[A patient with rheumatoid arthritis presenting a nephrotic syndrome: A case report]

A fifty-one years-old patient with a history of rheumatoid arthritis of recent diagnosis is hospitalized for exploration of a rapidly progressive anasarca state. First analysis discovered an impure nephrotic syndrome (acute renal failure, hematuria) and massive glomerular proteinuria. Auto-medication by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug was revealed. Renal biopsy showed minimal glomerular disease and acute tubular necrosis. Corticosteroid use permitted a normalization of proteinuria and renal recovery was obtained. Literature review showed renal impairment occurring in rheumatoid polyarthritis. Minimal glomerular disease is rare but can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This disease, associated with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, may be responsible of the patient condition.