Treatment of Membranous Nephropathy Using Rituximab

Abstract

The aim is to analyse rituximab as a potential treatment for membranous nephropathy, its efficacy, and adverse effects. Study method- a systematic literature review. A search for scientific publications was performed using the Medline (Pubmed) and Google Scholar search systems. The selected articles are written in English. Results. In 8 selected studies selected population was 324 patients. Total or partial remission was seen in 35- 100% patients, 24h proteinuria decreased significantly to all patients. Rituximab was effective when it came to long term proteinuria decrease and improvement of GFR. Adverse effects were mild or insignificant, and patients tolerated the agent well. The most common side effects were infusion-related reactions, cardiovascular compli­cations, or infections. Conclusions. Based on these studies, Rituximab is an effective treatment for membranous nephropathy. It is a safe agent with less adverse effects which are mild and do not require hospitalization. Although therapy consisting of alkylating agents and steroids is still recommended for patients with very high-risk kidney disease, rituximab is an alternative option for patients at moderate/high risk of kidney damage.