Data show that it is very difficult to ascertain which patients will benefit from immunosuppressive therapy. This points to the necessity for comprehensive genetic testing and complement data to determine which subgroup of patients will benefit from immunomodulatory treatment. When appropriate, immunosuppression can help to alter the disease course for certain patients with C3G but not for all patient populations.
Monoclonal gammopathy is not commonly an underlying cause of C3G; it accounts for approximately 5% of C3G cases. However, in the cases where it is an underlying cause, referral to a hematologist is warranted and treatment with either chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy is needed to achieve a hematologic response.
C3 nephritic factor is the most common autoantibody detected in patients with C3G. Monoclonal immunoglobulin–targeted treatment may result in remission and stabilization of kidney function in some patients but have little to no effect in others. Data from the GLOSEN group show that patients who were positive for C3 nephritic factor had a higher incidence of remission on immunosuppressive therapy.
Learn more about immunosuppressive therapy.
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Cite this: A. Brent Alper. Fast Five Quiz: C3G Management - Medscape - Apr 24, 2023.
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