FSGS permeability factor-associated nephrotic syndrome: remission after oral galactose therapy

Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2009 Sep;24(9):2938-40. doi: 10.1093/ndt/gfp278. Epub 2009 Jun 9.

Abstract

Some cases of nephrotic syndrome in focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are associated with a circulating factor, the FSGS permeability factor (FSPF). Galactose has a high affinity for FSPF, and experimental data suggest that it could reduce its activity. We describe the case of a 48-year-old male with a nephrotic syndrome found to be resistant to corticosteroids, immunosuppression and plasmaphaeresis. The patient was given oral galactose as a last resort treatment, which was followed by a remission of his nephrotic syndrome that correlated with a reduction of FSPF activity. This case is the first report of a long-standing remission of an FSPF-associated nephrotic syndrome on oral galactose therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Blood Proteins / metabolism*
  • Creatinine / blood
  • Galactose / administration & dosage*
  • Galactose / therapeutic use
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental / blood
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental / complications
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / blood*
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / etiology
  • Proteinuria / blood
  • Proteinuria / drug therapy
  • Proteinuria / etiology

Substances

  • Blood Proteins
  • Creatinine
  • Galactose