Pathomorphology of Balkan endemic nephropathy

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) is a chronic kidney disease endemic to specific regions of the Balkans.
• Slavonski Brod county, Yugoslavia, has long been recognized as a hyperendemic area for BEN.
• A high frequency of urinary tract tumors is observed in populations from BEN-endemic regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present relevant pathological, anatomical, and histological findings from a 16-year collection of BEN cases and associated urinary tract tumors.
• To underscore the need for uniform pathomorphological diagnostic criteria for BEN.
• To support the establishment of a centralized archive for BEN cases.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of a 16-year collection of pathological materials from Slavonski Brod.
• Classification and investigation of cases of Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN).
• Examination of concomitant urinary tract tumors in patients from endemic areas.

Main Results:

• A significant amount of material related to BEN and urinary tract tumors was collected and analyzed.
• Key pathological, anatomical, and histological findings are described.
• The study did not speculate on the etiology of BEN.

Conclusions:

• The etiology of BEN and the high incidence of urinary tract tumors in endemic areas remain unexplained.
• Standardized pathomorphological diagnostic criteria for BEN are urgently required.
• A proposal for a BEN case archive involving all investigating centers is supported.