Pemphigus foliaceus and proteinuria induced by alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine

Pemphigus foliaceus and proteinuria occurred in a patient with cystinuria treated with alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine. This drug is similar to D-penicillamine in structure and function, and it is being used in patients who are unable to tolerate D-penicillamine. Although side effects of D-penicillamine are common, no major adverse reactions have been reported previously with alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine. Pemphigus foliaceus and proteinuria occurring during therapy with alpha-mercaptopropionylglycine and D-penicillamine are discussed.