dosing was mainly Cockcroft-Gault for pharmacists and haematology but lab-based estimates were used by nephrology doctors. Therapeutic dose of Low Molecular Weight Heparin was mostly likely to be reduced by one-third when used for VTE treatment, with the majority of units undertaking anti-Xa monitoring in CKD stage 5 and dialysis. Direct-acting Oral Anticoagulants are being used in patients with nephrotic syndrome, those with CKD stage 5 and on dialysis for VTE and AF in the absence of license in these indications.This survey highlighted the significant differences between anticoagulant prescribing in CKD between two professional specialties and marked variation between centres in anticoagulant management strategies employed for these patients. With gaps still existing in the evidence base and answers to these not expected within the next few years, development of a best-practice guideline would be warranted to support clinicians in this field.

Longitudinal Analysis of Prophylactic Anticoagulation in Primary Nephrotic Syndrome: Low Incidence of Thromboembolic Complications

Introduction

Thromboembolic events (TEEs) are a serious and potentially fatal complication of nephrotic syndrome (NS). Despite this, there is a lack of evidence examining the benefits of prophylactic anticoagulation (PAC) in NS. It was our objective to review the risk factors, rates of TEEs, and patterns of PAC in patients with primary NS, with the aim to provide a pragmatic approach to PAC in primary NS.

Methods

This is a retrospective longitudinal cohort study of adult patients with primary NS. Included were as follows: biopsy-proven minimal change disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (described as a combined podocytopathy cohort) plus membranous nephropathy (MN) over an 8-year period from a single centre. Anticoagulation practice, TEEs, and longer term outcomes were recorded.

Results

Fifty-four patients with MN and 48 patients with podocytopathies were included. Baseline demographics and severity of NS were comparable. Those with MN were more likely to develop TEE 12 (22%) versus 4 (8%) (p = 0.027) though this difference was predominantly seen at index diagnosis. Only 2 patients developed TEEs during active incident NS. Rates of PAC were similar when comparing MN (53%) and podocytopathies (58%). Those with a serum albumin <20 g/L and HAS-BLED score <3 were most likely to receive PAC (22/30, 73% in MN vs. 21/30, 70% in podocytopathy). Warfarin was the most common agent used in MN cohort 18/26 (69%) versus prophylactic dose low-molecular-weight heparin in the podocytopathy cohort 12/28 (43%).

Discussion/Conclusion

PAC practices applied in this cohort of patients were pragmatic and effective, with low TEE rates during active NS.

A case of thromboembolic events as first manifestation of membranous nephropathy

We present a case of idiopathic membranous glomerulonephritis that presented with venous thromboembolism and was successfully managed with corticosteroid, cyclosporin, appropriate anticoagulant therapy. A 59-year old male patient was referred to our nephrology department who had an outpatient history of swelling in the feet and flank pain was detected proteinuria and thrombosis in the inferior vena cava. Warfarin sodium treatment was started when thrombus was detected in the femoral vein, renal vein and inferior vena cava in the imaging. The patient had 12 g/day proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia and antiphospholipase A2 receptor antibody positivity and treatment was started with the diagnosis of idiopathic membranous nephropathy. The patient who was discharged with oral steroid, cyclosporine and warfarin sodium, but warfarin sodium was changed to rivaroxaban in another clinic due to incompatibility problems, was presented again with dsypnea. Pulmonary embolism was detected. Rivaroxaban was discontinued and low molecular weight heparin treatment was started. There was a very high risk of morbidity and mortality and with appropriate treatment, clinical status and renal function were stabilized. In conclusion, although thromboembolism can be seen in nephrotic syndrome, it may rarely be encountered as the first presentation of nephrotic syndrome. This situation should not be overlooked, appropriate treatments should be provided without delay.

Direct Oral Anticoagulants Versus Warfarin for Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Patients With Nephrotic Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background:

Evidence supporting venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients with nephrotic syndrome (NS) is limited to case reports.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to compare bleeding and thromboembolic events in this population.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in adults with NS initiated on a DOAC or warfarin for VTE prophylaxis between January 2013 and July 2021 within the Ochsner Health System. Patients with study drug exposure within the preceding 7 days, acute VTE within the preceding 6 months, or ≤7 days of study drug exposure were excluded. The primary outcome was the composite rate of major bleeding and clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding. Secondary outcomes included time to major bleeding and rate of new thromboembolic events. This study was approved by the Ochsner Health System Institutional Review Board.

Results:

Twenty-five DOAC and 19 warfarin patients were included. The primary outcome occurred in 8% vs 26.3% ( P = 0.21) of patients treated with a DOAC or warfarin, respectively, and was driven by major bleeding (4% vs 21%, P = 0.25). Other secondary outcomes were similar between cohorts. The study was limited by a small sample size.

Conclusion and Relevance:

Use of DOACs for VTE prophylaxis resulted in a nonstatistically significant, but clinically relevant lower rate of major bleeding compared to warfarin. This study provides comparative data showing safe and effective use of DOACs in patients with NS. Prospective, randomized studies are needed to confirm results.

Nephrotic Syndrome – Different Risk of Venous Thromboembolism with Different Approaches to Justify Prophylactic Anticoagulation

All of the circumstances influencing any of the elements of Virchow’s Triad can increase the risk of venous thromboembolism. Assessing prothrombotic factors can sometimes be difficult. One of the examples of such a condition is nephrotic syndrome. In this condition at least two elements of Virchow’s triad are affected: physiological blood composition and the venous blood flow which is slowed down by the edema. Except for the cases mentioned in KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes), the use of anticoagulant drugs in the prophylaxis of VTE (Venous Thromboembolism) in nephrotic syndrome seems unclear. Nevertheless, due to the increased risk of VTE, it is worth implementing mechanical anticoagulant prophylaxis, which can also improve the quality of life of patients by reducing swelling. The article analyzes the current knowledge on the field and gives some proposals with low bleeding risk.

Safety and effectiveness of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with nephrotic syndrome: a report of 21 cases

Background

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is associated with increased risk of thromboembolic events (TE) adding to the morbidity and mortality. International guidelines recommend prophylactic anticoagulation in patients with NS and high risk of TE, but no studies have identified the optimal type of anticoagulation in NS. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) by analyzing the thromboembolic and bleeding events in NS patients prescribed DOAC as primary prophylaxis to prevent TE or as treatment for TE occurring in relation to NS.

Methods

We performed a single-center, retrospective study including patients with NS, a plasma albumin less than 25 g/L and prophylactic anticoagulation treatment with DOAC at the Department of Renal Medicine at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark from July 2016 to June 2021. Patients treated with DOAC as thromboprophylaxis for other indications than NS were excluded. Baseline characteristics and outcomes, including TE, bleeding and other adverse effects associated with DOAC were obtained from medical records.

Results

We identified 268 patients treated with DOAC of which 21 patients with NS were included in the study. Nineteen patients were prescribed DOAC as thromboprophylaxis and two patients received DOAC due to previous TE, which was considered associated with the NS. The type of DOAC prescribed was apixaban (n = 10) and rivaroxaban (n = 11). No patients experienced TE during DOAC treatment, while five patients had a minor bleeding episode. Patients who experienced bleeding episodes were older (median 62 vs 51 years), more often female (80%) and had been on DOAC for a longer period (204 days vs 47 days). Neither the HAS-BLED score nor GN-risk-score predicted the risk of minor bleedings in this population.

Conclusions

In this case series, no new TE and only minor bleeding complications were observed among adult NS patients treated with DOAC.

Nephrotic Syndrome Complications - New and Old. Part 1

Nephrotic syndrome is a rare condition with an incidence of 2-7 cases/100.000 children per year and three new cases/100.000 adults per year. It occurs as a result of severe alteration of the glomerular filtration barrier of various causes, allowing proteins, mostly albumin, to be lost in the urine. Nephrotic syndrome complications are driven by the magnitude of either proteinuria or hypoalbuminemia, or both. Their frequency and severity vary with proteinuria and serum albumin level. Besides albumin, many other proteins are lost in urine. Therefore, nephrotic patients could have low levels of binding proteins for ions, vitamins, hormones, lipoproteins, coagulation factors. The liver tries to counterbalance these losses and will increase the unselective synthesis of all types of proteins. All of these changes will have different clinical consequences. The present paper aims to discuss the pathophysiological mechanism and new therapeutic recommendations for nephrotic syndrome edema and thromboembolic complications.

A case of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and minimal change disease complicated by bilateral pulmonary emboli

Nephrotic syndrome and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance are thought to be associated with venous thromboembolism. However, the association is thought to be weak and is often ignored by clinicians. We present a rare case of sudden-onset bilateral pulmonary emboli with lower extremity deep vein thrombosis in a patient diagnosed with both minimal change disease and immunoglobulin M (IgM) kappa monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. No previous report has been published describing venous thromboembolism in a patient with plasma cell dyscrasia and minimal change disease. This case establishes the importance of considering a diagnostic workup for both disorders in patients with venous thromboembolism. Furthermore, venous thromboembolism risk in patients with both of these diseases is significant. Benefits of prophylactic anticoagulation in these patients are still controversial.

Membranous nephropathy

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a glomerular disease that can occur at all ages. In adults, it is the most frequent cause of nephrotic syndrome. In ~80% of patients, there is no underlying cause of MN (primary MN) and the remaining cases are associated with medications or other diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, hepatitis virus infection or malignancies. MN is an autoimmune disease characterized by a thickening of the glomerular capillary walls due to immune complex deposition. Identification of the phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) as the major antigen in adults in 2009 induced a paradigm shift in disease diagnosis and monitoring and several other antigens have since been characterized. Disease outcome is difficult to predict and around one-third of patients will undergo spontaneous remission. In those at high risk of progression, immunosuppressive therapy with cyclophosphamide plus corticosteroids has substantially reduced the need for kidney replacement therapy. Owing to carcinogenic risk, other treatments (calcineurin inhibitors and CD20-targeted B cell depletion therapy (rituximab)) have been developed. However, disease relapses are frequent when calcineurin inhibitors are stopped and the remission rate with rituximab is lower than with cyclophosphamide, particularly in patients with high PLA2R antibody titres. Other new drugs are already available and antigen-specific immunotherapies are being developed.

Prophylactic anticoagulants to prevent venous thromboembolism in patients with nephrotic syndrome-A retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is associated with increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Guidelines suggest prophylactic anticoagulants to patients with high risk of thrombosis and low risk of bleeding, but the evidence behind this is poor. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness and risks of prophylactic anticoagulants (PAC) and investigate risk factors for VTE and bleeding in NS.

METHODS

A retrospective medical records study including adults with NS, biopsy proven glomerular disease in the county of Västernorrland, Sweden. Outcomes were VTE, bleeding and death. Patients divided into PAC- and no PAC group were compared using Fisher's exact test. Patient time was divided into serum/plasma(S/P)-albumin intervals (<20g/L and ≥20g/L) and VTE- and bleeding rates were calculated.

RESULTS

In 95 included NS patients (PAC = 40, no PAC = 55), 7 VTE (7.4%) and 17 bleedings (18%) were found. Outcomes didn't differ significantly between the PAC and no PAC group. Time with S/P-albumin <20g/L conferred higher rates/100 years of VTE (IRR 21.7 (95%CI 4.5-116.5)) and bleeding (IRR 5.0 (1.4-14.7)), compared to time with S/P-albumin>20g/L.

CONCLUSION

Duration of severe hypoalbuminemia (S/P-albumin <20g/L) in NS is a risk factor for both VTE and bleeding. There is a need for randomized controlled studies regarding the benefit of PAC in NS as well as risk factors of thrombosis and bleeding in NS.

The Association of Syndecan-1, Hypercoagulable State and Thrombosis and in Patients With Nephrotic Syndrome

The aim of this study is to investigate whether Syndecan-1 (SDC-1), an indicator of endothelial glycocalyx injury, would increase the risk of hypercoagulable state and thrombosis in patients with nephrotic syndrome (NS). The prospective study was conducted among patients undergoing renal biopsy in the Department of Nephrology in our hospital from May to September 2018. We enrolled in patients with NS as the experimental group and patients with normal serum creatinine and proteinuria less than 1 g as the control group. Patients’ characteristics including age, sex, laboratory test results and blood samples were collected for each patient. The blood samples were taken before the renal biopsy. The samples were immediately processed and frozen at −80°C for later measurement of Syndecan-1. One hundred and thirty-six patients were enrolled in the study. Patients with NS and hypercoagulability had a higher level of SDC-1 compared with control group. Patients with membranous nephropathy occupied the highest SDC-1 level (P = 0.012). Logistic regression showed that highly increased level of SDC-1 (>53.18 ng/ml) was an independent predicator for predicting hypercoagulable state. The elevated level of SDC-1 indicated that endothelial injury, combined with its role of accelerating hypercoagulable state, might be considered of vital importance in the pathophysiological progress of thrombosis formation in patients with NS.

Pharmacological and clinical application of heparin progress: An essential drug for modern medicine

Heparin is the earliest and most widely used anticoagulant and antithrombotic drug that is still used in a variety of clinical indications. Since it was discovered in 1916, after more than a century of repeated exploration, heparin has not been replaced by other drugs, but a great progress has been made in its basic research and clinical application. Besides anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects, heparin also has antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and other pharmacological activities. It is widely used clinically in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, lung diseases, kidney diseases, cancer, etc., as the first anticoagulant medicine in COVID-19 exerts anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. At the same time, however, it also leads to a lot of adverse reactions, such as bleeding, thrombocytopenia, elevated transaminase, allergic reactions, and others. This article comprehensively reviews the modern research progress of heparin compounds; discusses the structure, preparation, and adverse reactions of heparin; emphasizes the pharmacological activity and clinical application of heparin; reveals the possible mechanism of the therapeutic effect of heparin in related clinical applications; provides evidence support for the clinical application of heparin; and hints on the significance of exploring the wider application fields of heparin.

Thromboprophylaxis in congenital nephrotic syndrome: 15-year experience from a national cohort

INTRODUCTION

Congenital nephrotic syndrome (CNS) is an ultra-rare disease associated with a pro-thrombotic state and venous thromboembolisms (VTE). There is very limited evidence evaluating thromboprophylaxis in patients with CNS. This study aimed to determine the doses and duration of treatment required to achieve adequate thromboprophylaxis in patients with CNS.

METHODS

From 2005 to 2018 children in Scotland with a confirmed genetic or histological diagnosis of CNS were included if commenced on thromboprophylaxis. The primary study endpoint was stable drug monitoring. Secondary outcomes included VTE or significant haemorrhage.

RESULTS

Eight patients were included; all initially were commenced on low-molecular weight heparin (enoxaparin). Four patients maintained therapeutic anti-Factor Xa levels (time 3-26 weeks, dose 3.2-5.07 mg/kg/day), and one patient developed a thrombosis (Anti-Factor Xa: 0.27 IU/ml). Four patients were subsequently treated with warfarin. Two patients maintained therapeutic INRs (time 6-11 weeks, dose 0.22-0.25 mg/kg/day), and one patient had two bleeding events (Bleed 1: INR 6, Bleed 2: INR 5.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Achieving thromboprophylaxis in CNS is challenging. Similar numbers of patients achieved stable anticoagulation on warfarin and enoxaparin. Enoxaparin dosing was nearly double the recommended starting doses for secondary thromboprophylaxis. Bleeding events were all associated with supra-therapeutic anticoagulation.

Inherited Risk Factors of Thromboembolic Events in Patients with Primary Nephrotic Syndrome

Background and objectives. Venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) are among the most important complications of nephrotic syndrome (NS). We conducted a study that aimed to determine the prevalence of inherited risk factors for VTE in NS and to identify which factors are independent predictors of VTE. Materials and Methods. Thirty-six consecutive patients with primary NS that underwent percutaneous kidney biopsy between January 2017 and December 2017 were enrolled in this retrospective, observational study. VTEs were the primary outcome. Baseline demographic and biochemical data were collected from medical records, and genetic testing was done for polymorphisms of Factor V, PAI, MTHFR, and prothrombin genes. Results. The incidence of VTE was 28%, and the median time to event was 3 months (IQR: 2-9). The prevalence of inherited risk factors was 14% for Factor V Leiden mutation, 5.6% for prothrombin G20210A, 44.5% for PAI, and 27.8% for each of the two polymorphisms of the MTHFR gene. On multivariate analysis, the presence of at least two mutations was independently associated with the risk of VTE (HR, 8.92; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.001 to 79.58, p = 0,05). Conclusions. These findings suggest that genetic testing for inherited thrombophilia in NS could play an important role in detecting high-risk patients that warrant prophylactic anticoagulation.

Randomized, Controlled Trial of Tacrolimus and Prednisolone Monotherapy for Adults with De Novo Minimal Change Disease: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Minimal change disease is an important cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Corticosteroids are first-line therapy for minimal change disease, but a prolonged course of treatment is often required and relapse rates are high. Patients with minimal change disease are therefore often exposed to high cumulative corticosteroid doses and are at risk of associated adverse effects. This study investigated whether tacrolimus monotherapy without corticosteroids would be effective for the treatment of de novo minimal change disease.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

This was a multicenter, prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled trial involving six nephrology units across the United Kingdom. Adult patients with first presentation of minimal change disease and nephrotic syndrome were randomized to treatment with either oral tacrolimus at 0.05 mg/kg twice daily, or prednisolone at 1 mg/kg daily up to 60 mg daily. The primary outcome was complete remission of nephrotic syndrome after 8 weeks of therapy. Secondary outcomes included remission of nephrotic syndrome at 16 and 26 weeks, rates of relapse of nephrotic syndrome, and changes from baseline kidney function.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the tacrolimus and prednisolone treatment cohorts in the proportion of patients in complete remission at 8 weeks (21 out of 25 [84%] for prednisolone and 17 out of 25 [68%] for tacrolimus cohorts; P=0.32; difference in remission rates was 16%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], -11% to 40%), 16 weeks (23 out of 25 [92%] for prednisolone and 19 out of 25 [76%] for tacrolimus cohorts; P=0.25; difference in remission rates was 16%; 95% CI, -8% to 38%), or 26 weeks (23 out of 25 [92%] for prednisolone and 22 out of 25 [88%] for tacrolimus cohorts; P=0.99; difference in remission rates was 4%; 95% CI, -17% to 25%). There was no significant difference in relapse rates (17 out of 23 [74%] for prednisolone and 16 out of 22 [73%] for tacrolimus cohorts) for patients in each group who achieved complete remission (P=0.99) or in the time from complete remission to relapse.

CONCLUSIONS

Tacrolimus monotherapy can be effective alternative treatment for patients wishing to avoid steroid therapy for minimal change disease.

PODCAST

This article contains a podcast at https://www.asn-online.org/media/podcast/CJASN/2020_01_16_CJN06180519.mp3.

The role of prophylactic use of low molecular weight heparin or aspirin in thromboembolic events in primary membranous nephropathy

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the role of prophylactic anticoagulation regimens based on low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or aspirin in thromboembolic events in patients with primary membranous nephropathy (PMN).

Methods: A total of 717 patients with PMN were consecutively enrolled in this retrospective study. The propensity score matching method was utilized to adjust for the selection bias inherent in an analysis of outcomes, which was stratified by the anticoagulation prophylaxis regimen.

Results: According to the anticoagulation prophylaxis regimen, patients were assigned into three groups: only LMWH therapy (L + A−, n = 53), only aspirin therapy (L − A+, n = 97), and no therapy of LMWH or aspirin (L − A−, n = 567). After performing 1:1 match, 37 patients were selected in the L + A − group and the L − A− group, respectively, and 94 patients were selected in the L − A+ group and the L − A− group, respectively. It showed that the prophylactic use of LMWH had no protective effects on arterial thromboembolic events (ATEs) (10.8% vs. 21.6%, p = .21) or venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) (8.1% vs. 10.8%, p = .69). The incidence of VTEs in the L − A+ group was lower than the L − A− group (2.1% vs. 10.6%, p = .02), while there were no significant differences in the incidences of ATEs between the L − A+ group and the L − A− group (5.3% vs. 7.4%, p = .55).

Conclusions: The prophylactic use of LMWH showed no benefits on the incidence of ATEs or VTEs in patients with PMN. Aspirin effectively decreased the incidence of VTEs, without effects on the occurrence of ATEs.

A Systematic Review of Prophylactic Anticoagulation in Nephrotic Syndrome

Introduction

Nephrotic syndrome is associated with an increased risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism, which can be as high as 40% depending on the severity and underlying cause of nephrotic syndrome. The 2012 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines recommend prophylactic anticoagulation only in idiopathic membranous nephropathy but acknowledge that existing data are limited and of low quality. There is a need for better identification of vulnerable patients in order to balance the risks of anticoagulation.

Methods

We undertook a systematic search of the topic in MEDLINE, EMBASE and COCHRANE databases, for relevant articles between 1990 and 2019.

Results

A total of 2381 articles were screened, with 51 full-text articles reviewed. In all, 28 articles were included in the final review.

Conclusion

We discuss the key questions of whom to anticoagulate, when to anticoagulate, and how to prophylactically anticoagulate adults with nephrotic syndrome. Using available evidence, we expand upon current KDIGO guidelines and construct a clinical algorithm to aid decision making for prophylactic anticoagulation in nephrotic syndrome.

Prophylactic anticoagulation in nephrotic syndrome prevents thromboembolic complications

Background

An increased incidence of thromboembolic events (TE) are reported in nephrotic syndrome (NS) leading to recommendations for prophylactic anticoagulation (PAC). However, as no randomized clinical trial has established the efficacy or risks associated with PAC, guidelines are empiric or substantiated only by estimates of risks and benefits.

This study evaluates the risk of TE and hemorrhagic complications in patients with NS treated with PAC and compares to patients not receiving PAC.

Methods

We included patients diagnosed with NS from two Danish nephrology departments with different practices for the use of PAC. Patients were included if presenting with NS from September 2006 to January 2012, a P-albumin < 30 g/L, and renal biopsy confirming non-diabetic, glomerular disease. Patients aged < 16 years, on renal replacement therapy, or administered anticoagulants at the onset of NS were excluded. Bleeding episodes and/or TE were identified from patient records. Bleeding episodes were divided into minor and major bleeding.

Results

Of the 79 patients included, 44 patients received PAC either as low or high dose low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) or as warfarin with or without LMWH as bridging, while 35 did not receive PAC. P-albumin was significant lower in the PAC group compared to those not receiving PAC. Significantly more TEs was observed in the non-PAC group compared to the PAC group (4 versus 0 episodes, P = 0.035). The TEs observed included one patient with pulmonary embolism (PE), one with PE and deep vein thrombosis, one with PE and renal vein thrombosis, and one with a stroke. Five patients with bleeding episodes were identified among those receiving PAC, of which two were major and three were minor, while two patients in the non-PAC group experienced a minor bleeding episode (P = 0.45 between groups). The major bleeding episodes only occurred in patients receiving PAC in combination with low dose aspirin.

Conclusions

In patients with NS the use of PAC was associated with a decreased risk of clinically significant TE, but may also be associated with more bleeding episodes although not statistically significant. Only patients treated with PAC in combination with anti-platelet therapy had major bleeding episodes.

Acquired von Willebrand Syndrome Complicating Nephrotic Syndrome: A Case of a Patient With Membranous Nephropathy

Acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) is a rare clinical entity presenting with heterogeneous hemorrhagic manifestations, although some subsets of patients with AVWS may be asymptomatic until they are exposed to major trauma, an invasive procedure, or surgery. We herein report one such case in a 73-year-old male patient with nephrotic syndrome with a prolonged active partial thromboplastin time. We initially did not deal with this distinct abnormal clotting profile seriously, but persistent bleeding after a retroperitoneoscopic-assisted renal biopsy that allowed us to ascribe his nephrotic syndrome to membranous nephropathy fortuitously led to the discovery of concurrent AVWS. We feel that an accurate and prompt diagnosis as well as awareness of the disease remain a challenge for physicians and therefore strongly recommend the further accumulation of experiences similar to our own in a prospective manner. This report underscores the pitfalls associated with determining the bleeding risk, including an insufficient assessment and improper weighting of an abnormal clotting profile prior to the invasive procedure. Several management concerns that emerged in the current case are also discussed.

Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants as Prophylaxis Against Thromboembolism in the Nephrotic Syndrome

We report 2 cases of apixaban use as prophylaxis against thromboembolism in the nephrotic syndrome (NS), and review the existing literature on direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) use in this scenario. Our cases appear to be the first reported use of apixaban as prophylaxis against thromboembolism in NS. We report our systematic review of the existing literature on direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) use in NS, and discuss theoretical issues relevant to their therapeutic use in this clinical scenario. We searched electronic databases such as OVID, EMBASE, PubMed, and CENTRAL, DARE. The search to identify studies and the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria was performed in duplicate independently. We identified 1 pilot randomized study, 3 case reports, and 3 conference proceedings abstracts relating to DOAC use in NS. These reports all pertain to the treatment of clinically evident thrombosis in NS with rivaroxaban, edoxaban, and dabigatran rather than prophylaxis against thrombosis. Although the existing literature on DOAC use in NS is limited, initial preliminary experience appears promising.

Edoxaban was Effective for Treating Renal Vein Thrombosis in a Patient with Nephrotic Syndrome

A 39-year-old man with nephrotic syndrome was admitted due to right dorsal pain. Contrast-enhanced CT led to a diagnosis of renal vein thrombosis and segmental pulmonary thromboembolism. Treatment with heparin and warfarin was started. After 1 month, pulmonary thromboembolism recurred. Warfarin was switched to edoxaban, and steroid therapy was initiated, which led to the remission of nephrotic syndrome and the disappearance of renal vein thrombosis. The efficacy of edoxaban was demonstrated; however, this drug has not been routinely selected for patients with renal disease. Our results suggest that edoxaban is also effective for treating venous thrombosis patients with nephrotic syndrome.

Retroperitoneal Bleeding: An Experience During Prophylactic Anticoagulation in a Patient With Nephrotic Syndrome

The association between nephrotic syndrome (NS) and a hypercoagulable state has been demonstrated. Controlling the blood clotting activity may therefore be attractive for patients with nephrosis in terms of thromboembolism prophylaxis. We herein report a 75-year-old woman with minimal change disease who developed pains in the right back, groin, and thigh because of retroperitoneal bleeding during prophylactic anticoagulation with unfractionated heparin. Although this procedure has not been accepted as the standard of care for patients with nephrosis, pharmacologic prophylaxis may already be practiced empirically, as in the present patient. We believe that our experience highlights the pitfalls of such a management in patients with nephrosis, implying the need for a diagnostic strategy for identifying those patients with NS who can benefit from prophylactic anticoagulation. Several concerns that emerged in this case are also discussed.

Therapeutic Dilemmas Regarding Anticoagulation: An Experience in a Patient with Nephrotic Syndrome, Pulmonary Embolism, and Traumatic Brain Injury

Patients with active bleeding complications who concomitantly develop overt pulmonary embolism (PE) present distinct therapeutic dilemmas, since they are perceived to be at substantial risk for the progression of the embolism in the absence of treatment and for aggravation of the hemorrhagic lesions if treated with anticoagulants. A 76-year-old patient with nephrotic syndrome, which is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, concurrently developed acute PE and intracranial bleeding because of traumatic brain injury. In this case, we prioritized the treatment for PE with the intravenous unfractionated heparin followed by warfarinization. Despite the transient hemorrhagic progression of the brain contusion after the institution of anticoagulation, our patient recovered favorably from the disease without any signs of neurological compromise. Several conundrums regarding anticoagulation that emerged in this case are also discussed.

Venous Thromboembolism in Primary Nephrotic Syndrome - Is the Risk High Enough to Justify Prophylactic Anticoagulation?

BACKGROUND

The reported incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with nephrotic syndrome (NS) varies widely, as does the approach to prophylactic anticoagulation. We aimed to assess the incidence of VTE in patients with primary NS in order to inform a sample size calculation to determine if a future clinical trial will ever be feasible.

METHODS

All adults undergoing native renal biopsy for NS between 2008 and 2013 yielding a diagnosis of primary glomerulonephritis were identified. Baseline serum albumin, urine protein:creatinine ratio, estimated glomerular filtration rate, date of biopsy and histological diagnosis were recorded. Episodes of objectively verified VTE were identified using the electronic patient record. Sample size calculations were performed based on 2 independent samples with a dichotomous outcome and to achieve a power of 80% and p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Two hundred six patients were included of which 60% were male and mean age at biopsy was 55 years (SD 19). Median follow-up was 2.9 years (interquartile range (IQR) 1.6-4.7). Fourteen (6.8%) patients suffered VTE. Median time to diagnosis of VTE from renal biopsy was 36 days (IQR -22 to 178), with 6 VTEs occurring prior to biopsy and 1 during remission. In a total of 270 patient years of NS, there were 7 VTE that could potentially have been avoided if anticoagulation was given for the duration of NS, that is, 2.6% risk per year of NS; this risk was highest for patients with minimal change nephropathy at 13.3% per year of NS, compared to 0.65% per year of NS for those with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Assuming a 75% reduction in the incidence of VTE with prophylactic anticoagulation, 972 participants would be required for a future clinical trial to have 80% power.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with primary NS are at an increased risk of VTE. The timing of VTE means that only half of episodes would be targeted by prophylactic anticoagulation. Given the low frequency of events, a well-powered clinical trial would be challenging to achieve.

Nephrotic syndrome-induced thromboembolism in adults

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a well-defined syndrome characterized by the presence of nephrotic range of proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and hyperlipidemia. Although venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a well-reported complication associated with NS, the incidence, prevalence, risk factors, treatment options, and preventative strategies are not well-established. Thromboembolic phenomena in nephrotic patients are postulated to be a result of the urinary loss of antithrombotic factors by affected kidneys and increased production of prothrombotic factors by the liver. Most cases of VTE associated with NS reported in the literature have a known diagnosis of NS. We report a case of a young female presenting with dyspnea and a pulmonary embolism. She was found to have NS and right renal vein thrombosis. We review the available literature to highlight the best approach for clinicians treating VTE in patients with NS.

American Society of Nephrology quiz and questionnaire 2014: glomerular diseases

The Nephrology Quiz and Questionnaire remains an extremely popular session for attendees of the Annual Kidney Week Meeting of the American Society of Nephrology. Once again, the conference hall was overflowing with audience members and eager quiz participants. Topics covered by the expert discussants included electrolyte and acid-base disorders, glomerular disease, ESRD/dialysis, and transplantation. Complex cases representing each of these categories along with single best answer questions were prepared and submitted by the panel of experts. Before the meeting, program directors of United States nephrology training programs and nephrology fellows answered the questions through an internet-based questionnaire. During the live session, members of the audience tested their knowledge and judgment on a series of case-oriented questions that were prepared and discussed by the experts. They compared their answers in real time using audience response devices with the answers of the nephrology fellows and training program directors. The correct and incorrect answers were then discussed after the audience responses, and the results of the questionnaire were displayed. As always, the audience, lecturers, and moderators enjoyed this educational session. This article recapitulates the session and reproduces its educational value for the readers of CJASN. Enjoy the clinical cases and expert discussions.

Primary Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults as a Risk Factor for Pulmonary Embolism: An Up-to-Date Review of the Literature

Patients with nephrotic syndrome are at an increased risk for thrombotic events; deep venous thrombosis, renal vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism are quite common in patients with nephrotic syndrome. It is important to note that nephrotic syndrome secondary to membranous nephropathy may impose a greater thrombotic risk for unclear reasons. Increased platelet activation, enhanced red blood cell aggregation, and an imbalance between procoagulant and anticoagulant factors are thought to underlie the excessive thrombotic risk in patients with nephrotic syndrome. The current scientific literature suggests that patients with low serum albumin levels and membranous nephropathy may benefit from primary prophylactic anticoagulation. A thorough approach which includes accounting for all additional thrombotic risk factors is, therefore, essential. Patient counseling regarding the pros and cons of anticoagulation is of paramount importance. Future prospective randomized studies should address the question regarding the utility of primary thromboprophylaxis in patients with nephrotic syndrome.