Secondary amyloidosis due to Schistosoma mansoni infection

Four children with Schistosoma mansoni infection and the nephrotic syndrome with varying degrees of renal dysfunction were found on histological examination to have amyloidosis. In one boy who had no evidence of renal failure complete clinical regression of his nephrotic syndrome and almost complete disappearance of renal amyloid deposits followed adequate treatment of his schistosomal infection. Conditions known to cause secondary amyloidosis were excluded in all four patients. Amyloidosis in association with mansoni infection is probably more common than is currently recognised. Early treatment of the infection, before renal function becomes impaired, may result in regression of the amyloidosis.