Minimal change disease in pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: New onset minimal change disease (MCD) is rare in pregnancy with the potential for serious complications including acute kidney injury (AKI).

CASE: A case of MCD was diagnosed at 19 weeks gestation by renal biopsy. Within one month of starting steroids, the patient experienced normalization of renal function and resolution of nephrotic syndrome, although hemodialysis was needed as a temporizing measure.

CONCLUSION: The differential diagnosis for new onset proteinuria in pregnancy should include MCD. In selected cases, renal biopsy can be used to confirm diagnosis, and when indicated, hemodialysis should be instituted while awaiting a response to steroid therapy.