Treatment of children with Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis with mycophenolate mofetil.

BACKGROUND

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) can progress to Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis (HSPN), and the most effective management remains unclear. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for treating pediatric patients with HSPN and nephrotic-range proteinuria.

METHODS

Twelve children, seven boys and five girls, mean age 8.33 (range 6-12) years at the time of HSPN diagnosis with nephrotic-range proteinuria, were treated with MMF. All patients failed steroid treatment, and mean proteinuria at the time of MMF initiation was 5.6 g/d. MMF dosage ranged from 20 to 25 mg/kg per day. Patients also received an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (cliazapril) at MMF initiation. Mean follow-up was 3.9 (range 2.3-5.5) years.

RESULTS

All patients responded to MMF at a mean of 2.5 (range 1-4 months). Among the 12 patients, MMF was administered for 10 months in five, 12 months in six, and 15 months in one. At last follow-up, all patients had negative proteinuria and normal renal function, and no relapses were noted. No serious adverse effects of MMF were noted in any patient.

CONCLUSION

MMF is useful for treating pediatric patients with HSPN and nephrotic-range proteinuria.