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C3 glomerulonephritis along with light chain proximal tubulopathy without crystal deposits in multiple myeloma: a
Junhui Xu1, Xiaojuan Yu2, Suxia Wang3
1Department of Hematology, Peking University First Hospital, No.8 Xi Shi Ku Street, Xi ChengDistrict, Beijing, 100034, China.
Insights
Multiple myeloma can cause C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN). This case shows mild C3GN in a patient with high light chain levels, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Hematology
- Immunology
Background:
- Multiple myeloma is associated with various kidney injuries.
- C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN) involves abnormal complement C3 deposition due to alternative pathway activation.
- The link between C3GN and multiple myeloma is established, but mild C3GN with high light chain levels is less reported.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old man with IgA-type multiple myeloma presented with proteinuria.
- Renal biopsy revealed C3GN and light chain proximal tubulopathy.
- Despite elevated lambda serum-free light chains, the patient exhibited mild renal injury.
Findings:
- Treatment with chemotherapy (BD, PAD) and autologous stem cell transplantation led to a very good partial hematologic response.
- The patient maintained stable renal function post-treatment.
- Persistent high levels of light chains in multiple myeloma can lead to C3GN and renal impairment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of monitoring renal function in multiple myeloma patients, especially those with high light chain levels.
- Early identification and aggressive treatment strategies are crucial for managing C3GN in multiple myeloma.
- Understanding the interplay between light chains, complement activation, and kidney injury is key for improved patient prognosis.
Background:
Multiple myeloma causes different types of renal injury. C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN) is characterised by an abnormal deposition of complement C3 in the glomeruli due to abnormal activation of the alternative pathway of the complement system. While the association between C3GN and multiple myeloma has been well established, mild renal injury by C3GN in multiple myeloma patients with high levels of light chain has not been reported.
Case Presentation:
A 55-year-old Chinese man presented with proteinuria. Combined with immunofixation electrophoresis, bone marrow biopsy, and renal biopsy, he was diagnosed with IgA-type multiple myeloma accompanied by C3GN and light chain proximal tubulopathy without crystal deposits. Although he had a higher level of lambda serum-free light chain, the renal injury in this patient was mild. After treatment with four courses of BD, one course of PAD, and autologous stem cell transplantation, he achieved a very good partial hematologic response with stable renal function.
Conclusions:
In multiple myeloma, the light chain reaches a certain level and persists, resulting in C3GN renal impairment. Early diagnosis and early intensive treatment are critical for the prognosis of such patients.
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