C3 glomerulopathy.

Abstract

C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a rare kidney disease that causes kidney dysfunction as a result of dysregulation of the complement system alternate pathway (AP). C3G encompasses 2 separate disorders, C3 glomerulonephritis and dense deposit disease. The presentation and natural history is variable and kidney biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. The overall prognosis is poor with high recurrence rates after transplant. A better understanding of C3G is needed as is high-quality evidence to guide therapy, which currently includes mycophenolate mofetil and steroids for moderate to severe disease, and terminal complement blockade with anti-C5 therapy in unresponsive cases.