Remission of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type I with the use of tacrolimus

Abstract

Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, albeit uncommon, is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality in children. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy for severe disease, although data supporting their use are limited. We report our experience in treating two children with nephrotic-nephritic syndrome from idiopathic membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Both children experienced a suboptimal response to prolonged courses of steroids and were started on tacrolimus as a steroid-sparing agent. Rapid and complete remission was achieved in both children after initiation of tacrolimus. The purpose of our report is to increase awareness of health care professionals to the potential benefits of this agent in inducing remission in children with severe membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis.