Rituximab for Refractory or Relapsed Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis or Minimal Change Disease

Efficacy and Safety of Rituximab in Adult Patients With Refractory or Relapsed Primary Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis or Minimal Change Disease

Various studies have been conducted to identify effective treatment strategies for primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and minimal change disease (MCD) so far. In the light of these studies, corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors have been the treatment of choice and mycophenolic acid derivatives have been seen as a second line agent. However, treatment options in refractory or relapsed cases are still under debate. Recently, rituximab has become an alternative in those patients. Therefore, a study based on registry data was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rituximab in adult patients suffering from a relapsed or refractory primary FSGS or MCD.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Having biopsy-proven focal segmental glomerulosclerosis or minimal change disease.
• Showing resistance to or relapsing after at least one set of prior therapies including corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors or mycophenolic acid derivatives.
• Having a history of rituximab use (375 mg/m2/wk for 1-4 weeks) following resistance to or relapse after aforementioned agents.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not providing or withdrawing consent.