Treatment of renal ANCA-associated vasculitides

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV) are a group of small vessel vasculitides which commonly affect the kidneys, manifesting as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. In this review, we present different treatment methods (e. g. cyclophosphamide, rituximab, plasma exchange) used for remission induction and maintenance in renal AAV. We also discuss treatment options in relapsing and refractory disease and for patients with end-stage renal disease due to AAV. In addition, we enumerate the various risk factors associated with relapsing and refractory disease, quality of life impairment and decreased renal and patient survival in AAV. Finally we present information on new, potentially applicable agents which can further help modify the disease course, thereby leading to increased patient survival.