Membranous nephropathy

Alternative Names

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Symptoms should be treated as appropriate. Medications vary and may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, blood pressure medications, and antibiotics (to control infections).

High blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels should be treated to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis secondary to nephrotic syndrome. A low-fat, low-cholesterol diet may be of limited benefit as the high levels of cholesterol and triglyceride seem to be caused by overproduction by the liver rather than eating too much fat. Medications to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides may be recommended.

The value of a high-protein diets has been debated. In many patients, reducing the amount of protein in the diet produces decrease in protein in the urine. In most cases, a moderate-protein diet (1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day) is usually recommended.

Restricting salt may be help control edema. Vitamin D may need to be replaced if nephrotic syndrome is chronic and does not respond to therapy.

This disease increases the risk for blood clots in the lungs and legs.Patients are occasionally prescribed blood thinners to prevent these complications.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outlook varies. There may be symptom-free periods and acute flare ups. In some cases, the condition may go away with or without therapy.

The majority of patients will have some degree of irreversible kidney damage within 2-20 years. About 20% of those will progress to end-stage renal disease.

Possible Complications

• Nephrotic syndrome
• Chronic renal failure
• End-stage renal disease
• Renal vein thrombosis
• Pulmonary embolism

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate membranous nephropathy may be present. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms worsen or persist, if you experience a decreased urine output or other new symptom develops.