Successful pregnancy in a patient with IgA nephropathy treated with telitacicept: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common cause of primary glomerulonephritis, with complex pathogenic mechanisms involving abnormal B-cell activation. As a novel biologic agent, telitacicept inhibits both B-lymphocyte stimulating factor and a proliferation-inducing ligand. It also inhibits both B cells and plasma cells and the production of galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) and its autoantibodies, thus exerting an immunosuppressive effect. Women with IgAN are at a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia and miscarriage, especially those with uncontrolled massive proteinuria and advanced chronic kidney disease. Therefore, IgAN disease control before and during pregnancy is essential. Here, we report the case of a woman with IgAN who had a successful pregnancy with significant improvement and long-term remission after treatment with telitacicept. This is the first report of a pregnancy following exposure to telitacicept. Case report. Conclusion This report describes the efficacy of telitacicept in patients with IgAN and explores its value in women of childbearing age, suggesting effective and safe treatment options for women who wish to conceive.

Keywords

• Case report
• IgA nephropathy
• Pregnancy
• Telitacicept
• Long-lived plasma cells