Evaluation of the efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil treatment in lupus nephritis

Objective To investigate the efficacy and safety of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) treatment of lupus nephritis. Method 20 patients with lupus nephritis confirmed by renal biopsy were treated by combined prednisone and MMF therapy. Results The initial dosage of MMF was 1.0～1.5 g/d. The treatment duration was 10.9±6.2 months (range 3～21 months). After treatment, 24 hours urinary protein excretion decreased from 5.55 g to 1.54 g, serum albumin increased from 26.87 g/L to 39 g/L.6 of 8 patients with renal insufficiency. The serum creatinine fell to normal. Serum autoimmune antibodies reduced significantly, while complements were increased. Negative conversion rate of ANA was 63% within 3 months and 81% in 6 months,the anti ds DNA antibody reduced from 23.77IU/ml to 9.19IU/ml. Two patients underwent a second biopsy , the glomerula activity index improved significantly. The side effects of MMF were uncommon, leukopenia, infection and herpes zoster were seldom observed. Conclusion MMF can be used in lupus nephritis, especially in type Ⅳ, and in patients refractory to other convensional treatment regimes. There is no severe adverse effect with long term treatment. (Shanghai Med J, 2000,24∶81 84)