Anti-phospholipase A2 Receptor Membranous Nephropathy Presenting as Common Geriatric Complaints: A Case Report
Anti-phospholipase A2 receptor (anti-PLA2R) antibodies are an established cause of primary membranous nephropathy (MN). However, typical symptoms of proteinuria, such as peripheral oedema and frothy urine, are not easily identified in the elderly, and other non-specific presentations, such as hypoglycaemia and fluid overload, may lead to delays in diagnosis. We report a case of anti-PLA2R-associated MN in an elderly woman who presented with fluid overload and recurrent hypoglycaemia, both of which are common in this age group. Renal function and anti-PLA2R antibody titres improved substantially following treatment with rituximab. This case underscores the importance of early clinical suspicion and timely intervention in elderly patients in order to preserve residual renal function and optimise outcomes.
Authors
- Oi Yee Lin
- Kwan Hung Wu
- Wai Tak Victor Li
Institutions
- Queen Mary Hospital (CN)
- Tung Wah Hospital (CN)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Cureus
- Published
- 2026-01-21
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.101983
- Primary Topic
- Renal Diseases and Glomerulopathies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00