Interferon β associated nephropathy in a Multiple Sclerosis patient: A case and review.

BACKGROUND: Interferon beta (IFN β) subtypes are largely used as immunomodulatory agents in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) treatment. While being generally well tolerated, they can cause various side effects. Adverse effects related to kidney are rarely reported.

CASE REPORT: We report a 32 years old male patient who developed nephrotic syndrome while receiving IFN β for MS. Biopsy showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. He went into remisson after cessation of drug and with the aid of angiotensin II antagonists. Here, we report this case and a review of similar cases reported in literature.

CONCLUSIONS: Although it's a rare adverse effect and tend to show good prognosis physicians should pay careful attention to symptoms and findings of nephropathy during follow ups of patients under treatment with these agents.