[Recurrent post-infectious immune complex glomerulonephritis with persistent activation of the alternative complement...

Recurring upper respiratory tract infections in a previously healthy 4 years old boy led to an acute nephritic syndrome requiring haemodialysis. Renal biopsy showed poststreptococcal like immune complex glomerulonephritis with subepithelial humps, C3 deposition and crescent formation. Renal function improved after methyl-prednisolone pulse therapy. Two relapses occurred in the following six months which responded to immunosuppressive therapy. 21 months following the first presentation the boy has normal glomerular filtration rate but persistent glomerular proteinuria and haematuria. Detailed complement analyses revealed a persistent activation of the alternate pathway.