Clinical response to prolonged corticosteroids in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy.

Human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is characterized by massive proteinuria with rapidly progressive renal failure. We report an adult with HIV infection who developed nephrotic-range proteinuria and acute renal failure requiring hemodialysis. Renal biopsy findings were consistent with HIVAN, exhibiting focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis with dilated microcystic tubules filled with pale eosinophilic material. Institution of corticosteroid therapy was followed by significant improvement in renal function and proteinuria. Corticosteroids were tapered, and the patient experienced worsening of his renal failure and proteinuria. A second course of corticosteroids was again associated with improved renal function. This and other reports suggest that corticosteroids may improve the clinical course of HIVAN.