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Prednisone improves renal function and proteinuria in human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy
M C Smith1, J L Austen, J T Carey
1Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
The American Journal of Medicine
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Prednisone treatment significantly improved kidney function and reduced proteinuria in adults with HIV-associated nephropathy (HIV-AN). While side effects occurred, they were manageable, suggesting potential benefits for HIV-AN patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy (HIV-AN) is a serious complication of HIV infection.
- Effective treatment options for HIV-AN remain limited, necessitating further research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of prednisone in treating human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy (HIV-AN).
- To assess changes in renal function and proteinuria following prednisone treatment in HIV-AN patients.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 20 HIV-infected adults with HIV-AN.
- Treatment with prednisone (60 mg/d) followed by a tapering course.
- Monitoring of serum creatinine, 24-hour proteinuria, and serum albumin pre- and post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in serum creatinine and 24-hour proteinuria were observed in most patients.
- Five patients relapsed but responded to re-treatment with prednisone.
- While some serious infections occurred, prednisone-related side effects were generally not prohibitive.
Conclusions:
- Prednisone demonstrates potential in improving renal parameters in a significant proportion of HIV-AN patients.
- Further investigation through a prospective, randomized controlled trial is warranted to confirm these findings.