Chronic tubulointerstitial nephropathy in six okapis (Okapia johnstoni)

Renal tubular atrophy with conical and medullary interstitial fibrosis with severe thickening of the basement membranes of atrophic tubules was found in six okapis (Okapia johnstoni). Focal glomerular atrophy, probably secondary to ischemic collapse of the glomerular capillary tuft, was also observed. Although the etiologies and pathogeneses of these nephropathies are unclear, primary damage of the tubular epithelium appears to be the most likely cause, and toxicity from ingested plant material, possibly willow (Salix sp.), is a possibility.