Early use of plasmapheresis for recurrent post-transplant FSGS

Pediatr Nephrol. 2003 Sep;18(9):934-8. doi: 10.1007/s00467-003-1208-z. Epub 2003 Jun 26.

Abstract

Recurrence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in an allograft is a challenging clinical situation because it frequently results in graft loss. We report our experience with early use of plasmapheresis in recurrent FSGS. Of the 18 (33%) children with biopsy-proven FSGS (in their native kidneys) transplanted at our institution, 6 had recurrence (elevated urine protein/creatinine ratios) post transplant and were treated with plasmapheresis. Patients who received treatment within 1 day of the recurrence (4/6) went into remission after 5-13 plasmapheresis treatments, within 5-27 days of starting treatment. Patients who did not respond to plasmapheresis (2/6) were treated 7 and 17 days after onset of proteinuria; 1 of these had acute tubular necrosis and acute rejection leading to graft loss and the other developed acute rejections, ongoing proteinuria, and subsequent graft loss. All 4 patients who went into remission have maintained good graft function, 22-53 months post transplant. In our experience early institution of plasmapheresis for recurrent post-transplant proteinuria in FSGS is effective.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental / surgery*
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Kidney Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Plasmapheresis*
  • Postoperative Complications / therapy
  • Proteinuria / therapy
  • Recurrence