Mycophenolate mofetil therapy in children with idiopathic membranous nephropathy

Background: Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is a rare form of childhood nephropathy. To date there are no standardized protocols of management for this condition in children. The aim of this study is to report on 4 children with IMN who were treated with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). Methods: MMF was given in combination with low dose steroids and angiotensin converting enzyme antagonists in a dose of 1,200 mg/m(2) body surface area in two divided doses for a minimum of 6 months. Results: All children had histopathological findings in keeping with Stage III membranous nephropathy. At the last hospital visit, 3 children had achieved a > 50% reduction of proteinuria with preservation of renal function. One patient who failed to respond progressed to Stage III chronic kidney disease. None of the children who were treated with MMF experienced any major side effects of the drug. Conclusions: MMF, administered over a limited period, served as a safe and effective immunosuppressive agent in the treatment of this condition, in conjunction with low dose steroids and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors. Large multi-center randomized studies of children with IMN are necessary to assess the efficacy and long term safety of MMF.