News

Kidney International®  

A randomized controlled non-inferiority trial examined lower dose prednisolone and activated vitamin D in adult minimal change podocytopathy 

This study tested whether lower-dose prednisolone combined with activated vitamin D could match standard high-dose prednisolone for remission in adults with minimal change disease while reducing steroid toxicity.  

Although non-inferiority was not formally established, the lower-dose regimen achieved similar remission and relapse outcomes with substantially less steroid exposure and fewer safety concerns. 

The findings suggest the regimen may offer a safer alternative for some patients, though further evidence is needed before replacing standard treatment. 

Kidney International Reports®  

Septic shock and severe AKI caused by West Nile virus in southern France  

This case report describes a severe West Nile virus (WNV) infection in southern France presenting as septic shock with severe acute kidney injury (AKI), despite no early neurological symptoms.  

Using urine protein-creatinine ratio, serology, and phylogenetic analysis, the authors supported a diagnosis of locally acquired WNV with renal involvement. The patient required prolonged renal replacement therapy and had incomplete recovery, progressing to chronic kidney disease. 

The case highlights the need to consider WNV in unexplained shock with cytopenia during transmission season and to ensure long-term kidney follow-up after WNV-associated AKI.