1
|
Viejo-Boyano I, Moreno-Abenza G, Álvarez-Muñoz AS, Pérez-Rojas J, Martínez-I-Cózar V, Garrigós-Almerich E, Hernández-Jaras J. Fibrillary glomerulonephritis: more frequent than it seems? The diagnostical importance of immunohistochemistry. Nefrologia 2024; 44:608-611. [PMID: 39097514 DOI: 10.1016/j.nefroe.2023.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Iris Viejo-Boyano
- Department of Nephrology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Gema Moreno-Abenza
- Department of of Anatomical Pathology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.
| | | | - Judith Pérez-Rojas
- Department of of Anatomical Pathology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Vicent Martínez-I-Cózar
- Department of of Anatomical Pathology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.
| | | | - Julio Hernández-Jaras
- Department of Nephrology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Miao J, Herrmann SM, Obaidi Z, Caza T, Bonilla M. Paraprotein-Mediated Glomerular Diseases. ADVANCES IN KIDNEY DISEASE AND HEALTH 2024; 31:358-373. [PMID: 39084761 DOI: 10.1053/j.akdh.2024.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Paraproteinemias are a group of complex diseases associated with an overproduction of a monoclonal immunoglobulin that can cause a diversity of kidney disorders and end-organ damage. In this review, we focus on paraprotein-mediated glomerular diseases. Kidney biopsy plays a crucial role in diagnosing these disorders, enabling the identification of specific histological patterns. These lesions are categorized into organized (such as amyloidosis, immunotactoid glomerulopathy, fibrillary glomerulonephritis, cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis, and monoclonal crystalline glomerulopathies) and nonorganized deposits (such as monoclonal Ig deposition disease and proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal Ig deposits) based on the characteristics of immunofluorescence findings and the ultrastructural appearance of deposits on electron microscopy. This review aims to provide an update, highlight, and discuss clinicopathological aspects such as definition, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, mechanisms of kidney injury, histological features, and diagnostic procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Miao
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Zainab Obaidi
- Department of Medicine, Section of Nephrology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Marco Bonilla
- Department of Medicine, Section of Nephrology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Saleem M, Khan MM, Iftikhar H. Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis Leading to End-Stage Renal Disease in the Absence of Active or Chronic Hepatitis C Infection: Current Insights. Cureus 2024; 16:e61831. [PMID: 38975465 PMCID: PMC11227315 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare glomerular disease with various etiologies, including idiopathic cases and associations with autoimmune diseases, neoplasms, and viral infections, such as Hepatitis C. We present a case of a patient who developed acute kidney injury (AKI) with atypical clinical features. A subsequent renal biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of FGN, with distinct immunofluorescence staining for DNAJB9. The patient tested positive for Hepatitis C antibodies with an undetectable viral load, indicating a past infection that had self-cleared. This finding prompted further investigation of the association between Hepatitis C and the development of FGN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Saleem
- Nephrology, Ohio Valley Nephrology Associates, Owensboro, USA
- Nephrology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
- Internal Medicine, Waterbury Hospital, Waterbury, USA
| | - Maahin M Khan
- Internal Medicine, Shifa College of Medicine, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Hassaan Iftikhar
- Nephrology, Ohio Valley Nephrology Associates, Owensboro, USA
- Nephrology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
- Internal Medicine, St. Francis Medical Center, Trenton, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dumas De La Roque C, Brocheriou I, Mirouse A, Cacoub P, Le Joncour A. [Fibrillary glomerulonephritis]. Rev Med Interne 2024:S0248-8663(24)00567-8. [PMID: 38755072 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a glomerular disease described since 1977, with a prevalence in renal biopsies of less than 1%. It presents as renal failure, proteinuria, haematuria and hypertension in middle-aged adults. It is defined histologically, using light microscopy, which reveals organised deposits of fibrils measuring around 20nm, which are negative for Congo red staining. Electron microscopy, the first gold standard for diagnosis, has now been superseded by immunohistochemistry using the anti-DNAJB9 antibody. The discovery of this molecule has revolutionised the diagnosis of GNF, thanks to its excellent sensitivity and specificity (98% and 99% respectively). The association of GNF with hepatitis C virus, autoimmune diseases, neoplasia or haemopathy is debated. Renal prognosis is guarded, with 50% of patients progressing to end-stage renal failure within 2 to 4years of diagnosis. In the absence of randomised controlled trials, the recommended treatment is based on nephroprotective measures, corticosteroid therapy and possibly a second-line immunosuppressant such as rituximab. After renal transplantation, recovery or recurrence is possible. The pathophysiology of the disease is still poorly understood, and further studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Dumas De La Roque
- Département de médecine interne et immunologie clinique, hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France; Centre de référence maladies auto-immunes systémiques rares, Paris, France; Sorbonne université, Paris, France
| | - I Brocheriou
- Service d'anatomie pathologique, hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France; Sorbonne université, Paris, France
| | - A Mirouse
- Département de médecine interne et immunologie clinique, hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France; Centre de référence maladies auto-immunes systémiques rares, Paris, France; Sorbonne université, Paris, France
| | - P Cacoub
- Département de médecine interne et immunologie clinique, hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France; Centre de référence maladies auto-immunes systémiques rares, Paris, France; Sorbonne université, Paris, France
| | - A Le Joncour
- Département de médecine interne et immunologie clinique, hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France; Centre de référence maladies auto-immunes systémiques rares, Paris, France; Sorbonne université, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yu SMW, Deoliveira M, Chung M, Lafayette R. Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis Pattern of Injury. ADVANCES IN KIDNEY DISEASE AND HEALTH 2024; 31:216-222. [PMID: 39004461 PMCID: PMC11251708 DOI: 10.1053/j.akdh.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is no longer a disease but a pattern of injury in various diseases. Characterized by electron-dense deposits, mesangial proliferation, and duplication of the glomerular basement membrane, MPGN was previously classified by findings seen by electron microscopy. However, recognizing complement dysfunction in relation to cases with the MPGN pattern of injury substantially changed our view of its pathogenesis. A new classification, including immune complex-mediated and complement-mediated MPGN, has become preferable and has been adopted by international guidelines. Despite these advancements, accurate diagnosis of MPGN remains a clinical challenge, given the pathological and clinical similarities between immune complex-mediated and complement-mediated MPGN. Additional testing, such as molecular and genetic testing, is often necessary. Here, we will summarize our current understanding of the MPGN pattern of injury from a pathology perspective as an introductory article in the following chapters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Miriam Chung
- Division of Nephrology, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Richard Lafayette
- Division of Nephrology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Alventosa Mateu C, Vilar Gimeno A, Pérez Álvarez I, Carbonell Zamorano J, Castelló Miralles I, Latorre Sánchez M, José Urquijo Ponce J, Martínez Leandro E, Terrádez Mas L, Diago M. Extrarenal fibrillary glomerulonephritis as an unknown etiology of advanced liver disease. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2024; 47:381-383. [PMID: 37562769 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Javier Carbonell Zamorano
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, España
| | | | | | | | | | - Liria Terrádez Mas
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, España
| | - Moisés Diago
- Unidad de Hepatología, Servicio de Patología Digestiva
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Padmanabhan P, P J, Mampilly N, Francis S, Sherif A, George S, Mathew T. Monoclonal Gammopathy of Renal Significance (MGRS) - Case Series from a Tertiary Center in Kerala. Indian J Nephrol 2024; 34:59-63. [PMID: 38645913 PMCID: PMC11003595 DOI: 10.4103/ijn.ijn_329_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS) has gained importance because identifying the monoclonal deposit and addressing it, rather than treating renal dysfunction as the primary pathology, has salvaged the patients from progressing into end-stage renal disease. Since it affects elderly population, there could be a propensity to misdiagnose them with cardiorenal syndrome. We present four patients of MGRS diagnosed from our center. They presented with proteinuria or unexplained renal dysfunction. Three of the patients were diagnosed to have amyloidosis, of which two had lambda-type and one had kappa amyloidosis. The fourth patient had fibrillary glomerulonephritis with kappa restriction, further evaluation of which led to diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Absence of "M" band in protein electrophoresis and a normal bone marrow study should not stop physicians from further evaluation. Quantitative serum immunofixation electrophoresis and electron microscopic examination of renal biopsy have become a comprehensive diagnostic tool in such patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priya Padmanabhan
- Department of Nephrology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
- Department of Pathology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
- Department of Clinical Hematology and Hematooncology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
- Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist, American Oncology Institute, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Jayameena P
- Department of Nephrology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Neena Mampilly
- Department of Pathology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Shinto Francis
- Department of Clinical Hematology and Hematooncology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Ajmal Sherif
- Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist, American Oncology Institute, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Sunil George
- Department of Nephrology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| | - Thomas Mathew
- Department of Nephrology, Baby Memorial Hospital, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cohen AWS, Vilayur E. Fibrillary and immunotactoid glomerulopathies in the Hunter region: a retrospective cohort study. Intern Med J 2023; 53:1837-1845. [PMID: 36305476 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrillary (FGN) and immunotactoid (IT) glomerulonephritis are uncommon. AIMS To evaluate the prevalence, clinicopathological correlations and outcomes of FGN and IT in our regional centre in Australia. METHODS We interrogated a renal biopsy database for cases of FGN and IT from 2000 to 2020. Data included demographics, serum creatinine, haematuria status, proteinuria, comorbidities and histopathological findings. RESULTS We had 14 cases of FGN and t of IT. The mean presenting age was 59.8 years, and 42.9% were males. No patients with FGN had dysproteinaemia, whereas both patients with IT had chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. At presentation, 75% of patients with FGN and both patients with IT had haematuria; all had proteinuria. Mean albumin-creatinine ratio at presentation was 254 mg/mmol for FGN and 604 mg/mmol for IT. Mean presenting serum creatinine was 149 μmol/L for FGN and 95 μmol/L for IT. Four patients with FGN (28.6%) received immunomodulatory therapy. The prognosis of FGN was poor, with six patients (46.2%) reaching end-stage kidney disease after a median of 42 months (range 1-96 months). All patients presenting with proteinuria <30 mg/mmol entered complete remission; patients with higher-grade proteinuria exhibited progressive chronic kidney disease. Patients with IT had complete remission with treatment of underlying haematological disease. CONCLUSION FGN is rare, with poor response to immunomodulatory therapy. It carries poor renal prognosis. Less proteinuria at diagnosis may predict a more benign disease course. IT is associated with haematological malignancy and carries better prognosis and response to treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne W S Cohen
- Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eswari Vilayur
- Nephrology and Transplantation Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sabanis N, Liaveri P, Geladari V, Liapis G, Moustakas G. DNAJB9 Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis With Membranous-Like Pattern: A Case-Based Literature Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e47862. [PMID: 37899889 PMCID: PMC10612487 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare immune-mediated glomerular disease traditionally characterized by the presence of amyloid-like, randomly aligned, fibrillary deposits in the capillary wall, measuring approximately 20 nm in diameter and composed of polyclonal IgG. FGN is usually a primary disease with no pathognomonic clinical or laboratory findings. More than that, on light microscopic evaluation, it can receive various histological patterns, rendering its diagnosis indistinguishable. However, the identification by immunohistochemistry of a novel biomarker, DNA-J heat-shock protein family member B9 (DNAJB9), has created a new era in FGN diagnosis even in the absence of electron microscopy. Typically, most patients manifest various degrees of renal insufficiency, hypertension, microscopic hematuria, proteinuria, and occasionally frank nephrotic syndrome. The prognosis is usually severe and progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is the rule, given that no specific treatment is available until now, despite the fact that in small studies rituximab-based therapy seems to alleviate the severity and improve the disease progression. Herein, we report the case of a 63-year-old Caucasian man presenting with uncontrolled hypertension, headache, shortness of breath, and lower limb edema. Diagnostic evaluation revealed mild deterioration of kidney function, nephrotic range proteinuria, and faint IgGκ monoclonal bands in serum and urine immunofixation. After negative meticulous investigation for secondary nephrotic syndrome causes, the patient underwent a kidney biopsy. Biopsy sample showed two glomeruli with mesangial expansion and thickened glomerular basement membrane (GBM) on light microscopy, a pattern masquerading as membranous nephropathy stage III-IV, while IgG and C3 were 1-2+ on GBM and mesangium in immunofluorescence. Thickened GBM with fibrils on electron microscopy were found, while DNAJB9 in immunohistochemistry was positive, confirming FGN. Once diagnosis of FGN was made, a combination of steroids with rituximab was initiated while the patient was receiving the standard anti-hypertensive therapy, simultaneously with a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor. The 12-month follow-up showed approximately 85% decrease in proteinuria alongside stabilization of kidney function and blood pressure normalization. Hence, in this article, we aim to highlight that DNAJB9-associated FGN may mimic membranous glomerulopathy stage III-IV on light microscopy, especially when a small kidney sample with extensive involvement by fibrils of GBM is examined. Moreover, we underscore the fact that ultramicroscopic examination is of crucial importance in the differential diagnosis of glomerular deposition diseases and that DNAJB9 identification on immunohistochemistry consists of a revolutionary and robust biomarker in FGN diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Sabanis
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Trikala, Trikala, GRC
| | - Paraskevi Liaveri
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Athens "Georgios Gennimatas", Athens, GRC
| | - Virginia Geladari
- Department of Internal Medicine, General Hospital of Trikala, Trikala, GRC
| | - George Liapis
- Department of Pathology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, GRC
| | - George Moustakas
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Athens "Georgios Gennimatas", Athens, GRC
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ammayappan SK, Rajagopalan A, Rajendran M, Arunachalam J, Prasath A, Durai R, Kurien AA. A Case of Posttransplant Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis. Indian J Nephrol 2023; 33:206-208. [PMID: 37448907 PMCID: PMC10337225 DOI: 10.4103/ijn.ijn_187_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare form of glomerulonephritis, usually occurring in concurrence with other conditions such as hepatitis C, dysproteinemia, autoimmune conditions, diabetes mellitus, and malignancy. The diagnosis is made by the presence of randomly oriented fibrillar deposits with a mean diameter of 20 nm, which stain positive for IgG and C3 and are negative for congo red and thioflavin T stains. Staining for DNAJB9 (DnaJ homolog subfamily B member 9) is a recently discovered mode of diagnosis of FGN without electron microscopy. The prognosis is poor and optimal treatment is yet not clearly defined, though rituximab may be useful in FGN patients with relatively preserved renal functions. In this case report, we discuss a case of post-renal transplant patient with de novo occurrence of fibrillary glomerulonephritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Kumar Ammayappan
- Department of Nephrology, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arul Rajagopalan
- Department of Nephrology, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Manorajan Rajendran
- Department of Nephrology, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jegan Arunachalam
- Department of Nephrology, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arun Prasath
- Department of Nephrology, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rakesh Durai
- Department of Nephrology, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anila A. Kurien
- Renopath, Center for Renal and Urological Pathology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tamer MN, Brink DS, Bastani B, Miyata KN. Fibrillary glomerulonephritis diagnosed by an immunostaining for DNA-J heat-shock protein family member B9. Nephrology (Carlton) 2023; 28:255-256. [PMID: 36760027 DOI: 10.1111/nep.14148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet N Tamer
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - David S Brink
- Department of Pathology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Bahar Bastani
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kana N Miyata
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
[Electron microscopy in nephropathology]. PATHOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 44:84-94. [PMID: 36480038 DOI: 10.1007/s00292-022-01164-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Non-neoplastic kidney diseases represent a broad spectrum of diseases. Although their pathogenesis differs, the histological findings may be similar in terms of conventional morphology. A precise classification of these diseases is a prerequisite for correct therapy and prognostic assessment. In the diagnostic process, the magnification achieved by electron microscopy is essential and cannot be replaced by any other technique. The most frequent diagnostic questions addressed by ultrastructural studies represent (1) alterations of podocytes (e.g., minimal-change disease), (2) changes of the thickness and structure of the glomerular basement membrane (e.g., diabetic glomerulosclerosis or Alport disease), (3) the presence, characteristics and exact localisation of immune complexes (e.g., membranous glomerulonephritis or lupus nephritis), (4) alterations of endothelial cells and capillaries (e.g., thrombotic microangiopathy) and (5) diseases of the tubular cells (e.g., light-chain nephropathy or toxic effects). Therefore, ultrastructural investigations are-together with conventional microscopy and immunohistochemistry (or immunofluorescence)-an integral part of the so-called triple-diagnostics in routine nephropathology.
Collapse
|
13
|
Whelband MC, Willingham T, Thirunavukkarasu S, Patrick J. Fibrillar glomerulonephritis in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus with no evidence of lupus nephritis. BMJ Case Rep 2023; 16:e253388. [PMID: 36810336 PMCID: PMC9944728 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-253388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrillar glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare proliferative form of glomerular disease characterised by randomly oriented fibrillar deposits with a mean diameter of 20 nm. It has a rare association with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We report the case of a female in her mid-50's with a 20 year history of SLE, who developed proteinuria due to FGN and had no histological evidence of lupus nephritis. She was maintained on azathioprine and prednisolone. A renal biopsy revealed randomly arranged fibrillar deposits that positively stained for DNAJB9, consistent with a diagnosis of FGN. Azathioprine was switched to mycophenolate mofetil, and the patient showed significant improvement in proteinuria. This case-based review describes the diagnosis, management and clinical outcome of FGN in association with SLE in the absence of lupus nephritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Carl Whelband
- Acute Medicine, James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, UK
| | - Tom Willingham
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Sathiamalar Thirunavukkarasu
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Jean Patrick
- Nephrology, James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jagadish A, Vedantam V, Vedantam N, Magacha HM. Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis in a Patient With Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cureus 2023; 15:e35068. [PMID: 36942185 PMCID: PMC10024594 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis is a rare condition characterized by glomerular accumulation of non-branching fibrils, leading to hematuria, proteinuria, and hypertension. It is often associated with malignancy but has no known cause. A 66-year-old Caucasian female with a history of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma presented with one month of painless hematuria in the setting of new-onset progressive renal dysfunction and nephrotic range proteinuria. Comprehensive evaluation, including renal biopsy with staining for DnaJ heat shock protein family member B9 (DNAJB9), provided a definitive diagnosis of fibrillary glomerulonephritis. The patient initially received rituximab and prednisone therapy. Unfortunately, her renal function continued to decline over the next month, requiring re-hospitalization with initiation of hemodialysis. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing an association between vulvar squamous cell carcinoma and fibrillary glomerulonephritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin Jagadish
- Internal Medicine, East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, USA
| | - Venkata Vedantam
- Internal Medicine, East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, USA
| | - Neethu Vedantam
- Infectious Diseases, East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, USA
| | - Hezborn M Magacha
- General Practice, East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, Johnson City, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
El Chediak A, Tawil A, Farroukh L, Farhat H, Kassouf HK. Role of Ultrastructural Study in the Diagnosis of Medical Renal Diseases: A Tertiary Medical Center Experience and Review of the Literature. SAUDI JOURNAL OF KIDNEY DISEASES AND TRANSPLANTATION 2022; 33:603-607. [PMID: 37955452 DOI: 10.4103/1319-2442.389420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The 20th century unfolded many mysteries regarding renal pathology with the advent of ancillary techniques such as immunofluorescence (IF) and electron microscopy (EM) studies. EM plays a major role in confirming the routine and IF findings or may uncover new and unsuspected features. The aim of the study is to elucidate the role of ultrastructural findings in patients with medical kidney diseases on whom kidney biopsy was performed at the American University of Beirut Medical Center, between November 2018 and June 2019. A total of 188 renal biopsies were examined during the study period. EM confirmed the light microscopy diagnosis in 54% of the cases while completely changed the diagnosis in 23% of the cases. In 23% of the sample, EM provided additional features and a secondary diagnosis. Our study emphasizes the important diagnostic role of EM and its significance, particularly in minimal change disease, basement membrane abnormalities, and glomerulopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alissar El Chediak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ayman Tawil
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lea Farroukh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hadi Farhat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hala Kfoury Kassouf
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Gambella A, Pitino C, Barreca A, Nocifora A, Giarin MM, Bertero L, Biancone L, Roccatello D, Papotti M, Cassoni P. DNAJB9 Is a Reliable Immunohistochemical Marker of Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis: Evaluation of Diagnostic Efficacy in a Large Series of Kidney Biopsies. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092102. [PMID: 36140202 PMCID: PMC9495529 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare glomerular disease characterized by a challenging diagnostic workup requiring ultrastructural identification of 20 nm-thick randomly oriented fibrillar deposits. However, the recent introduction of DNAJB9 as a putative diagnostic marker of FGN could thoroughly improve this diagnostic scenario. This study aims to assess the DNAJB9 immunohistochemical expression in a large series of FGN cases and to eventually confirm its role as a diagnostic marker of FGN. We evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of DNAJB9 (Rabbit Polyclonal, ThermoFisher) in a series of 77 FGN and 128 non-FGN cases diagnosed between January 1992 and June 2022 at the Pathology Unit of the AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza Hospital. DNAJB9 was expressed in 73 of the 74 evaluable FGN cases, mostly showing a strong glomerular positivity (68 cases). Additionally, DNAJB9 resulted positive in all challenging scenarios [early-stage (6), congophilic (4), combined (4), and uncertain (4) cases of FGN)]. DNAJB9 was negative in all non-FGN cases, eventually resulting in a specificity of 100% and sensitivity of 99%. In conclusion, we confirmed the role of DNAJB9 as a diagnostic marker of FGN. Its adoption in the clinical routine will allow a faster, more feasible, and more accurate FGN diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Gambella
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Pitino
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Antonella Barreca
- Pathology Unit, “Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino” University Hospital, Via Santena 7, 10126 Turin, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Alberto Nocifora
- Pathology Unit, “Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino” University Hospital, Via Santena 7, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Manuela Maria Giarin
- Pathology Unit, “Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino” University Hospital, Via Santena 7, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Bertero
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Luigi Biancone
- Division of Nephrology Dialysis and Transplantation, “Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino” University Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Dario Roccatello
- CMID, Coordinating Center of the Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, Nephrology and Dialysis Unit (ERK-Net Member), San Giovanni Bosco Hub Hospital, University of Turin, 10144 Turin, Italy
| | - Mauro Papotti
- Pathology Unit, Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Cassoni
- Pathology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Venkataraj M, Morisetti PP. A Case of Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis. Cureus 2022; 14:e28250. [PMID: 36158379 PMCID: PMC9490443 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
|
18
|
Andeen NK, Kung VL, Robertson J, Gurley SB, Avasare RS, Sitaraman S. Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis, DNAJB9, and the Unfolded Protein Response. GLOMERULAR DISEASES 2022; 2:164-175. [PMID: 36817290 PMCID: PMC9936766 DOI: 10.1159/000525542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is found in approximately 1% of native kidney biopsies and was traditionally defined by glomerular deposition of fibrils larger than amyloid (12-24 nm diameter) composed of polyclonal IgG. Recent identification of DNAJB9 as a sensitive and specific marker of FGN has revolutionized FGN diagnosis and opened new avenues to studying FGN pathogenesis. In this review, we synthesize recent literature to provide an updated appraisal of the clinical and pathologic features of FGN, discuss diagnostic challenges and pitfalls, and propose molecular models of disease in light of DNAJB9. Summary DNAJB9 tissue assays, paraffin immunofluorescence studies, and IgG subclass testing demonstrate that FGN is distinct from other glomerular diseases with organized deposits and highlight FGN morphologic variants. Additionally, these newer techniques show that FGN is only rarely monoclonal, and patients with monoclonal FGN usually do not have a monoclonal gammopathy. DNAJB9 mutation does not appear to affect the genetic architecture of FGN; however, the accumulation of DNAJB9 in FGN deposits suggests that disease is driven, at least in part, by proteins involved in the unfolded protein response. Treatments for FGN remain empiric, with some encouraging data suggesting that rituximab-based therapy is effective and that transplantation is a good option for patients progressing to ESKD. Key Messages DNAJB9 aids in distinguishing FGN from other glomerular diseases with organized deposits. Further investigations into the role of DNAJB9 in FGN pathogenesis are necessary to better understand disease initiation and progression and to ultimately develop targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole K. Andeen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA,*Nicole K. Andeen,
| | - Vanderlene L. Kung
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Josh Robertson
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Susan B. Gurley
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Rupali S. Avasare
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Canetta P. Disentangling a Case of Glomerulonephritis with Fibrils. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2022; 17:1070-1072. [PMID: 35654563 PMCID: PMC9269629 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.00630122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Canetta
- P Canetta, Associate Professor of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Da Y, Goh GH, Lau T, Chng WJ, Soekojo CY. Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis and Monoclonal Gammopathy: Potential Diagnostic Challenges. Front Oncol 2022; 12:880923. [PMID: 35692803 PMCID: PMC9174543 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.880923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare glomerular disease featured by the randomly arranged 12- to 24-nm fibrils under electron microscopy (EM). Up to 10% of FGN patients have monoclonal gammopathy. However, distinguishing between FGN as monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS) and FGN from other causes with incidental monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) can be challenging, as the current way of demonstrating monoclonality is flawed due to (1) the suboptimal sensitivity of kappa staining by immunofluorescence in frozen tissue (IF-F) as compared to pronase-digested paraffin sections (IF-P), causing incorrect labeling of light chain restriction; (2) the unavailability of immunoglobulin G (IgG) subtyping in some centers; and (3) the unavailability of tests demonstrating the monoclonality of highly variable VH or VL domains in immunoglobulin structures in clinical use. The discovery of DnaJ homolog subfamily B member 9 (DNAJB9) allows diagnosis for FGN with less reliance on EM, and the summary of recent studies revealed that genuine MGRS is extremely rare among FGN. Further research integrating IF-P, IgG subtyping, VH or VL domain monoclonality confirmation, and DNAJB9 as diagnostic modalities, with corresponding clinical data including treatment response and prognosis, is required for a better understanding of this subject.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Da
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Giap Hean Goh
- Department of Pathology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Titus Lau
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wee Joo Chng
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cinnie Yentia Soekojo
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- *Correspondence: Cinnie Yentia Soekojo,
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Effect of Rituximab on 24-Hour Urine Protein and Albumin or Renal Function in Patients with Glomerulonephritis. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2022; 2022:6412740. [PMID: 35463670 PMCID: PMC9020919 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6412740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the urine protein/creatinine ratio (PCR) and 24 h urine total protein quantity (24hUTP) in morning and random urine and its prediction equation. Rituximab (RTX), a monoclonal antibody that acts on the B cell epitope CD20, has been used in the renal field since 2005 and has become a hot topic in the clinical treatment of many glomerulonephritis diseases. Apart from focusing on the safety and efficacy of RTX in clinical treatment, some scholars are still working on the mechanism of its action in the treatment of renal diseases, trying to find its specific targets in renal tissues. Results. There was no significant difference between morning urine PCR, random urine PCR, and 24hUTP (P=0.81); there was a significant positive correlation between morning urine PCR and 24hUTP (r = 0.90, P < 0.01) and between random urine PCR and 24hUTP (r = 0.95, P < 0.01), and the correlation between random urine PCR and 24hUTP was higher than that between morning urine PCR and 24hUTP. The results of the ROC curve analysis showed that the correlation between morning urine PCR, random urine PCR, and 24hUTP was higher than that between morning urine PCR and 24hUTP in different groups. The optimal threshold values for random urine PCR to predict 2.4hUTP were 0.56 g/g (sensitivity 93.5%; specificity 75.4%), 1.11 g/g (sensitivity 98.3%; specificity 92.4%), and 3.43 g/g (sensitivity 87.9%; specificity 89.9%), respectively. The equations for predicting 24hUTP by morning urine PCR and random urine PCR were as follows: (1) 24hUTP(g) = 0.793 + 0.793 × morning urine PCR + 0.124 × total cholesterol − 0.177 × Alb (coefficient of determination R2 = 0.87); (2) 24hUTP(g) = 0.369 + 0.856 × random urine PCR + 0.132 × total cholesterol − 0.092 × Alb (coefficient of determination R2 = 0.92); the prediction equation of random urine was more accurate than that of morning urine. The correlation was not affected by gender, age, 24 h urine volume, etiology, eGFR, Alb, or total cholesterol level, and the correlation between random urine PCR and 24hUTP was higher than that of morning urine PCR. CR prediction equation was used instead of the 24hUTP test.
Collapse
|
22
|
Fourdinier O, Ulrich M, Karras A, Olagne J, Buob D, Audard V, Vigneau C, Gibier JB, Guerrot D, Massy Z, Vuiblet V, Rabot N, Goujon JM, Cordonnier C, Choukroun G, Titeca-Beauport D. Glomerulonephritis with non-Randall-type, non-cryoglobulinemic monoclonal immunoglobulin G deposits [PGNMID and ITG]. Clin Kidney J 2022; 15:1727-1736. [PMID: 36003672 PMCID: PMC9394706 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfac085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Glomerulonephritis (GN) with non-Randall-type, non-cryoglobulinemic monoclonal immunoglobulin G deposits encompasses rare diseases [proliferative GN with non-organized deposits (PGNMID) and immunotactoid GN] that cannot be distinguished without ultrastructural analysis by electron microscopy (EM).
Methods
Here, we report and analyze the prognosis of 41 EM-proven (PGNMID for 39/41) and 22 non-EM-proven/DNAJB9-negative cases, diagnosed between 2001 and 2019 in 12 French nephrology centers.
Results
Median serum creatinine (SCr) at presentation was 150 [92-256] μmol/L. The predominant histological pattern was membranoproliferative GN (79%), with IgG3 (74%) kappa (78%) deposits the most frequently observed. Disease presentation and patient management were similar between EM-proven and non-EM-proven cases. A serum monoclonal spike was detected for 21 patients and 10 had an underlying hematological malignancy. First-line therapy was mixed between clone-targeted therapy (n = 33), corticosteroids (n = 9), and RAAS-inhibitors (n = 19). After six months, nine patients achieved complete and 23 partial renal recovery. In univariate analysis, renal recovery was associated with baseline SCr (OR 0.70, p = 0.07). After a median follow-up of 52 [35–74] months, 38% of patients had progressed to end-stage kidney disease independently associated with baseline SCr (HR 1.41, p = 0.003) and glomerular crescentic proliferation (HR 4.38, p = 0.004).
Conclusions
Our results confirm that non-cryoglobulinemic and non-Randall GN with monoclonal IgG deposits are rarely associated with hematological malignancy. The prognosis is uncertain but may be improved by early introduction of a specific therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ophélie Fourdinier
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, University Hospital, and MP3CV Research Laboratory, Jules Verne Picardie University, Amiens, France
| | - Marc Ulrich
- Department of Nephrology, Hôpital Jean Bernard, Valenciennes, France
| | - Alexandre Karras
- Department of Nephrology, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Olagne
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, Department of Pathology, University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
| | - David Buob
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Tenon, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Vincent Audard
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, Henri Mondor University Hospital, APHP, and Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U 955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Créteil, France
| | - Cécile Vigneau
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | | | | | - Ziad Massy
- Department of Nephrology, Ambroise Paré Hospital, APHP, Boulogne Billancourt, Paris, and Inserm Unit 1018, Team 5, CESP, Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines University, Paris Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Vincent Vuiblet
- Department of Nephrology and Transplantation, University Hospital, Reims, France
| | - Nolwenn Rabot
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital, Tours, France
| | - Jean-Michel Goujon
- Department of Nephrology, and Department of Pathology and Ultrastructural Pathology, University Hospital, Poitiers, France
| | | | - Gabriel Choukroun
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, University Hospital, and MP3CV Research Laboratory, Jules Verne Picardie University, Amiens, France
| | - Dimitri Titeca-Beauport
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, University Hospital, and MP3CV Research Laboratory, Jules Verne Picardie University, Amiens, France
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sy-Go JPT, Herrmann SM, Seshan SV. Monoclonal Gammopathy-Related Kidney Diseases. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2022; 29:86-102.e1. [PMID: 35817530 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Monoclonal gammopathies occur secondary to a broad range of clonal B lymphocyte or plasma cell disorders, producing either whole or truncated monoclonal immunoglobulins. The kidneys are often affected by these monoclonal proteins, and, although not mutually exclusive, can involve the glomeruli, tubules, interstitium, and vasculature. The nephrotoxic potential of these monoclonal proteins is dependent on a variety of physicochemical characteristics that are responsible for the diverse clinicopathologic manifestations, including glomerular diseases with organized deposits, glomerular diseases with granular deposits, and other lesions, such as C3 glomerulopathy and thrombotic microangiopathy with unique pathophysiologic features. The diseases that involve primarily the tubulointerstitial and vascular compartments are light chain cast nephropathy, light chain proximal tubulopathy, crystal-storing histiocytosis, and crystalglobulin-induced nephropathy with distinct acute and chronic clinicopathologic features. The diagnosis of a monoclonal gammopathy-related kidney disease is established by identification of an underlying active or more commonly, low-grade hematologic malignancy, serologic evidence of a monoclonal gammopathy when detectable, and most importantly, monoclonal protein-induced pathologic lesions seen in a kidney biopsy, confirming the association with the monoclonal protein. Establishing a diagnosis may be challenging at times, particularly in the absence of an overt hematologic malignancy, with or without monoclonal gammopathy, such as proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immunoglobulin deposits. Overall, the treatment is directed against the underlying hematologic disorder and the potential source of the monoclonal protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra M Herrmann
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| | - Surya V Seshan
- Department of Anatomic Pathology and Clinical Pathology, Weil Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hattori K, Shimizu R, Tanaka S, Terashima T, Hiramatsu M, Shimomura T, Ito T, Morinaga T, Terasaki M, Shimizu A, Morozumi K, Tamai H. A case of juvenile-onset fibrillary glomerulonephritis diagnosed by mass spectrometry and immunohistochemistry of DNAJB9. CEN Case Rep 2022; 11:412-416. [PMID: 35199316 DOI: 10.1007/s13730-022-00693-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare glomerular disease. FGN is characterized by the deposition of randomly arranged, nonbranching microfibrils in the mesangium and glomerular basement membrane. The discovery of DNAJ homolog subfamily B member 9 (DNAJB9) in 2017 was a breakthrough, and DNAJB9 has been proven to be extremely useful for the definitive diagnosis of FGN. While FGN often occurs in middle-aged individuals, this case was diagnosed at a relatively young age of 17. We performed renal biopsy, and light microscopic study revealed mesangial proliferation with expansion and subepithelial deposits. Electron microscopic study showed glomerular deposition of randomly oriented nonbranching fibrils with a mean of 20 nm. However, direct first scarlet stain for amyloidosis was weakly positive. Therefore, we confirmed the diagnosis of FGN and eliminated the presence of amyloidosis with mass spectrometry. This is the first case in Japan in which the complication of amyloidosis was ruled out with mass spectrometry and FGN was diagnosed using immunostaining and mass spectrometry of DNAJB9. We began treatment with cyclosporine A. One and a half years after the start of the treatment, kidney function continues to be normal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keita Hattori
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan.
| | - Ryo Shimizu
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| | - Shoichiro Tanaka
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| | - Takashi Terashima
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| | - Miya Hiramatsu
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| | - Taishi Shimomura
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ito
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| | - Takatoshi Morinaga
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| | - Mika Terasaki
- Department of Analytic Human Pathology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8603, Japan
| | - Akira Shimizu
- Department of Analytic Human Pathology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8603, Japan
| | - Kunio Morozumi
- Department of Nephrology, Masuko Memorial Hospital, 35-28 Takegashicho, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 453-0016, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Tamai
- Department of Nephrology, Anjo Kosei Hospital, 28, higashihirokute, anjocho, Anjo, Aichi, 446-8602, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Santos JE, Vicente R, Malvar B, Santos I, Coimbra M, Amoedo M, Pires C. Lupus-like nephritis with positive anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies and negative antinuclear antibodies. J Bras Nefrol 2022; 44:121-125. [PMID: 33107901 PMCID: PMC8943873 DOI: 10.1590/2175-8239-jbn-2020-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) are associated with small vessel vasculitis but their prevalence is not rare in other immune diseases. In lupus nephritis (LN), their pathological role and clinical relevance have been the target of controversial views. We present a case of acute kidney injury and nephrotic syndrome in a young woman with diffuse global proliferative and membranous nephritis on her kidney biopsy, showing a full-house immunofluorescence pattern, very allusive of class IV + V LN, but lacking associated clinical criteria and laboratory findings to support the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Furthermore, the patient presented with high titers of ANCA, steadily decreasing alongside the renal function and proteinuria improvements, with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and steroid treatment. The authors believe this is a case of lupus-like nephritis, in which ANCAs are immunological markers, although they are not directly involved in the pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rita Vicente
- Hospital Espírito Santo de Évora, Department of Nephrology, Évora, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Malvar
- Hospital Espírito Santo de Évora, Department of Nephrology, Évora, Portugal
| | - Iolanda Santos
- Hospital Espírito Santo de Évora, Department of Nephrology, Évora, Portugal
| | - Miguel Coimbra
- Hospital Espírito Santo de Évora, Department of Nephrology, Évora, Portugal
| | - Manuel Amoedo
- Hospital Espírito Santo de Évora, Department of Nephrology, Évora, Portugal
| | - Carlos Pires
- Hospital Espírito Santo de Évora, Department of Nephrology, Évora, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Mubarak M. Deciphering the autoimmune pathogenesis in fibrillary glomerulonephritis: The story is not yet complete. Indian J Nephrol 2022; 32:195-196. [PMID: 35814329 PMCID: PMC9267093 DOI: 10.4103/ijn.ijn_293_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
27
|
Marinaki S, Tsiakas S, Liapis G, Skalioti C, Kapsia E, Lionaki S, Boletis J. Clinicopathologic features and treatment outcomes of patients with fibrillary glomerulonephritis: A case series. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e26022. [PMID: 34011106 PMCID: PMC8137004 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000026022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a diverse glomerular disease with poor renal prognosis. The optimal therapeutic approach remains undetermined, as treatment outcomes vary across different studies.We retrospectively reviewed the medical data of 10 patients diagnosed with biopsy-proven FGN at our center between 2004 and 2019. Clinical and histological features, as well as therapeutic regimens and treatment response, are reported.The patients were predominantly men (2.5/1 men-female ratio) with a mean age at diagnosis of 46.5 years (IQR: 41.5-59.5). The median proteinuria and creatinine levels at presentation were 2.55 g/day (IQR: 0.4-8.9) and 1.35 mg/dl (IQR: 0.94-1.88), respectively. Four out of 10 patients presented with nephrotic syndrome, 5 patients with nephritic syndrome and 1 with isolated microscopic hematuria. Light microscopy showed mesangial proliferative (n = 7), membranoproliferative-like (n = 2), and diffuse sclerosing patterns (n = 1). Rituximab was used in 7/10 patients, either as monotherapy (n = 3) or combined with cyclophosphamide and corticosteroids (n = 4). Patients who were treated with immunosuppression had higher median levels of creatinine (1.40 mg/dl) and proteinuria (3.5 g/d) compared to those who received supportive treatment alone (0.94 mg/dl and 0.6 g/d, respectively). After a median follow-up of 30 months (IQR:18-66.5), 4 out of 7 patients (57%) treated with immunosuppression achieved a clinical response, 1 had persistent renal dysfunction and 2 patients progressed to end-stage renal disease.The present case series extends the existing literature on the clinical features and outcomes of FGN, as well as the use of rituximab-based regimens for the treatment of the disease. Further research is needed to establish the proper management of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Smaragdi Marinaki
- Clinic of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Laiko Hospital’
| | - Stathis Tsiakas
- Clinic of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Laiko Hospital’
| | - George Liapis
- Department of Pathology, Laiko Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysanthi Skalioti
- Clinic of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Laiko Hospital’
| | - Eleni Kapsia
- Clinic of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Laiko Hospital’
| | - Sophia Lionaki
- Clinic of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Laiko Hospital’
| | - John Boletis
- Clinic of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Laiko Hospital’
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Andeen NK, Avasare RS. DNA J homolog subfamily B member 9 and other advances in fibrillary glomerulonephritis. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2021; 30:294-302. [PMID: 33767057 DOI: 10.1097/mnh.0000000000000706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) involves ∼1% of native kidney biopsies and is characterized by glomerular deposition of fibrils larger than amyloid (12-24 nm diameter) composed of polyclonal immunoglobulin G (IgG). The recent discovery of DNA J homolog subfamily B member 9 (DNAJB9) in FGN glomerular deposits has contributed a specific and sensitive biomarker, informing morphologic classification and pathogenesis. This review will consider contemporary FGN incidence and genetics, pathogenesis, (lack of) paraprotein association, variants, treatment, and transplantation. RECENT FINDINGS DNAJB9 tissue assays have enabled the identification of morphologic variants and improved classification of fibrillary-like glomerular diseases. Together with paraffin immunofluorescence and IgG subclass studies, these have established that FGN is only rarely monoclonal and these patients usually do not have an monoclonal gammopathy. The discovery of DNAJB9 opens new avenues of investigation into FGN pathogenesis, especially those of the unfolded protein response. Treatment for FGN remains empiric, with some encouraging data on rituximab-based therapy. Transplantation is a good option for patients progressing to end-stage kidney disease. SUMMARY Advances building on the discovery of DNAJB9 in FGN should lead to long-term evolution in targeted treatment and outcome of this glomerular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rupali S Avasare
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Portland, Oregon, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Uchida T, Komatsu S, Sakai T, Kojima A, Iwama S, Sugisaki K, Oda T. Complete remission of DnaJ homolog subfamily B member 9-positive fibrillary glomerulonephritis following steroid monotherapy in an elderly Japanese woman. CEN Case Rep 2021; 10:442-447. [PMID: 33656648 DOI: 10.1007/s13730-021-00585-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A 74-year-old Japanese woman was referred to our department because of anasarca and massive proteinuria. She was clinically diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, and renal biopsy showed membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis accompanied by marked glomerular infiltration with macrophages and full-house immunofluorescence glomerular deposition. Furthermore, randomly arranged nonbranching fibrils, approximately 12 nm in diameter, were found by electron microscopy, and immunostaining for DnaJ homolog subfamily B member 9 (DNAJB9), a recently identified diagnostic biomarker of fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN), showed positive result, thereby confirming the diagnosis of FGN. Steroid treatment was initiated, and she obtained complete remission of nephrotic syndrome and has maintained it. FGN is an uncommon form of glomerular disease, and reported cases of DNAJB9-positive FGN among Asians, particularly among Japanese population, are rare. There have been no established therapeutic regimens and its renal prognosis is generally unfavorable. The present case suggests that some patients with FGN can achieve favorable clinical outcomes through steroid monotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Uchida
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji, Tokyo, 193-0998, Japan
| | - Shuuhei Komatsu
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji, Tokyo, 193-0998, Japan
| | - Takashi Sakai
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji, Tokyo, 193-0998, Japan
| | - Aki Kojima
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji, Tokyo, 193-0998, Japan
| | - Sachiko Iwama
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji, Tokyo, 193-0998, Japan
| | - Kentaro Sugisaki
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji, Tokyo, 193-0998, Japan
| | - Takashi Oda
- Department of Nephrology and Blood Purification, Kidney Disease Center, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji, Tokyo, 193-0998, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Baker LW, Khan M, Cortese C, Aslam N. Fibrillary glomerulonephritis or complement 3 glomerulopathy: a rare case of diffuse necrotising crescentic glomerulonephritis with C3-dominant glomerular deposition and positive DNAJB9. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:e239868. [PMID: 33602773 PMCID: PMC7896581 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-239868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) and complement 3 glomerulopathy (C3G) are rare forms of glomerulonephritis with distinct aetiologies. Both FGN and C3G can present with nephritic syndrome. FGN is associated with autoimmune disease, dysproteinaemia, malignancy and hepatitis C infection. C3G is caused by the unregulated activation of the alternative complement pathway. We present a rare case of diffuse necrotising crescentic glomerulonephritis with dominant C3 glomerular staining on immunofluorescence-consistent with C3G-but electron microscopy (EM) findings of randomly oriented fibrils with a mean diameter of 14 nm and positive immunohistochemistry for DNAJB9-suggestive of FGN. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of FGN to show dominant C3 glomerular deposits. This case report reaffirms the utility of EM in the evaluation of nephritic syndrome and highlights the value of DNAJB9-a novel biomarker with a sensitivity and specificity near 100% for FGN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lyle Wesley Baker
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic Hospital Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Mahnoor Khan
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic Hospital Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Cherise Cortese
- Department of Pathology, Mayo Clinic Hospital Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Nabeel Aslam
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic Hospital Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Cavanaugh C, Okusa MD. The Evolving Role of Novel Biomarkers in Glomerular Disease: A Review. Am J Kidney Dis 2021; 77:122-131. [DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2020.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
32
|
Jeyabalan A, Batal I, Piras D, Morris HK, Appel GB. Familial Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis in Living Related Kidney Transplantation. Kidney Int Rep 2020; 6:239-242. [PMID: 33426405 PMCID: PMC7783556 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2020.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anushya Jeyabalan
- Department of Medicine, Nephrology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ibrahim Batal
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Doloretta Piras
- Department of Medicine, Nephrology, Azienda Ospedaliera "G. Brotzu", Cagliari, Italy
| | - Heather K Morris
- Department of Medicine, Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gerald B Appel
- Department of Medicine, Nephrology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Singh PP, Krishna A, Sharma A, Kumar O. Fibrillary glomerulonephritis presenting as crescentic glomerulonephritis in a young female: a case study. Ultrastruct Pathol 2020; 44:501-504. [PMID: 32657244 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2020.1792598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare disorder accounting for up to 1% of all glomerulonephritis (GN). FGN usually manifests as nephrotic or subnephrotic proteinuria, hematuria, and hypertension in patients after the sixth decade. The overall prognosis of FGN is very poor. Crescentic presentation of FGN is uncommon which may be diagnosed as rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) unless electron microscopy and/or special stains are done. We report a case of a young female who presented as RPGN but diagnosis was revised to crescentic FGN after electron microscopy and immunohistochemical staining with DNAJB9 stain. Patient remained dialysis-dependent after treatment with steroid and cyclophosphamide for 2 months and progressed to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Crescentic FGN usually does not respond to treatment and invariably progresses to ESRD over few months. This case emphasizes the defining role of electron microscopy and special stains in diagnosing uncommon glomerular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prit Pal Singh
- Department of Nephrology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences , Sheikhpura, Patna, India
| | - Amresh Krishna
- Department of Nephrology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences , Sheikhpura, Patna, India
| | - Alok Sharma
- Department of Renal Pathology & Electron Microscopy, National Reference Lab, Dr Lal Pathlab , New Delhi, India
| | - Om Kumar
- Department of Nephrology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences , Sheikhpura, Patna, India
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Liang S, Chen D, Liang D, Xu F, Zhang M, Yang F, Zhu X, Li P, Zeng C. Clinicopathological characteristics and outcome of patients with fibrillary glomerulonephritis: DNAJB9 is a valuable histologic marker. J Nephrol 2020; 34:883-892. [PMID: 32557205 DOI: 10.1007/s40620-020-00783-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare glomerular disease. DNAJB9 as a new reliable diagnostic marker for the diagnosis of FGN was discovered recently. To investigate the clinicopathological features and prognosis of DNAJB9-positive FGN, we report on a case series in a single center in China. METHODS DNAJB9 immunohistochemistry was performed on renal biopsy samples from patients with FGN (n = 7), and non-FGN glomerular diseases (n = 27) were used as controls. The patients with DNAJB9-positive FGN were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS Strong DNAJB9 staining of glomerular extracellular deposits was observed in 6 cases of originally diagnosed FGN. One man and 5 women with a median age of 26 years were studied. The patients presented with renal insufficiency in 1 case, proteinuria in 6 cases, nephrotic syndrome in 3 cases, and microscopic hematuria in 2 cases. The histologic pattern was mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis in 1 case and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis in 5 cases. The glomerular deposits stained for polytypic IgG and both kappa and lambda in 3 cases, polytypic IgG without kappa or lambda in 1, monotypic IgG1-kappa in 1 and IgG1-lambda in 1. Extraglomerular deposits were identified in all cases. Congo red positivity was observed in 3 cases. All of the patients received renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade and 5 of them received glucocorticoid and/or immunosuppression. At a median time of 36.2 months after biopsy, 2 cases had partial remission, 3 cases displayed no remission, and 1 case progressed to end-stage renal disease. CONCLUSIONS Extraglomerular deposits in the FGN were common. Monotypic FGN was found in young patients with a favorable renal outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoshan Liang
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Dacheng Chen
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Dandan Liang
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Feng Xu
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Mingchao Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Fan Yang
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhu
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Ping Li
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Caihong Zeng
- National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Diseases, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University School of Medicine, East 305 Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Adachi M, Kitamura M, Muta K, Maekawa A, Uramatsu T, Tadokoro M, Funakoshi S, Hisano S, Kuwahara N, Shimizu A, Mukae H, Nishino T. IgM monoclonal gammopathy with heavy-and-light-chain amyloidosis resembling fibrillary glomerulonephritis determined by tandem mass spectrometry: a case report. BMC Nephrol 2020; 21:195. [PMID: 32448180 PMCID: PMC7245905 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-020-01851-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is distinguished from amyloidosis by thicker fibrils and the lack of staining with histochemical dyes typically reactive with amyloid. However, congophilic FGN has been proposed recently and adding laser microdissection followed by mass spectrometry (LMD/MS) to conventional pathological methods would be helpful to diagnose FGN. Here, we report a patient initially diagnosed with FGN whose final pathological diagnosis was changed to immunoglobulin heavy-and-light-chain amyloidosis (AHL) after LMD/MS. CASE PRESENTATION A 75-year-old male developed nephrotic syndrome. Protein electrophoresis showed IgM κ type M proteinemia and he was diagnosed with IgM monoclonal gammopathy. A renal biopsy was performed and pathological examination showed marked periodic acid-Schiff-positive enlargement of the mesangial region and silver stain positivity, but weak direct fast scarlet staining. Immunofluorescence analysis showed monoclonal deposition of IgM-κ chain in the glomerulus. Under electron microscopy, the fibrils were about 20 nm in diameter, which was thicker than typical amyloid fibrils. Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with FGN. Although cyclophosphamide and prednisolone were administered, his renal function deteriorated and progressed to end stage renal disease requiring maintenance hemodialysis. As congophilic FGN has been recognized since 2018, Congo red staining and LMD/MS were performed. The Congo red staining was positive and LMD/MS results indicated that this was a case of AHL. CONCLUSIONS We reported a case of μ and κ chain AHL resembling FGN requiring LMD/MS for definitive diagnosis. Since FGN and amyloidosis exhibit pathological findings, even if Congo red staining is positive, LMD/MS needs to be considered in cases atypical pathological findings, such as silver stain positivity or thicker fibrils.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Misa Adachi
- Department of Nephrology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Mineaki Kitamura
- Department of Nephrology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan. .,Department of Nephrology, Nagasaki Renal Center, Nagasaki, Japan.
| | - Kumiko Muta
- Department of Nephrology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Akihiro Maekawa
- Department of Nephrology, Nagasaki Medical Center, Omura, Japan
| | - Tadashi Uramatsu
- Department of Nephrology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Masato Tadokoro
- Department of Nephrology, Koritsu Shin-Obama Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Hisano
- Department of Pathology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health School of Medicine, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Naomi Kuwahara
- Department of Analytic Human Pathology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Shimizu
- Department of Analytic Human Pathology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Mukae
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Tomoya Nishino
- Department of Nephrology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lundquist AL, Kalim S, Mojtahed A, Tomaszewski KJ. Case 13-2020: A 29-Year-Old Man with High Blood Pressure, Renal Insufficiency, and Hematuria. N Engl J Med 2020; 382:1639-1647. [PMID: 32320573 DOI: 10.1056/nejmcpc1916254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Lundquist
- From the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Sahir Kalim
- From the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Amirkasra Mojtahed
- From the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Kristen J Tomaszewski
- From the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Medicine (A.L.L., S.K.), Radiology (A.M.), and Pathology (K.J.T.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Said SM, Leung N, Alexander MP, Cornell LD, Fidler ME, Grande JP, Herrera LH, Sethi S, Zhang P, Nasr SH. DNAJB9-positive monotypic fibrillary glomerulonephritis is not associated with monoclonal gammopathy in the vast majority of patients. Kidney Int 2020; 98:498-504. [PMID: 32622524 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2020.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The association of fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) with monoclonal gammopathy has been controversial, although monotypic FGN is currently classified as a monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS) lesion. To define this lesion, we correlated findings by immunofluorescence on frozen and paraffin tissue, IgG subtype staining and serum protein electrophoresis with immunofixation in patients with monotypic FGN. Immunofluorescence was performed on paraffin sections from 35 cases of DNAJB9-associated FGN that showed apparent light chain restriction of glomerular IgG deposits by standard immunofluorescence on frozen tissue. On paraffin immunofluorescence, 15 cases (14 lambda and one kappa restricted cases on frozen tissue immunofluorescence) showed no light chain restriction, 19 showed similar light chain restriction, and one was negative for both light chains. Seven of the 15 cases with masked polyclonal deposits also had IgG subclass restriction and these cases would have been diagnosed as a form of monoclonal protein-associated glomerulonephritis if paraffin immunofluorescence was not performed. Monotypic FGN (confirmed by paraffin immunofluorescence and IgG subclass restriction) accounted for only one of 151 (0.7%) patients with FGN encountered during the last two years. Only one of 11 of cases had a detectable circulating monoclonal protein on serum protein electrophoresis with immunofixation. We propose that paraffin immunofluorescence is required to make the diagnosis of lambda-restricted monotypic FGN as it unmasked polytypic deposits in over half of patients. When confirmed by paraffin immunofluorescence and IgG subclass staining, DNAJB9-positive monotypic FGN is very rare and is not associated with monoclonal gammopathy in the vast majority of patients. Thus, there is a question whether this lesion should be included in MGRS-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samar M Said
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nelson Leung
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Lynn D Cornell
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mary E Fidler
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Joseph P Grande
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Sanjeev Sethi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Pingchuan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Samih H Nasr
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
| |
Collapse
|