Focal segmental glomerular sclerosis ameliorated by long-term hemodialysis therapy with low-density lipoprotein apheresis

Abstract

We report a case involving a 43-year-old Japanese woman with steroid-resistant focal segmental glomerular sclerosis (FSGS) and severe renal dysfunction, which was ameliorated by low-density lipoprotein apheresis (LDL-A). She had been treated with steroid therapy, but had experienced anuria for over 10 weeks and required hemodialysis. She was then treated with LDL-A, which resulted in improved urinary protein excretion and renal function. Her renal function recovered after 97 days of hemodialysis therapy. This case suggests that LDL-A may represent an effective rescue treatment in patients with FSGS and long-term anuria.