Effects of Hydroxychloroquine on Proteinuria in IgA Nephropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Biomed Res Int. 2021 Dec 3:2021:9171715. doi: 10.1155/2021/9171715. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

Introduction: The present meta-analysis was to explore the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in IgA nephropathy patients in terms of proteinuria.

Method: We systematically searched PubMed and Embase for studies that compared HCQ and other treatments to reduce proteinuria in patients with IgA nephropathy up to June 2021. Mean ± SD of percentage change and level of proteinuria was calculated.

Results: A total of 5 studies with 587 participants were included. IgA nephropathy patients who received HCQ were at a lower level of mean proteinuria at 6 months. However, there was no statistical difference between HCQ and control group considering percentage reduction in proteinuria. The long-term therapeutic effect of HCQ might be inferior to HCQ and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibition.

Conclusion: HCQ might play a role in the reduction of proteinuria in IgA nephropathy patients. The addition of HCQ to other immunosuppressive agents should be clarified further.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Glomerulonephritis, IGA / drug therapy*
  • Glomerulonephritis, IGA / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Hydroxychloroquine / therapeutic use*
  • Immunoglobulin A / metabolism*
  • Proteinuria / drug therapy*
  • Proteinuria / metabolism
  • Renin-Angiotensin System / drug effects

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin A
  • Hydroxychloroquine