What have we learned from the use of ciclosporin A in the treatment of nephrotic patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy?
BACKGROUND
Ciclosporin A (CsA) has been widely used in the treatment of patients with nephrotic syndrome over the last 10 years.


OBJECTIVE
Review of the accumulated knowledge from the use of CsA in patients with nephrotic syndrome due to idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN).


METHODS
The most important articles concerning the use of CsA in IMN patients have been reviewed.


CONCLUSIONS
CsA, a potentially nephrotoxic drug, induces remission of nephrotic syndrome in > 80% of IMN patients. Relapses occur after its withdrawal and long-term treatment is necessary. Repeat renal biopsies show no signs of CsA nephrotoxicity, but show deterioration of chronic histological lesions with time, even in cases with remission. Thus, CsA is effective in IMN patients, but its long-term use should be examined with caution.
Goumenos
Dimitrios S
DS
University Hospital of Patras, Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, 26500 Patras, Greece. dgoumenos@med.upatras.gr
D016572:Cyclosporine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015433:Glomerulonephritis, Membranous / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009404:Nephrotic Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D012008:Recurrence; D013997:Time Factors
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D016572:Cyclosporine