Sarcoidosis complicated by minimal change glomerulopathy: A case report and literature review

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1004-583X.2026.05.010

Abstract

Abstract:

Objective To investigate the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of sarcoidosis complicated by minimal change glomerulopathy. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the diagnosis and treatment of one case of sarcoidosis complicated by minimal change glomerulopathy and reviewed the relevant literature from China and abroad. Results We report a 72-year-old woman who was diagnosed with sarcoidosis 2 years earlier and had previously received treatment with methylprednisolone, leflunomide, and tripterygium glycosides. She was admitted because of edema of the lower extremities, massive proteinuria, and hypoalbuminemia. After admission, renal biopsy confirmed minimal change glomerulopathy complicated by acute tubular necrosis. Methylprednisolone was initially administered at 80 mg once daily, and the dose was later adjusted to 48 mg once daily. After systematic treatment, the patient’s renal function recovered and nephrotic syndrome achieved complete remission. The glucocorticoid dose was gradually tapered, and no recurrence of nephrotic syndrome was observed during follow-up. Conclusion This case is one of the few reported cases of sarcoidosis complicated by isolated minimal change glomerulopathy and responsive to glucocorticoid therapy. The findings may provide new insights into the etiology and potential immune mechanisms of sarcoidosis complicated byminimal change glomerulopathy.

Key words: sarcoidosis, minimal change glomerulopathy, glucocorticoids

CLC Number:

R593.9

Yu Baisong, Dong Chunxia, Hu Zhijuan, Liu Bing. Sarcoidosis complicated by minimal change glomerulopathy: A case report and literature review[J]. Clinical Focus, 2026, 41(5): 452-456.

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URL: https://www.lchc.cn/EN/10.3969/j.issn.1004-583X.2026.05.010

https://www.lchc.cn/EN/Y2026/V41/I5/452

Figures/Tables 4

Fig.1 Histopathological findings of the lung nodules a. Nodule in the upper lobe of the left lung; b. Nodule in the lower lobe of the right lung

Fig.2 Chest CT a.March 2024; b.August 2024

Fig.3 Renal biopsy immunofluorescence a. Immunoglobulin G negative; b.Fibrinogen negative

Fig.4 Renal biopsy light microscopy a. Periodic acid-Schiff staining; b. Periodic acid-Schiff/ Masson trichrome staining

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