Membranoproliferative GN associated with hepatitis C infection is treated with which antiviral regimen?

• A. Interferon and ribavirin
• B. Prednisone
• C. Cyclophosphamide
• D. Rituximab

Answer: (A)

Hepatitis C–associated membranoproliferative GN is driven by ongoing HCV infection that leads to immune complex–mediated glomerular injury; controlling the virus often reduces the immune response causing the kidney damage. The antiviral regimen of interferon plus ribavirin targets the virus directly: interferon enhances the body's antiviral response, while ribavirin inhibits viral replication, together lowering HCV RNA levels and decreasing cryoglobulinemia and immune complex deposition in the kidney. This approach addresses the root cause of the nephritis, which is why it’s the best choice. Other options—steroids, cyclophosphamide, or rituximab—treat immune or inflammatory aspects but do not eradicate the underlying HCV infection, and are not considered antiviral regimens.