Comparison of immunosuppressive therapeutic regimens in patients with nephrotic syndrome due to idiopathic membranous nephropathy.

In this prospective randomized trial, we compared the effects of cyclosporine- and cyclophosphamide-based treatment regimens in patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. Twenty-eight patients were randomized to receive treatment with one of the three therapeutic regimens: cyclosporine with methylprednisolone, cyclophosphamide with methylprednisolone or lisinopril (control). Renal function and nephrotic syndrome parameters were determined at baseline and during a 9-month treatment period.