Membranous nephropathy treatment standard

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is characterized by deposition of immune complexes leading to thickening of glomerular basement membranes. Over time, the understanding of MN has evolved, with the identification of specific autoantibodies against novel podocyte antigens and the unraveling of intricate pathogenic pathways. Although the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab is favored as part of the initial therapy in MN, a subgroup of MN patients may be resistant to rituximab necessitating the use of alternative agents such as cytotoxic therapies. In addition, newer agents such as novel anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, therapies targeting the CD38-positive plasma cells and anti-complement therapy are being studied in patients who are resistant to traditional treatment strategies. This manuscript furnishes a review of the novel developments in the pathophysiology of MN including the identification of target antigens and current treatment standards for MN, concentrating on evidenced-based interventions designed to attain remission and to prevent disease progression. 10.1093/ndt/gfad225 Video Watch the video of this contribution at https://academic.oup.com/ndt/pages/author_videos gfad225Media1 6340549479112

Automated summary

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a disease characterized by the deposition of immune complexes leading to thickening of glomerular basement membranes. The understanding of MN has evolved, with the identification of specific autoantibodies against novel podocyte antigens and the unraveling of intricate pathogenic pathways. Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, is favored as the initial therapy for MN, but some patients may be resistant to it, requiring alternative agents for treatment.