Rituximab as Initial Therapy in Adult Patients With Minimal Change Disease
Nan Guan, Min Zhang, Min Zhang, Ruiying Chen, Qionghong Xie, Chuan‐Ming Hao
Abstract
Minimal change disease (MCD) accounts for 10% to 15% of primary nephrotic syndrome in adults.1 Although spontaneous remission can occur in MCD, untreated nephrotic syndrome leads to increased morbidity, including acute kidney injury, thromboembolic events, and infections.2 Therefore, the goal of treatment is to achieve and sustain remission. Glucocorticoids are currently the firstline therapy of MCD. However, drug related adverse effects remain a big concern for many patients.3 Recently, several studies showed that tacrolimus monotherapy is noninferior to glucocorticoids for inducing remission in new-onset MCD in adults, which provides alternative regimen for patients concerned about the side effects of glucocorticoids.