Carbimazole-induced, ANCA-associated, crescentic glomerulonephritis: case report and literature review

Ren Fail. 2013;35(3):414-7. doi: 10.3109/0886022X.2012.760356. Epub 2013 Jan 24.

Abstract

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is a rare complication of antithyroid drug use that was first described with propylthiouracil. We describe an ANCA-associated rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis in a patient treated with carbimazole during 6 months for Graves disease that resulted in end-stage renal disease. A 66-year-old man treated with carbimazole for Graves disease was admitted for macroscopic hematuria and edema of the lower extremities. Laboratory work-up showed elevated serum creatinine (435 μmol/L), mixed hematuria, nephrotic range proteinuria, and a low positive c-ANCA titer with proteinase-3 specificity. Renal biopsy showed necrotizing, crescentic, pauci-immune glomerulonephritis. Carbimazole was discontinued and hemodialysis was initiated as well as high-dose glucocorticoids and pulses of intravenous cyclophosphamide. Despite immunosuppressive treatment, the patient remained dialysis-dependent at 6 months after diagnosis. Graves disease remained in remission after carbimazole withdrawal. ANCA-associated vasculitis manifesting as glomerulonephritis is a potential adverse effect of all antithyroid drugs. Although prognosis is usually good, end-stage renal disease may ensue in rare cases. Physicians should have a high index of suspicion in patients receiving antithyroid drugs who present with symptoms or signs suggestive of progressive renal disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis / chemically induced*
  • Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis / complications
  • Antithyroid Agents / adverse effects*
  • Carbimazole / adverse effects*
  • Glomerulonephritis / etiology*
  • Graves Disease / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / etiology
  • Male

Substances

  • Antithyroid Agents
  • Carbimazole