Abstrait

Interferon-beta therapy induced minimal change disease: A case report

Catriona Zammit, Justine Camilleri, Sarah Louise Galea, Stephen Holwill, Jesmar Buttigieg

Interferon-beta is recognized as first line treatment in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. Overall it is considered a safe drug; however, over the years there has been some concern on its effect on the kidneys. Here we present a case of nephrotic syndrome in a young lady suffering from relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis who had been on Interferon-beta-1a therapy for 8 months. Kidney biopsy was consistent with minimal change disease. The clinical condition started to improve gradually upon cessation of the Interferon therapy and concomitant treatment with prednisolone. The patient attained full and sustained remission after 8 weeks of therapy. This is the third documented case of minimal change disease secondary to therapy with Interferon-beta-1a. This case highlights the importance of regular urinary investigations during Interferon therapy.