Reversible minimal change nephrotic syndrome and glomerular IgA deposition associated with nonparenteral heroin abuse: a case report

Med Princ Pract. 2012;21(5):492-4. doi: 10.1159/000337941. Epub 2012 Apr 25.

Abstract

Objective: To report for the first time a case of reversible minimal change nephrotic syndrome with immunoglobulin A (IgA) deposition associated with heroin.

Clinical presentation and intervention: A 29-year-old male heroin abuser who developed nephrotic syndrome was admitted to our clinic. Renal biopsy revealed minimal change disease with IgA deposition. Because spontaneous complete remission was observed after cessation of heroin, a diagnosis of minimal change nephrotic syndrome with IgA deposition associated with heroin abuse was considered.

Conclusion: This case showed minimal change nephrotic syndrome with IgA deposition that had a benign clinical course.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Heroin Dependence / complications*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin A / metabolism*
  • Kidney Function Tests
  • Male
  • Nephrosis, Lipoid / diagnosis
  • Nephrosis, Lipoid / etiology*
  • Nephrosis, Lipoid / pathology
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / etiology*
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / pathology
  • Remission Induction

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin A