A case of nephrotic syndrome achieving remission with cyclosporine monotherapy

Abstract

The case was a female in her early 80's. Due to abdominal bloating and lower limb edema, she visited a nearby doctor, was diagnosed to have nephrotic syndrome, and then was referred to our department. Upon initial consultation, TP of 4.1 g/dl, Alb of 1.7 g/dl, UN of 73 mg/dl, and Cr of 1.43 mg/dl, along with pleural effusion were observed by chest X-ray. A renal biopsy was not performed because permission could not be obtained. Despite the fact that management of the edema was performed using diuretic agents and albumin preparations, a reduced renal function and deterioration of the fluid retention were gradually observed. She originally displayed lower back pain and digestive symptoms and, therefore, cyclosporine monotherapy was initiated in order to address concerns of side effects such as osteoporosis and peptic ulcer due to adrenocortical steroid drugs (hereinafter abbreviated as steroid). Subsequently, hemodialysis was temporarily required but reduced urine protein and an improved renal function were gradually observed and she eventually achieved a complete remission. The possibility of a spontaneous remission of membranous nephropathy, etc. was considered, but a relapse occurred when the amount of cyclosporine was reduced. Thereafter, a complete remission was obtained with an increased dosage. As a result, the effectiveness of cyclosporine was thus confirmed. In treating nephrotic syndrome, steroid therapy is commonly performed and it is common for cyclosporine to be limited to steroid-resistant cases and/or steroid-dependent cases. However, it is believed that monotherapy could also be an option in cases in which the use of steroids is difficult, such as in cases of elderly patients.