Residual Renal Function: A Double-Edged Sword.

INTRODUCTION

Nephrotic syndrome may persist despite end-stage kidney disease and result in dyslipidaemia, thrombosis and a significantly increased cardiovascular risk. Treatment of refractory nephrotic syndrome includes surgical bilateral nephrectomy, renal artery embolization and pharmacologic nephrectomy.

CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of a haemodialysis patient with refractory nephrotic syndrome who underwent pharmacologic nephrectomy. The procedure decreased the patient's cardiovascular risk and enabled the patient to become a candidate for kidney transplantation.

CONCLUSION

In certain situations residual renal function may be harmful. In such instances, nephrectomy should be considered. Pharmacologic nephrectomy using nephrotoxic drugs is a non-invasive approach with least potential complications.