Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis syndrome: course, pathomorphology and outcome (data of Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital 1996–2002)

Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis is rare but severe clinical syndrome, which results in end-stage renal disease if not treated. The prognosis can be improved with early diagnosis and aggressive treament. The aim of our study was to analyze retrospectively all cases of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, diagnosed in Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital since 1996 and to evaluate the clinical, laboratory, immunological, pathomorphological data, treatment and outcome in these patients. In period of 1996\u962002, 23 patients were treated in Departments of Nephrology, Rheumathology, and Pediatric Nephrology. Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis was observed in eldery persons, the mean age 46.48±5.28 years. In 21.74% of cases, patients were diagnosed Goodpasture syndrome, in 21.74% of cases immune complex disease and in 56.52% \u96 pauci immune glomerulonephritis which was mainly limited in kidney as necrotizing crescentic glomerulonephritis. Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis in most cases manifested by weakness, hypertension, fever, involvement of lower airways, infection. Renal biopsies were performed in 18 (78.26%) cases, lung biopsy was made for one patient. Biopsies were made on 30.56±7.41 day of hospitalization. Twenty-two (95.65%) patients received intravenous pulses with methylprednisolone and/or cyclophosphamide; 56.52% patients required dialysis. Renal function improved in 47.83% patients; 8 (34.78%) patients died. The causes of death were infections complications, progression of main disease and cardiac arrest