Relapsing polychondritis with segmental necrotizing glomerulonephritis

Am J Nephrol. 1984;4(6):375-8. doi: 10.1159/000166856.

Abstract

Glomerulonephritis is a very unusual feature of relapsing polychondritis. A 16-year-old woman presented with microscopic hematuria and severe renal insufficiency during the course of relapsing polychondritis. A renal biopsy specimen disclosed focal segmental proliferative glomerulonephritis with necrotizing lesions and crescent formation. Immunofluorescent studies suggested immune complex mediated glomerular injury. The renal involvement appeared during high-dose steroid therapy. Subsequently, she was treated by adding plasmapheresis and cyclophosphamide during 6 weeks, with sustained improvement. A regimen of plasmapheresis and immunosuppression warrants consideration for use in cases of relapsing polychondritis with glomerulonephritis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Cyclophosphamide / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Glomerulonephritis / complications*
  • Glomerulonephritis / drug therapy
  • Glomerulonephritis / pathology
  • Glomerulonephritis / therapy
  • Humans
  • Kidney / pathology
  • Plasmapheresis
  • Polychondritis, Relapsing / complications*
  • Polychondritis, Relapsing / drug therapy
  • Polychondritis, Relapsing / pathology
  • Polychondritis, Relapsing / therapy
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Prednisone