| Abstract: | Positive anti-DNA-antibodies and lowered C3 and C4 levels were found in serum of a 13 year old girl presenting with edema, microscopic hematuria and proteinuria. Renal biopsy revealed diffuse endo- and extracapillary glomerulonephritis with mesangial deposits of IgA, IgG, IgM, C1q, C3 and fibrinogen. In spite of treatment with prednisone (60 mg/m2/d) severe nephrotic syndrome (proteinuria greater than 20/d) developed with excessive hypertension and deterioration of renal function (GFR: 20 ml/min./1,73m2 BSA). Plasma exchange therapy (3 sessions) led to recovery of renal function, blood pressure and complement activity and to a reduction of anti-DNA-antibodies and protein excretion. |
