Precision medicine in immunoglobulin A nephropathy: still a journey ahead

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease worldwide and since its first description extensive research has identified a number of key central pathogenetic contributors, including genetic, immunological and environmental factors. Along with its multifaceted pathophysiology, the clinical presentation of IgAN varies, ranging from mild forms with only minor urinary findings and preserved renal function to cases that rapidly progress to end-stage renal disease. Because of this, early identification of patients at risk for a progressive course is urgently needed. The search for valid and easily accessible biomarkers showed urinary Dickkopf-3 as a promising candidate to predict the course of kidney function. In addition, a recently established IgAN risk prediction tool derived from an international cohort of IgAN patients allows estimation of the risk of a 50% loss of kidney function over several years upon diagnosis. This might serve as a significant tool to individually predict the course of renal function by combining biometric, clinical, histological and treatment information at the time of diagnosis. Today there is no doubt that a comprehensive supportive treatment regimen is the main pillar for all IgAN patients. The value of an additional immunosuppressive treatment in IgAN patients at risk for disease progression is less clear. Early risk stratification and individualized therapies would be desirable for IgAN patients to facilitate the choice of treatment strategies, which is still a matter of ongoing discussion.