Recurrent Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis After Kidney Transplantation: Risk Factors and Impact on Graft Survival

BACKGROUND: Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is an uncommon cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Recurrence rates after transplantation range from 11.8% to 18.9% after 5 and 15 years, respectively. This study aimed to assess the risk factors of MPGN recurrence after kidney transplantation and its impact on graft survival. MATERIAL/METHODS: This was a single-center retrospective cohort, including renal transplant recipients older than 18 years, with a diagnosis of MPGN in native kidneys. Data were obtained from medical records during the first 5-year post-transplant follow-up. Primary endpoints were graft function and survival. Secondary endpoints were MPGN recurrence risk factors and these cases’ clinical, laboratory, and histological features. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients were included; the majority male (60.7%), with a mean age of 24.0±9.4 years. At MPGN native diagnosis, all patients presented proteinuria, with C3 consumption in 42.9%. Histological analysis showed 13 (42.9%) MPGN type I and 5 (17.9%) type II, with no cases of type III. MPGN recurrence occurred in 7 (25.0%) patients; 85.7% were male, 57.1% were recipients from a living donor, all presenting nephrotic syndrome and hematuria, with C3 consumption in 71.4%. The graft function was similar between the groups. Two (28.6%) patients progressed to graft failure in the recurrence group, and 1 died with a functioning graft. CONCLUSIONS: The MPGN recurrence rate was 25%, most of them recipients of kidneys from living donors. Nephrotic syndrome and C3 consumption were frequent at recurrence. The graft function was similar between the groups, and the 5-year graft survival rate in the recurrence group was higher than in other studies.