Insulin-like growth factor 1 enhances renal function in a patient with chronic renal failure on peritoneal dialysis

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) has been shown to improve renal function in healthy subjects, as well as those with chronic renal failure. To our knowledge, IGF1 has not been shown to be efficacious in patients who were already undergoing dialysis. We present the case of a 70-year-old woman with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and overt uremic symptoms treated with IGF1 after peritoneal dialysis was discontinued because of complications. There was a significant improvement in her inulin clearance during the course of treatment. The patient remained well and did not require dialytic support for 19 weeks. Although further data are necessary, we believe this case shows that IGF1 may be a short-term alternative to dialysis in patients with ESRD.