Idiopathic rapidly progressive (crescentic) glomerulonephritis in pregnancy

Idiopathic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis is an uncommon kidney disorder characterized by the rapid deterioration of renal function in association with glomerular crescent formation on renal biopsy. End-stage kidney failure is often the final outcome. There is only one complete case report of this condition during pregnancy. We describe a patient who initially presented with classic signs and symptoms of severe preeclampsia. She delivered a premature neonate that ultimately did well, but the mother subsequently demonstrated incremental deterioration in renal function. A kidney biopsy documented crescentic glomerulonephritis, and her clinical course was consistent with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.