Transformation of hepatitis B virus-related membranous glomerulonephritis to crescentic form

We report a case of hepatitis B virus- (HBV) related membranous glomerulone phritis which progressed to crescentic transformation after withdrawal of i mmunosupressive treatment. Immunosupressive therapy probably enhanced HBV r eplication, and its withdrawal led to a return of immune competence resulti ng in progression of the glomerulonephritis. Prior screening of all patient s for hepatitis B surface antigen, before using immunosupressive therapy ma y prevent this complication. The usage of immunosupressive therapy as a fir st-line choice in REV-related glomerulonephritis may result in harmful comp lications.