Acute renal failure due to lymphomatous infiltration of the kidneys

Unusual Coincidence: Concurrent Cast Nephropathy and Lymphoma Infiltration in an Influenza A-Associated Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) poses a substantial challenge in the management of lymphoma patients and is frequently associated with diverse causative factors. Herein, we report an illustrative case involving a 47-year-old male with influenza A infection who developed severe AKI, which was incongruent with his medical history. Laboratory investigations disclosed aberrant immunoglobulin levels and urinary protein excretion, prompting further evaluation. A renal biopsy revealed the presence of infiltrating lymphoid cells and cast nephropathy, raising suspicion of an underlying hematological disorder. A comprehensive diagnostic workup, including positron emission tomography imaging and bone marrow biopsy, culminated in the definitive diagnosis of splenic marginal zone lymphoma. This case highlights the crucial significance of including lymphoma-associated kidney disorders in the evaluation of unexplained AKI, particularly when encountering unconventional clinical and laboratory results. Swift and precise intervention is of utmost importance in attaining positive results in these rare and complex clinical situations. This study underscores the persistent concern of AKI in lymphoma patients, with lymphocytic infiltration and cast nephropathy as notable elements contributing to the intricate nature of this condition.

Severe Acute Kidney Injury Associated with Transformation of Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia into Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Case Report

Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a rare hematologic disorder that infrequently causes acute kidney injury (AKI). CMML can transform into acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which can be accompanied by a deterioration in kidney function. However, severe AKI due to extramedullary manifestations of AML is rare. Herein, we present the case of a 67-year-old male patient with CMML that transformed into AML with severe AKI necessitating hemodialysis. The cause of the AKI was the AML transformation. The patient, with stable kidney function after chemotherapy for CMML, presented with a sudden decline in kidney function. Hemodialysis was initiated because of severe AKI, and histopathologic evaluation of the kidney biopsy specimen revealed severe, diffuse mixed inflammatory cell infiltrates in the interstitium and c-kit-immunopositive myeloblast-like cells. A bone marrow biopsy was performed because of the kidney biopsy findings suggesting that leukemic infiltration led to the diagnosis of AML. The patient received chemotherapy for AML, and his kidney function recovered. As illustrated in this case, severe AKI can develop as an early extramedullary manifestation during transformation from CMML to AML. Therefore, in patients with CMML and rapidly declining renal function, transformation into AML should be considered and histopathologically confirmed by kidney biopsy.

Renomegaly and acute kidney injury as primary manifestations of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: a report of three cases

BACKGROUND

In adults with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, renal enlargement and acute kidney injury occur infrequently at first presentation, especially in T lymphocytic lymphomas.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report three cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with acute renal injury and bilateral renal enlargement. At diagnosis, one patient presented with an adrenal mass, one patient's lymph node biopsy was consistent with a renal biopsy, and one patient had primary renal lymphoma with no extrarenal disease. Assessment of renal pathology in Case 2 and Case 3 showed interstitial lymphocyte infiltration; the pathological types were non-Hodgkin's diffuse large B lymphoma originating from activated B cells outside germinal centers and non-Hodgkin's T-lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukemia, respectively. Case 1 did not receive anti-lymphoma therapy and died from infection and multiple organ failure within 1 month of hospitalization. Case 2 received eight courses of R-CHOP; her lymphoma recurred 2 years after diagnosis and she died from severe pulmonary infection 3 years after diagnosis. Case 3 received hyper-CVAD regularly and achieved stable renal function; this patient remains under follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Renal lymphoma may have diverse manifestations, especially primary renal lymphoma without extrarenal involvement. Nephrologists should pay careful attention to these manifestations to ensure accurate diagnosis.

A rare cause of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Key Clinical Message

The presentation of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) as the initial presenting sign of acute lymphoblastic leukemia is unusual, as PRES is more often a complication of therapy. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis for pediatric hypertension and its complications.

Abstract

A 6-year-old male presented with a seizure-like episode. Evaluation revealed hypertension and brain imaging showed findings consistent with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Complete blood count showed lymphoblasts, and the cause of his hypertension was determined to be renal infiltration of leukemia cells due to B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Case report: Acute kidney injury as the initial manifestation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a lymphoproliferative disorder often diagnosed after incidental finding of leukocytosis. Renal involvement is usually clinically silent. Symptomatic renal impairment due to CLL/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) cell infiltration in the kidney tissue is uncommon, and acute kidney injury (AKI) as a presenting feature is rare. In this case report, we describe the case of a patient with AKI caused by CLL/SLL infiltration as a presenting feature. Our report highlights the possibility of kidney injury as the first evident symptom of CLL/SLL. Kidney biopsy is the mainstay in these cases in order to establish a diagnosis. Treatment with zanubrutinib resulted in improved kidney function.

B‑cell lymphoblastic lymphoma‑associated renal damage: A case report and literature review

Lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) is a highly malignant form of lymphoma with rapid progression and high mortality. According to the World Health Organization immunophenotype, it is classified into T-lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) and B-lymphoblastic lymphoma (B-LBL). B-LBL often involves lymph nodes and extranodal locations, such as the skin, bones, and soft tissues. However, renal damage as an initial symptom is very rare in B-LBL. The present study presented a rare case of renal involvement in a 30-year-old male patient with B-LBL presenting with acute renal failure with bilateral renal enlargement. Renal involvement is rare in B-LBL, and nephrologists should improve the understanding of this disease.

Renal lymphoma diagnosed on kidney biopsy presenting as acute kidney injury

Introduction:

Renal manifestations associated with hematolymphoid malignancies are known. Primary or secondary involvement of the kidney by lymphomatous infiltration has various clinical presentations. Acute kidney injury is not an uncommon finding in relation to lymphomatous interstitial infiltration proven on kidney biopsy. However, diagnosing it solely on renal biopsy remains a challenge and needs expertise and aid of immunohistochemistry as the prognosis is dismal.

Methods:

This is a retrospective study of kidney biopsy-proven cases of renal lymphoma presenting with acute kidney injury.

Results:

The study included 12 patients with ages ranging from 4 to 50 years who presented with serum creatinine ranging 2.1–9.6 mg%. Renal biopsy findings showed interstitial lymphomatous infiltrate. Two cases were diagnosed as primary lymphoma and the other 10 as secondary lymphomas. Among the 12 cases, nine were B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, of which diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was diagnosed in six (50%), low-grade B-cell type in two (16.6%), chronic lymphocytic leukemia in one (8.3%), and three were T-cell-type. Two were acute T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma and one other was a high-grade T-cell lymphoma. Four patients succumbed. The other four patients are alive; one is on chemotherapy, while two of them are on hemodialysis.

Conclusion:

Acute kidney injury as a presenting feature with lymphomatous infiltration of renal parenchyma is not uncommon. The patchy involvement makes it challenging on kidney biopsy with definitive diagnosis being made with the help of immunohistochemistry. Appropriate multidisciplinary involvement improves patient outcome.

Bilateral nephromegaly due to direct leukemic cell invasion in the initial and relapse phases of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: A case report

RATIONALE

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a relatively uncommon disorder in adults. Kidneys are not frequently invaded by leukemic cells, and patients with adult ALL showing nephromegaly as an initial presentation are rare.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 54-year-old man was referred to our institution for mild anemia and thrombocytopenia. Laboratory tests showed bicytopenia with abnormal lymphoid cells in the peripheral blood and mild renal dysfunction.

DIAGNOSIS

Ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) revealed bilateral enlargement of the kidneys. [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT demonstrated a strong increase in metabolic uptake in the bilateral kidneys. A kidney biopsy revealed a leukemia invasion into the parenchyma. Based on the lymphocytic repertoire, the patient's condition was diagnosed as T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient received hyper-cyclophosphamide, vincristine, adriamycin, and dexamethasone and high-dose methotrexate and cytarabine as induction chemotherapy. After his leukemia relapsed, he received nelarabine as a second induction therapy and underwent haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation.

OUTCOMES

Complete remission (CR) was achieved after chemotherapy. Chemotherapy also improved renal function associated with the normalization of bilateral nephromegaly. Repeated [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose - positron emission tomography/CT posttreatment showedregression of metabolic uptake in the bilateral kidneys. The patient underwent cord blood transplantation at the first CR, but his leukemia relapsed 9 months later. At relapse, bilateral nephromegaly reappeared. Then, the second induction therapy induced CR for at least 10 months after induction therapy.

LESSONS

Although rare, ALL in the initial and relapsed phases can be associated with bilateral nephromegaly and renal impairment due to the invasion of leukemic cells into the parenchyma with or without abnormal leukemic cells in circulation. Leukemia is an important differential diagnosis of renal impairment with bilateral nephromegaly.

Renal Diseases Associated with Hematologic Malignancies and Thymoma in the Absence of Renal Monoclonal Immunoglobulin Deposits

In addition to kidney diseases characterized by the precipitation and deposition of overproduced monoclonal immunoglobulin and kidney damage due to chemotherapy agents, a broad spectrum of renal lesions may be found in patients with hematologic malignancies. Glomerular diseases, in the form of paraneoplastic glomerulopathies and acute kidney injury with various degrees of proteinuria due to specific lymphomatous interstitial and/or glomerular infiltration, are two major renal complications observed in the lymphoid disorder setting. However, other hematologic neoplasms, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia, thymoma, myeloproliferative disorders, Castleman disease and hemophagocytic syndrome, have also been associated with the development of kidney lesions. These renal disorders require prompt recognition by the clinician, due to the need to implement specific treatment, depending on the chemotherapy regimen, to decrease the risk of subsequent chronic kidney disease. In the context of renal disease related to hematologic malignancies, renal biopsy remains crucial for accurate pathological diagnosis, with the aim of optimizing medical care for these patients. In this review, we provide an update on the epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiological processes and diagnostic strategy for kidney diseases associated with hematologic malignancies outside the spectrum of monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance.

Lymphoma and the Kidney: A Kidney Biopsy Teaching Case

Lymphomatous infiltration of kidney parenchyma is a frequent complication of systemic hematologic malignancies and often shows subtle clinical presentation. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma represents the most frequent form involving the kidney, with advanced stage at diagnosis, poor outcome, and risk for central nervous system relapse if not adequately treated. Kidney biopsy can provide specific and early detection of these cases, helping in the differential diagnosis with more frequent entities. Finally, further hematologic workup (bone marrow biopsy, complete blood cell count, and positron emission tomography) can distinguish secondary involvement of the kidney from the rarer kidney-limited forms, especially in patients without a previous diagnosis of lymphoma. Making a prompt and correct diagnosis directs the management of these cases and may improve the outcome, as described in the present report.

Relapsed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Presenting as Acute Renal Failure

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the second most common acute leukemia in adults. It is an aggressive hematologic neoplasm, with a bimodal age distribution typically presenting in childhood and the 6^th decade of life (Terwilliger and Abdul-Hay, 2017). Renal injury in ALL is common and can occur through many different mechanisms, such as prerenal acute kidney injury, acute tubular necrosis, renovascular disease, obstruction, glomerulonephritis, and parenchymal infiltration of tumor cells (Luciano and Brewster, 2014). Infiltration of kidneys by leukemia cells is common; however a resultant injury only occurs in about 1% of patients, and renal failure is even more rare (Luciano and Brewster, 2014). Renal failure due to bilateral infiltration of tumor cells has been reported in only a few cases and is thought to be a poor prognostic indicator (Luciano and Brewster, 2014; Sherief et al., 2015). Biopsy is essential to the diagnosis of renal infiltration of leukemia. We present a case of acute renal failure secondary to bilateral renal infiltration of ALL presenting as the first sign of relapse in a young man.

Clinicopathological spectrum of renal parenchymal involvement in B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders

The clinicopathological characteristics of kidney infiltration in B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders remain poorly described. We retrospectively studied 52 adults with biopsy-proven malignant B-cell kidney infiltration, including Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (n=21), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (n=11), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (n=8), other lymphoma (n=11), and multiple myeloma (n=1). Kidney disease varied according to the underlying lymphoproliferative disorder. In DLBCL, malignant kidney infiltration was prominent, resulting in acute kidney injury (AKI, 75%) and kidney enlargement (88%). In the other types, associated immunoglobulin-related nephropathy (most commonly AL amyloidosis) was more common (45%), and chronic kidney disease with proteinuria was the primary presentation. All patients received chemotherapy. Over a median follow-up of 31 months, 20 patients died and 21 reached end-stage kidney disease. Renal response, achieved in 25 patients (48%), was associated with higher overall survival (97 vs. 37 months in non-renal responders). In univariate analysis, percentage of sclerotic glomeruli, kidney enlargement, and complete hematological response at 6 months were predictive of renal response. In multivariate analysis, concomitant immunoglobulin-related nephropathy was the sole independent predictor of poor renal outcome. In conclusion, clinical presentation of renal lymphomatous infiltration depends on the nature of the underlying lymphoproliferative disorder. In DLBCL, massive renal infiltration manifests with enlarged kidneys and AKI, and the diagnosis primarily relies on lymph node biopsy. In other B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders, the clinicopathological spectrum is more heterogeneous, with a high frequency of immunoglobulin-related nephropathy that may affect renal outcome; thus kidney biopsy is required for early diagnosis and prognostic assessment.

Renal Dysfunction in Patients With Direct Infiltration by B-Cell Lymphoma

Background

B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders with renal involvement are relatively frequent, but remain poorly described. A kidney biopsy is usually required to detect the renal lesions that are often missed using other diagnostic tools.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 34 patients with renal lymphoma diagnosed by percutaneous kidney biopsy (PKB) at Rennes University Hospital and its affiliated hospital centers between January 1, 2004, and May 1, 2016. Clinical, biological, radiological, and histological characteristics were collected at biopsy time.

Results

The included patients had Waldenström macroglobulinemia (n = 12; 35.3%), chronic lymphocytic leukemia/lymphocytic lymphoma (n = 10; 29.5%), high-grade B-cell lymphoma (n = 6; 17.6%), and low-grade B-cell lymphoma (n = 6; 17.6%). The median follow-up was 29 months. Renal involvement led to renal function impairment in 29 patients (85.3%), among whom 20 had acute kidney injury (70%), and to nephrotic syndrome in 4 patients (11.8%). Only 13 patients (38.2%) presented morphological kidney anomalies among whom 5 showed bilateral infiltration. Histologically, interstitial infiltrate (97.1%) was the most common kidney lesion, and 9 patients (26.5%) had specific lymphomatous intraglomerular lesions. After hematological treatment (n = 29), a renal response was observed only in 8 patients (27.6%).

Conclusion

Renal involvement in the context of B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders is not uncommon. PKB is the best method to confirm this diagnosis. It should be performed early to rapidly initiate the hematological treatment to preserve kidney function.

Rapidly progressive renal failure due to tubulointerstitial infiltration of peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified accompanied by uveitis: a case report

Background

Rapid decline in renal dysfunction due to primary renal lymphoma, or secondary renal lymphoma by infiltration from a primary origin, is extremely rare. There are notably few reports indicating infiltration of T-cell lymphoma into the kidney.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old woman with a sudden body rash and liver dysfunction was brought to our hospital presenting with a dull headache and blurred vision. Laboratory tests revealed rapidly progressive renal failure. Histological examination of the kidney and skin indicated infiltration of peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS). Infiltration of PTCL-NOS to the liver and spleen, and presence of Uveitis masquerade syndrome were suspected. Imaging showed that the lesion was limited to extralymphatic organs. Renal function was improved with administration of steroids, including pulse steroid therapy, before administering cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone (CHOP) therapy.

Conclusions

This is the first reported case of rapidly progressive renal failure caused by perivascular tubulointerstitial nephritis with the direct invasion of PTCL-NOS. In our case, a single steroid dose showed dramatic results with respect to renal symptoms.

A Rare Cause of Acute Kidney Injury: Primary Renal Lymphoma in a Patient with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

We reported a case of primary renal lymphoma (PRL) presented with non-oliguric acute kidney injury and bilateral kidney infiltrates in an individual with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. Acute kidney injury secondary to lymphoma infiltrates is very rare (less than 1% of hematological malignancy). A 37-year-old gentleman with underlying human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease was on combined antiretroviral therapy since diagnosis. He presented to our center with uremic symptoms and gross hematuria. Clinically, bilateral kidneys massively enlarged and were ballotable. Blood investigations showed hemoglobin of 3.7 g/L, urea of 65.6 mmol/L, and serum creatinine of 1630 µmol/L with hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis. An urgent hemodialysis was initiated, and he was dependent on regular hemodialysis subsequently. Computed tomography renal scan showed diffuse nonenhancing hypodense lesion in both renal parenchyma. Diagnosis of diffuse large B cell lymphoma with germinal center type, CD20 positive, and proliferative index 95% was confirmed via renal biopsy, and there was no bone marrow infiltrates. Unfortunately, the patient succumbs prior to initiation of chemotherapy.

Lymphoblastic lymphoma presenting as bilateral renal enlargement diagnosed by percutaneous kidney biopsy: Report of three cases

Renal involvement by lymphoma can be a diagnostic challenge. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an unusual manifestation of lymphomatous infiltration in the kidneys. We report three cases of lymphoblastic lymphoma, a very rare form of lymphoma, presenting with AKI and bilateral enlargement of kidneys, diagnosed by percutaneous kidney biopsy. Lymphomatous infiltration should be suspected with such clinical presentation. Kidney biopsy is a valuable diagnostic tool, to establish the correct diagnosis and subtype of lymphoma for timely initiation of therapy for these aggressive hematological malignancies.

Glomerulonephritis With Masked Monotypic Immunoglobulin Deposits and Concurrent Lymphomatous Infiltration

Kidney injury can be a complication of hematopoietic neoplasia by both direct and indirect mechanisms. Virtually all lymphomas and plasma cell dyscrasias can show kidney involvement, including parenchymal infiltration and by secondary injury. Recently, a unique form of glomerulonephritis with masked monotypic immunoglobulin deposits has been reported, which shows frequent association with hematopoietic neoplasia and a propensity for progressive kidney disease. In many instances, these cases are likely diagnosed as glomerulonephritis with dominant C3 due to the absence of immunoglobulin staining by routine immunofluorescence microscopy. The patient reported here showed lymphomatous infiltration on kidney biopsy and mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis with dominant staining for C3 without immunoglobulins on initial immunofluorescence; however, monotypic immunoglobulin G κ light chain was revealed after additional immunofluorescence staining was performed on the paraffin-embedded tissue. This patient's case highlights the evolving state of kidney biopsy interpretation and the expanding spectrum of kidney disease in the setting of hematopoietic neoplasia.

Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Presenting with Bilateral Renal Masses and Hematuria: A Case Report

Renal involvement is most often seen in conjunction with multisystemic, disseminated lymphoma either by direct extension from a retroperitoneal mass or via hematogenous spread. Primary lymphoma of the kidney is not a common entity and it is a controversial issue on account of the absence of lymphatic tissues in the normal kidney. In this case report, we describe a 19-year-old male with hematuria, acute kidney injury, and bilateral renal masses due to massive lymphomatous infiltration of the kidneys, which was diagnosed as diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma by Tru-Cut biopsy.

Cooperation of ETV6/RUNX1 and BCL2 enhances immunoglobulin production and accelerates glomerulonephritis in transgenic mice

The t(12;21) translocation generating the ETV6/RUNX1 fusion gene represents the most frequent chromosomal rearrangement in childhood leukemia. Presence of ETV6/RUNX1 alone is usually not sufficient for leukemia onset, and additional genetic alterations have to occur in ETV6/RUNX1-positive cells to cause transformation. We have previously generated an ETV6/RUNX1 transgenic mouse model where the expression of the fusion gene is restricted to CD19-positive B cells. Since BCL2 family members have been proposed to play a role in leukemogenesis, we investigated combined effects of ETV6/RUNX1 with exogenous expression of the antiapoptotic protein BCL2 by crossing ETV6/RUNX1 transgenic animals with Vav-BCL2 transgenic mice. Strikingly, co-expression of ETV6/RUNX1 and BCL2 resulted in significantly shorter disease latency in mice, indicating oncogene cooperativity. This was associated with faster development of follicular B cell lymphoma and exacerbated immune complex glomerulonephritis. ETV6/RUNX1-BCL2 double transgenic animals displayed increased B cell numbers and immunoglobulin titers compared to Vav-BCL2 transgenic mice. This led to pronounced deposition of immune complexes in glomeruli followed by accelerated development of immune complex glomerulonephritis. Thus, our study reveals a previously unrecognized synergism between ETV6/RUNX1 and BCL2 impacting on malignant disease and autoimmunity.

Spectrum of renal involvement in hematolymphoid neoplasms: Renal biopsy findings of 12 cases

Spectrum of causes for renal dysfunction in patients with hematolymphoid malignancy (excluding plasma cell dyscrasia) is varied. A retrospective evaluation of “native” renal biopsies referred to our institute during the period from January 2010 to December 2013 revealed 12 cases. Age ranged between 7 and 69 (median 54.5) years. All patients were males. The neoplasms included non-Hodgkin lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Burkitt's lymphoma, intravascular lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic myeloid leukemia. Proteinuria was noted in 66% of the patients (nephrotic range in 5, subnephrotic range in 3). Renal insufficiency was noted in 100% patients. Malignancy-related kidney injury was noted in 75% of the cases. Renal histology showed lymphomatous infiltration (8), membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) (3), intracapillary monoclonal deposit disease (1) and intravascular lymphoma (1). Distribution of lymphomatous infiltration was diffuse in 50% and focal in 50%. We observed that renal dysfunction was predominantly a direct effect, that is, lymphomatous invasion. Paraneoplastic glomerulopathic changes occur in the form of MPGN. Proteinuria of >2 g/day correlated with glomerular disease.

Gross hematuria and focal renal masses as initial features of a mature B-cell leukemia in an adolescent male

We report a case of a 14-year-old boy who presented with gross hematuria and focal bilateral renal masses as presenting features of a mature high-grade B-cell leukemia, Burkitt subtype. The patient was treated with standard chemotherapy with the addition of rituximab and has no evidence of disease on completion. To our knowledge, this is the first case to describe gross hematuria in conjunction with focal bilateral renal masses as presenting features in a pediatric patient with Burkitt leukemia. This unique presentation suggests that early leukemic infiltration of the urinary collecting system may occur but is extremely unusual.

Polycythemia, increased erythropoietin levels in a patient with renal lymphoma

A young male presented to our clinic with 3 months history of shortness of breathness and progressive distension of abdomen. On investigations, patient had renal failure, polycythemia and nephromegaly. A diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was made on renal and lymph node biopsy. Serum erythropoietin concentrations were physiologically inappropriate. – Erythropoietin immunohistochemistry on renal tissue samples demonstrated positive staining for tumor cells. This patient was managed as a case of infiltrative lymphoproliferative disorder with kidney involvement having polycythemia owing to paraneoplastic Erythropoietin production and possibly local hypoxia produced by tumor cells. With maximum efforts, we could not find such an association in the literature.

Acute renal failure and type B lactic acidosis as first manifestation of extranodal T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma

We describe a rare case of a 19-year-old male patient with a history of epilepsy and developmental delay who presented with acute renal failure (ARF) and lactic acidosis (LA) as the first manifestation of T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. Renal ultrasound and CT of the abdomen showed renal parenchymal infiltration, and renal biopsy demonstrated T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. LA, ARF and electrolyte abnormalities were refractory to the initial treatment of bicarbonate infusion and hydration. However, these abnormalities rapidly normalised after the initiation of chemotherapy, suggesting that the LA and ARF were secondary to lymphomatous renal infiltration.

Association of Acute Interstitial Nephritis with Carnivora, a Venus Flytrap Extract, in a 30-Year-Old Man with Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) is a common cause of acute kidney injury and has been associated with a variety of medications. This is the case of 30-year-old man with Hodgkin's lymphoma who on routine labs before chemotherapy was found to have acute nonoliguric renal failure. A kidney biopsy was performed and confirmed the diagnosis of acute interstitial nephritis. The patient had taken several medications including a higher dose of Carnivora, a Venus flytrap extract, composed of numerous amino acids. The medication was discontinued and kidney function improved towards the patient's baseline indicating that this may be the possible cause of his AIN. Proximal tubular cell uptake of amino acids increasing transcription of nuclear factor-kappaB is a proposed mechanism of AIN from this compound.

Acute kidney injury in the cancer patient

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent and significant complication of cancer and cancer therapy. Cancer patients frequently encounter risk factors for AKI including older age, CKD, prerenal conditions, sepsis, exposure to nephrotoxins, and obstructive physiology. AKI can also be secondary to paraneoplastic conditions, including glomerulonephritis and microangiopathic processes. This complication can have significant consequences, including effects on patients' ability to continue to receive therapy for their malignancy. This review will serve to summarize potential etiologies of AKI that present in patients with cancer as well as to highlight specific patient populations, such as the critically ill cancer patient.

Kidney involvement in leukemia and lymphoma

Leukemia and lymphoma are hematologic malignancies that can affect any age group. Disease can be aggressive or indolent, often with multiorgan system involvement. Kidney involvement in leukemia and lymphoma can be quite extensive. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is quite prevalent in these patients, with prerenal and acute tubular necrosis being the most common etiologies. However other prerenal, intrinsic, and obstructive etiologies are possible. AKI can be a direct effect of the malignancy, a complication of the malignancy, or the consequence or side effect of chemotherapy. Nephrotic syndrome and glomerulonephritis, often presenting without overt kidney failure, have also been seen in all forms of leukemia and lymphoma. Lastly, the direct effects of the malignancy and complications from the tumor often result in numerous electrolyte disturbances and acid-base disorders, with life-threatening consequences if left untreated.

Acute kidney injury and bilateral symmetrical enlargement of the kidneys as first presentation of B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma

Lymphoblastic lymphoma is an uncommon subtype of lymphoid neoplasm in adults. Acute kidney injury at initial presentation due to lymphoblastic lymphoma infiltration of the kidneys has rarely been described. We report a 19-year-old woman who presented with acute kidney injury due to massive lymphomatous infiltration of the kidneys. The diagnosis of B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma was established by immunohistochemical study of the biopsied kidney. The patient had an excellent response to the VDCLP protocol (vincristine, daunomycin, cyclophosphamide, asparaginase, and dexamethasone) with sustained remission. We recommend that lymphomatous infiltration be considered in patients presenting with unexplained acute kidney injury and enlarged kidneys.

A case of acute renal failure caused by Hodgkin's lymphoma: concurrent membranous glomerulonephritis and interstitial HL-CD 20 lymphoid infiltration

Although acute renal failure developing due to malignancies is a frequent condition, malignant renal infiltration is rarely observed among these causes. Among all malignant diseases, the hematolymphoid malignancies are the most prone to renal infiltration. Other types involved in cases with lymphoma are glomerulopathies, including immune-complex glomerular diseases such as minimal change disease, membranous glomerulonephritis, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. We present herein the rare case of a 22-year-old male with both membranous glomerulonephritis and CD20 (+) lymphoid infiltration related to Hodgkin's lymphoma in the renal interstitial tissue, as detected on biopsy. The patient was treated with adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine protocol after pulse corticosteroid treatment, and a dramatic improvement in renal function was observed after 2 days of treatment. In this article, an exceptional renal involvement of Hodgkin's lymphoma is discussed in light of the related literature.

Progressive renal failure in a patient with lung adenocarcinoma

We present an interesting case of a young female smoker who was hospitalized for shortness of breath and acute renal insufficiency (serum creatinine = 2.8 mg/dL). Few weeks prior to admission, she was discovered to have a right lung mass, and a biopsy confirmed lung adenocarcinoma. Her work-up revealed an unremarkable urinalysis quantitatively and on microscopic analysis. Renal ultrasound demonstrated enlarged bilateral unobstructed kidneys, while a nuclear scan showed increased activity in both kidneys. Renal biopsy established the diagnosis of diffuse metastatic infiltration of both kidneys from primary lung adenocarcinoma. Her renal function worsened despite initiation of chemotherapy. Carcinomatous infiltration of the kidneys is an extremely rare and unusual cause of renal injury that must be suspected in a patient with cancer and large kidneys.

The spectrum of kidney involvement in lymphoma: a case report and review of the literature

Kidney involvement is an under-recognized complication of both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The diversity of lymphoma-related renal manifestations makes diagnosis difficult. Although abrupt worsening of kidney function may be the first sign of malignant disease, renal effects can be subtle or even silent. The causes of renal involvement similarly are varied. We discuss a case of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and associated kidney failure from several distinct malignancy-related mechanisms and review the spectrum of lymphoma-related kidney involvement.

[Kidney involvement in hematologic malignancies. Diagnostic approach]

Kidney involvement is frequent in hematologic malignancies. It is associated with adverse outcome and treatment difficulties. It can affect every area of the renal parenchyma (tubules, interstitium, glomerulus, vessels). Various mechanisms could be implicated: deposits of immunoglobulin fractions or crystals, renal infiltration by malignant cells, urinary tract obstruction, paraneoplastic or storage glomerulopathies… Diagnostic strategy relies on the clinical presentation: acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, glomerular proteinuria with or without nephrotic syndrome, tubular proteinuria, hydroelectrolytic disorders. In this review, we detail the diagnostic tests that are needed for the detection and the follow-up of renal involvement in hematologic malignancies, and clarify the indications of renal biopsy. We propose diagnostic strategies of renal involvement in myeloma, Waldenström's disease, high grade lymphomas and acute leukemias, low grade lymphomas and chronic leukemias. The adverse effects of treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, stem cell graft …) are not addressed in this review.

Acute kidney injury requiring dialysis: a very unusual presentation of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Acute kidney injury due to lymphomatous infiltration of the kidneys is uncommon, and it is rarely the initial manifestation of the lymphoma. Here, we present a case of lymphomatous infiltration of the kidneys resulting in acute kidney injury requiring dialysis, as the initial presentation of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Renal biopsy established the diagnosis, and renal function completely recovered after chemotherapy.

[Acute renal failure caused by renal lymphoma. A case report]

Acute renal failure, as the initial manifestation of lymphoma, has been reported only in a few cases. In this work, we report the case of a 28-year-old women admitted for acute renal failure. Her physical examination detected bilateral kidney enlargement. Laboratory evaluation revealed a serum creatinine value 218 micromol/l. A 24-hour urine collection analysis allowed the detection of 1g of protein. No red cells were found after urinanalysis. Renal ultrasound showed massively enlarged kidneys. Renal biopsy of the kidney and pathologic examination showed diffuse infiltration of the interstitium with lymphocytes and atypical cells positive for CD20 markers. A diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell type non-Hodgkin lymphoma was made. However, investigations revealed the presence of two others sites of lymphoma: gastric and ophthalmic. The patient's renal function and kidney size as well as the other lymphoma locations were normalized after the initiation of chemotherapy.

Renal dysfunction due to leukemic infiltration of kidneys in a case of chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Renal failure due to leukemic infiltration of kidney in chronic lymphocytic leukemia is an extremely rare condition. The authors report a case of a 59-year-old white female, with a past medical history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with 2 years of evolution without medical therapy, admitted with nonoliguric acute renal failure needing dialysis. Renal biopsy showed extensive small lymphocytes' infiltration in the cortical interstitium by CLL cells. Cyclophosphamide and prednisolone were started and 1 month later changed to fludarabine plus cyclophosphamide with improvement of renal function. Although renal failure due to leukemic infiltration has been described in many cases of acute leukemia, only 11 cases of renal failure due to CLL cells' infiltration have been described in the literature. Renal histology is an extremely important tool to confirm diagnosis.

Diffuse lymphomatous infiltration of kidney presenting as renal tubular acidosis and hypokalemic paralysis: case report

We report the case of a 22-year-old woman who presented with acute onset flaccid quadriparesis. Physical examination showed mild pallor with cervical and axillary lymphadenopathy, hepatomegaly, and bilateral smooth enlarged kidneys. Neurological examination revealed lower motor neuron muscle weakness in all the four limbs with hyporeflexia and normal sensory examination. Laboratory investigations showed anemia, severe hypokalemia, and metabolic acidosis. Urinalysis showed a specific gravity of 1.010, pH of 7.0, with a positive urine anion gap. Ultrasound revealed hepatosplenomegaly with bilateral enlarged smooth kidneys. Renal biopsy was consistent with the diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B cell type). Metabolic acidosis, alkaline urine, and severe hypokalemia due to excessive urinary loss in our patient were suggestive of distal renal tubular acidosis. Renal involvement in lymphoma is usually subclinical and clinically overt renal disease is rare. Diffuse lymphomatous infiltration of the kidneys may cause tubular dysfunction and present with hypokalemic paralysis.

Acute renal failure caused by renal infiltration by hematolymphoid malignancy

Renal involvement by a malignant infiltrative process is often suspected in patients with bilaterally enlarged kidneys and concurrent malignancies. Acute renal failure (ARF) can rarely occur secondary to such an infiltrative process. We present 2 cases in which ARF is attributable to malignant hematolymphoid infiltration. The first case involves diffuse, bilateral involvement of the kidneys by non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The patient's renal function improved dramatically after the initiation of chemotherapy, clearly linking the development of ARF to the malignant process. In the second case, infiltration of the kidneys by plasma cell leukemia resulted in dialysis dependence. To our knowledge, this represents the first reported case of ARF attributable to documented renal infiltration by plasma cell leukemia. A review of the potential causes of renal failure in hematolymphoid malignancy, focusing on the direct impact of the infiltrative process and on the spectrum of renal disease in plasma cell dyscrasia, is presented.

The role of ultrasound in renal insufficiency: the essentials

Sonography is the best screening modality to evaluate patients presenting with renal insufficiency. Ultrasound findings can be normal in patients with renal disease, especially in prerenal azotemia and acute parenchymal renal disease. Echogenic kidneys indicate the presence of parenchymal renal disease; the kidneys may be of a normal size or enlarged. Small kidneys suggest advanced stage chronic kidney disease. Uncommonly, cystic disease of the kidney, especially adult type polycystic kidney disease may be the cause of the patient's renal insufficiency with bilaterally enlarged kidneys containing multiple cysts of various sizes. If hydronephrosis is present, the level and cause of the obstruction should be sought. When ultrasound cannot diagnose the level and cause of obstruction, other imaging modalities, including CT and MRI may be useful. When renovascular disease (arterial stenosis or venous thrombosis) is suspected, spectral and color Doppler can be useful in detecting abnormalities.

Precursor B-cell lymphoblastic leukemia as a cause of a bilateral nephromegaly

Nephromegaly and non-oliguric acute renal failure is an unusual manifestation of lymphoblastic infiltration of the kidneys. We report the clinical history of a female child where a precursor B-cell lymphoblastic proliferation was diagnosed at the age of 21 months by a surgical renal biopsy for an unexplained bilateral nephromegaly. Lymphoblastic infiltration should be suspected in any patient presenting with unexplained renal failure and enlarged kidneys. The importance of renal biopsy to identify the etiology of renal failure and nephromegaly is emphasized.

Lymphomas diagnosed by percutaneous kidney biopsy

BACKGROUND

Occult renal lymphoma clinically mimicking renal medical disease constitutes a diagnostic challenge to nephrologists, radiologists, and renal pathologists. The clinical and radiological findings, mostly nonspecific or inconclusive, seldom obviate the need for a kidney biopsy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We report 5 new cases of diffuse bilateral renal lymphoma diagnosed by percutaneous kidney biopsy, all presenting with acute renal failure (ARF) of unknown cause. Three cases showed an interstitial and 2 an intraglomerular/intravascular type of lymphomatous infiltration. All tumors were of B-cell lineage. Our cases add to 50 similar cases reported since 1980. Considering all 55 cases together, 39 (87%) of the 44 cases with interstitial and 5 of 11 (45%) of those with intraglomerular lymphoma presented with ARF. In contrast, 5 of 10 cases with intraglomerular but none with interstitial infiltration presented with nephrotic range proteinuria. All but 2 cases (95%) with ARF and interstitial lymphoma but none with ARF and intraglomerular lymphoma showed bilaterally enlarged kidneys. Signs of extrarenal lymphomatous involvement were detected in 24 cases (44%) at the time of kidney biopsy or shortly thereafter. However, in only 10 cases (18%), all with interstitial lymphoma, was a tumor suspected prior to biopsy, mainly based on radiographical evidence of enlarged kidneys.

CONCLUSION

Both types of diffuse bilateral renal lymphoma may clinically mimic renal medical disease. ARF in interstitial and in intraglomerular lymphoma may be due to increased intrarenal pressure and intraglomerular obstruction, respectively. Percutaneous kidney biopsy provides the most expedient means of establishing the diagnosis. Differential diagnosis includes interstitial nephritis and proliferative glomerulonephritis.

Small cell lung cancer as a cause of acute renal failure secondary to bilateral renal infiltration

We describe a patient with acute renal failure resulting from bilateral infiltration of the kidneys by metastases secondary to small cell lung cancer. Treatment with chemotherapy led to a response regarding tumour size and normalization of renal function. We are not aware of this being described previously.

Acute renal failure as presentation of a Burkitt's lymphoma

Acute renal failure due to diffuse renal infiltration is rarely the presenting manifestation of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. We report a patient with acute renal failure secondary to diffuse bilateral renal infiltration by a Burkitt's lymphoma. The presence of bilateral renal enlargement, an elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and lymphopenia should suggest the diagnosis, which can be confirmed by renal biopsy.