What is the treatment for membranous nephropathy?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was diagnosed with membranous nephropathy two years ago. I was told that I was in remission. For the last four days, I have been struggling with intense pain in my kidneys, back, and stomach. I have lost my appetite, been sleeping loads, and feeling very weak and lethargic. I have also developed a wet cough. I went to see a GP, and he said he could see nothing wrong and put me on antibiotics if in case there was an infection. He also mentioned that the protein in my urine is high. I am very concerned and in a lot of pain. Paracetamol does not do anything. The pain started four days back, and I threw up the next night after trying to eat a meal. I have a hacking chesty cough, headaches, dizziness, tiredness, puffy face, weakness, and lethargy. Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Membranous nephropathy usually does not come with pain, and any pain around the kidneys should be evaluated in detail. Since protein in urine was high (3+), you are now in relapse. I want details of your last biopsy report. I suggest you do full investigations, including CBC (complete blood count), urea, creatinine, urine protein creatinine ratio, urine analysis, and abdomen ultrasound. Treatment for membranous nephropathy should be started if the pain is not resolving within six weeks. I suggest you take a tablet of Ultracet (Tramadol and Acetaminophen) for pain. If gross swelling is noted in your body, then diuretics should be taken. Monitor blood pressure frequently and respond with the reports and previous biopsies, as a biopsy provides clues to know what is happening inside your kidney. I can help you get full remission again. I hope you find this helpful.

Thank you.