Recurrent focal segmental glomerulosclerosis after kidney transplantation

Pediatr Nephrol. 2015 Oct;30(10):1793-802. doi: 10.1007/s00467-015-3062-1. Epub 2015 Feb 19.

Abstract

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is an important cause of glomerular disease in children and adolescents and nearly 50 % of affected patients will progress to end-stage kidney disease over a 5 to 10-year period. Unfortunately, there is no established treatment for disease in the native kidney. Moreover, up to 55 % of patients develop recurrent disease after receiving a kidney transplant, with a substantially higher risk in patients who have already experienced recurrent disease in a prior transplant. A number of clinical and laboratory factors have been identified as risk factors for this complication. In addition, new investigations into podocyte biology and circulating permeability factors have shed light on the cause of recurrent the disease. While a number of novel therapeutic agents have been applied in the management of this problem, there still is no proven treatment. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of recurrent FSGS in pediatric patients who have received a kidney transplant.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental* / epidemiology
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental* / etiology
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / surgery*
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Plasmapheresis / methods*
  • Recurrence
  • Risk Factors