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Published on: June 8, 2022
C3 nephritic factor associated with C3 glomerulopathy in children
Camille Nicolas1, Vincent Vuiblet, Veronique Baudouin
1Department of Pediatrics, Nephrology unit, CHU de Reims, Reims, France.
C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) in children associated with C3 nephritic factor (C3NeF) shows varied symptoms and outcomes. Anti-proteinuric treatments may help manage the condition, but immunosuppressive therapy effectiveness is uncertain.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Complement System Biology
- Pediatric Nephrology
Background:
- C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) involves abnormal complement alternative pathway activity and C3 deposition in kidneys.
- C3 nephritic factor (C3NeF) is present in half of C3G patients, encompassing dense deposit disease (DDD) and C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate pediatric cases of C3G specifically associated with C3NeF.
- To analyze the clinical presentation, renal histology, and outcomes in children with C3NeF-associated C3G.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 18 pediatric C3G cases with C3NeF.
- Analysis of clinical data, kidney biopsy findings (C3GN, DDD), and complement levels (C3, sC5b9).
- Exclusion of patients with identified mutations in CFH, CFI, and MCP genes.
Main Results:
- Presentations included recurrent hematuria, nephrotic syndrome, acute kidney injury, and post-infectious glomerulonephritis.
- Low C3 levels were observed in 12 patients; kidney biopsies revealed C3GN (10) and DDD (8).
- Relapse occurred in 7 patients; long-term outcomes included dialysis (2), persistent proteinuria (11), and variable treatment responses.
Conclusions:
- C3NeF-associated C3G in children presents heterogeneously with diverse clinical courses.
- Anti-proteinuric agents show potential for disease control, even post-nephrotic syndrome.
- The efficacy of immunosuppressive treatments like steroids requires further investigation.
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