Aspirin and Eicosapentaenoic Acid May Arrest Progressive IgA Nephropathy: A Potential Alternative to Immunosuppression

Intern Med. 2015;54(18):2377-82. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.54.4623. Epub 2015 Sep 15.

Abstract

Immunoglobulin (Ig) A nephropathy is a prevalent form of primary glomerulonephritis, which leads to end-stage renal failure in a significant proportion of patients. Immunotherapy, including steroid use, is widely used to induce disease remission; however, it can cause serious side effects. We herein report 3 cases of progressive IgA nephropathy and their successful treatment with a combination of aspirin and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) without the use of steroids. The precise mechanism responsible for the combination therapy is still unknown; however, aspirin may potentiate the production of anti-inflammatory lipid mediators derived from EPA. Further clinical trials are required to substantiate this treatment regimen.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use*
  • Aspirin / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Eicosapentaenoic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Glomerulonephritis, IGA / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Eicosapentaenoic Acid
  • Aspirin