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Published on: September 15, 2017
ANCA-positive periaortic vasculitis: does it fall within the spectrum of vasculitis?
A Vaglio1, L Manenti, L Allegri
1Department of Clinical Medicine, Nephrology and Health Science, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
Abstract:
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a disease of unknown aetiology that has sometimes been reported in association with connective tissue disorders and systemic vasculitis. We report here two cases of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-positive RPF showing clinical evidence of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Although treatment with prednisone and cyclophosphamide led to a remission of RPF in both cases, renal function was restored in only one patient and the other progressed to chronic renal failure. The paper reviews the literature concerning ANCA-positive RPF and discusses the relationship between ANCA-positive vasculitis and RPF.
Insights
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-positive retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) can cause rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. While immunosuppressive treatment may induce RPF remission, it doesn't always restore kidney function.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare condition of unknown cause.
- RPF has been associated with connective tissue disorders and systemic vasculitis.
- Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is a potential, though uncommon, cause of RPF.
Observation:
- This paper presents two cases of ANCA-positive RPF with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.
- Both patients received treatment with prednisone and cyclophosphamide.
- Clinical data on the outcomes of these treatments are detailed.
Findings:
- Immunosuppressive therapy achieved remission of RPF in both cases.
- However, only one patient experienced restoration of renal function.
- The other patient progressed to end-stage renal disease, necessitating chronic renal failure management.
Implications:
- ANCA-positive RPF presents a significant risk for irreversible kidney damage.
- Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for managing ANCA-positive RPF.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and optimize treatment strategies for ANCA-positive RPF to improve renal outcomes.
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