Treatment of Recurrent Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis in Pediatric Kidney Transplant Recipients: Effect of Rituximab
Author Information
Author(s): Christine Sethna, Corinne Benchimol, Hilary Hotchkiss, Rachel Frank, Lulette Infante, Suzanne Vento, Howard Trachtman
Primary Institution: Mount Sinai Medical Center
Hypothesis
Rituximab may be a useful treatment for recurrent focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in pediatric kidney transplant recipients.
Conclusion
Rituximab is a safe and well-tolerated treatment for recurrent FSGS in pediatric patients when used alongside plasmapheresis.
Supporting Evidence
- Three out of four children (75%) achieved complete remission after treatment.
- One child relapsed after four months but showed improvement after additional treatment.
- No adverse side effects were reported during the treatment or follow-up period.
Takeaway
This study looked at four kids who had kidney transplants and got sick again. They took a medicine called rituximab, and most of them got better.
Methodology
The study reviewed medical records of pediatric patients who received kidney transplants and developed recurrent FSGS treated with rituximab and plasmapheresis.
Limitations
The study lacked consistent B cell monitoring and could not definitively attribute outcomes to specific treatments.
Participant Demographics
Four pediatric patients (2 males, 2 females) aged 15.3 ± 2.6 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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