proteinuria due to penicillamine

Last reviewed 01/2018

In up to 30% of cases, penicillamine causes proteinuria associated with IgM mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis.

Patients on penicillamine should have regular urine checks to screen for proteinuria as the condition is usually reversed by stopping the drug.

Since the condition may resolve despite continuation of treatment, treatment may be continues so long as:

• Renal function tests are normal
• There is no oedema
• 24 hour urinary excretion of protein does not exceed 2g.