Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis with acute renal failure associated with α-interferon therapy

Both α- and β- interferons (IFNs) have been increasingly used for the treatment of many types of malignancy, and recently the use of α-IFN in the management of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with or without renal involvement has been emphasized. We report a patient who developed nephrotic syndrome and acute renal failure while being treated with α-IFN for HCV infection. The renal biopsy showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial nephritis. Although several renal lesions have been described in association with either α-IFN treatment or HCV infection, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis has not been emphasized in either instance. This case also indicates that when renal abnormalities occur during treatment of HCV infection with α-IFN, kidney biopsy may define the responsible renal lesions, suggest possible association with other conditions, and serve as a guideline for proper management.