Randomized controlled trial of mizoribine for progressive IgA nephropathy

INTERVENTION: Methylprednisolone pulse therapy followed by oral prednisolone administration Methylprednisolone pulse therapy followed by oral prednisolone and mizoribine administration CONDITION: IgA nephropathy with moderate to severe histological alterations PRIMARY OUTCOME: Altered amounts of proteinuria SECONDARY OUTCOME: Alteration of serum creatinine (SCr) and the slope of reciprocal SCr INCLUSION CRITERIA: Patients with IgA nephropathy who underwent renal biopsy and provided a written informed consent prior to study by reading and signing the form. 1) Patients who have 5 or more of glomerular score*. 2) Patients who are between 15 and 60 years of age. 3) Patients who have potential to receive methylprednisolone pulse therapy on inpatient basis, and thereafter to receive routine medical treatment as outpatients. *(Katafuchi R et al.Clin Nephrol 49,1998)