[Drug-induced interstitial nephropathy with nephrotic syndrome]

A new syndrome is which immunoallergic interstitial nephropathy is associated with nephrotic syndrome has recently been described. The interstitial nephropathy is usually due to the consumption of non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and it is characterized by interstitial lesions associated with minimal glomerular lesions. The typical clinical complex includes nephrotic syndrome, renal impairment, eosinophilia, microscopic haematuria, leucocyturia and, more rarely, clinical signs of hypersensitivity. The outcome is favourable as a rule, with recovery of the renal function ad integrum and complete recession of the nephrotic syndrome. The pathogenesis of the syndrome is no entirely clear, but it probably implies a delayed hypersensitivity reaction. Treatment consists of withdrawing the responsible drug(s) and applying medical intensive care methods. Whether or not corticosteroids influence the rapidity and quality of recovery remains uncertain.