Glucocorticoids for the treatment of IgA nephropathy: pros and cons. Research data and own experience

IgA nephropathy is the most common pattern of primary glomerular diseases worldwide and remains a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. The incidence of IgA nephropathy is 2.5 per 100,000 population per year. Presentation ranges from isolated haematuria to significant proteinuria, acute kidney injury and even chronic kidney disease. The 10-year risk of progression to end stage kidney disease or halving of GFR is 26 %. The basis of management of IgA nephropathy is goal-directed supportive care in the form of rigorous blood pressure control, use of renin-angiotensin system blockers in the maximum tolerated dose, and a focus on life-style modification that includes smoking cessation, weight management, and restriction of sodium intake. Ho­wever, supportive therapy does not always achieve its goals and cannot affect the autoimmune pathogenesis of the disease, while the role of immunosuppressants and systemic glucocorticoids remains controversial. This review presents an analysis of clinical trials and our own experience regarding the role of steroids and supportive therapy in the treatment of IgA nephropathy.