Minimal-change disease secondary to etanercept

Etanercept is a soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) receptor which is widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and other autoimmune inflammatory disorders. It is known for its relative lack of nephrotoxicity; however, there are reports on the development of nephrotic syndrome associated with the treatment with TNFα antagonists. Here, we describe a patient with psoriasis who developed biopsy-proven minimal-change disease (MCD) shortly after initiating etanercept. Our case is unique in that the MCD resolved after discontinuation of this medication, notably without the use of corticosteroids, strongly suggesting a drug-related phenomenon.