Photodynamic therapy using verteporfin-induced minimal change nephrotic syndrome.

PURPOSE: To report a case of minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) after photodynamic therapy using verteporfin.

DESIGN

Interventional case report.

METHODS

After four cycles of photodynamic therapy, general weakness with generalized edema developed in an otherwise healthy 66-year-old woman, resulting in dyspnea and ascites. Urinalysis showed heavy proteinuria (4+) with decreased serum total protein and albumin, and increased total cholesterol levels, suggesting nephrotic syndrome. Renal biopsy and pathologic diagnosis were performed.

RESULTS

Renal biopsy revealed normal glomeruli and tubulointerstitium by light microscopy, with no immunoglobin or complement deposition. Transmission electron microscopy showed diffuse effacement of the foot processes of visceral epithelial cells, which is the characteristic finding of minimal change nephrotic syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

We herein report a case of minimal change nephrotic syndrome after photodynamic therapy using verteporfin.