USMLE Prep - Medical Reference Library

Membranous Nephropathy — Risk Stratification & Treatment

System: Nephrology • Reviewed: Aug 31, 2025 • Step 1Step 2Step 3

Synopsis:

Use anti‑PLA2R/THSD7A antibodies and risk stratification (proteinuria, eGFR) to guide therapy; ACEi/ARB and SGLT2i for all; immunosuppression for high‑risk or progressive disease.

Key Points

  • Stabilize ABCs; begin targeted evaluation without delaying life-saving therapy.
  • Use system-specific risk tools to guide testing and disposition.
  • Order high-yield tests first; escalate imaging when indicated.
  • Start evidence-based initial therapy and reassess frequently.

Algorithm

  1. Primary survey and vitals; IV access and monitors.
  2. Focused history/physical; identify red flags and likely etiologies.
  3. Order system-appropriate labs and imaging (see Investigations).
  4. Initiate guideline-based empiric therapy (see Pharmacology).
  5. Reassess response; arrange consultation and definitive management.

Clinical Synopsis & Reasoning

For Membranous Nephropathy Risk Stratification Treatment, frame the differential by acuity and pathophysiology, then align diagnostics to the leading hypotheses. Prioritize stabilization while obtaining high‑yield studies such as BMP (Renal/electrolytes), UA ± culture (Hematuria/proteinuria/infection), Renal ultrasound (selected) (Obstruction). Incorporate bedside imaging and targeted labs to define severity and identify complications; synthesize results with clinical trajectory to refine the working diagnosis and disposition needs.


Treatment Strategy & Disposition

Initiate disease‑directed therapy alongside supportive care, titrating to objective response. Pharmacologic options commonly include IV Fluids, Electrolyte repletion. Use validated frameworks (e.g., Risk‑Adapted Therapy (Examples)) to guide escalation and site of care. Address precipitating factors, de‑escalate empiric therapies with data, and arrange follow‑up for monitoring and risk‑factor modification; admit patients with instability, high risk of deterioration, or needs for close monitoring.


Management Notes

Discuss fertility and teratogenicity with cyclophosphamide. Provide thrombosis precautions.


Epidemiology / Risk Factors

  • CKD/AKI, nephrotoxins; obstruction

Investigations

TestRole / RationaleTypical FindingsNotes
BMPRenal/electrolytesAKI/lyte changes
UA ± cultureHematuria/proteinuria/infectionFindings vary
Renal ultrasound (selected)ObstructionHydronephrosis

Risk‑Adapted Therapy (Examples)

RiskApproach
Low/intermediateSupportive care; watchful waiting
High risk (proteinuria >4–8 g/d, declining eGFR)Rituximab or cyc+steroids
Relapse/persistentCNI ± low‑dose steroids
Secondary causesTreat underlying disease
MonitoringAnti‑PLA2R titers and proteinuria

Pharmacology

MedicationMechanismOnsetRole in TherapyLimitations
AcetaminophenAnalgesic/antipyreticHoursSymptom control as appropriateHepatotoxicity (overdose)
Ondansetron5-HT3 antagonismMinutesAntiemesis if neededQT prolongation

Prognosis / Complications

  • Reversibility by cause; electrolyte/volume complications

Patient Education / Counseling

  • Explain red flags and when to seek emergent care.
  • Reinforce medication adherence and follow-up plan.

References

  1. KDIGO Membranous GN Guideline — Link