Optimizing Immunosuppression in Glomerular Diseases

Abstract

Dysregulation of the immune system can cause various glomerular diseases. Immunosuppressive drugs may be required to manage or retard their progression. Though a variety of immunosuppressive agents are available, there is seldom consensus on the choice of drugs, their combination, frequency, and duration. As most of these drugs have significant toxicity and can contribute to morbidity and mortality, their use should be optimized to obtain the best clinical effects while minimizing their adverse effects and cost. Herein, we review the published data on various drugs to treat common glomerular diseases like idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, primary membranous nephropathy, immunoglobulin A nephropathy, lupus nephritis, and renal vasculitis as the information may help to optimize individualized immunosuppressive treatment of these diseases.