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Updated: Aug 14, 2026
Assessment of Kidney Function in Mouse Models of Glomerular Disease
Published on: June 30, 2018
A case of IgM-associated mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis with a giant paramesangial spherical deposit
S Inokuchi1, M Yokomatsu, K Funabiki
1Department of Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
We report a case of IgM-associated mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis with microscopic hematuria and renal tubular dysfunction. On electron microscopy, a giant spherical deposit was observed in the glomerular paramesangial area. Deposition of C3 in the glomerular mesangial areas was not observed by immunofluorescence. IgM-associated mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is clinically characterized by nephrotic syndrome, mild proteinuria and/or hematuria, tubular dysfunction or renal failure, suggesting that it is considered to be a heterogeneous disorder.
Insights
This study details a rare case of IgM-associated mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis presenting with hematuria and tubular dysfunction. A unique giant deposit was found, highlighting the disorder's heterogeneous nature.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Immunopathology
- Electron Microscopy
Background:
- IgM-associated mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is a kidney disorder.
- It can present with various symptoms including hematuria and tubular dysfunction.
- This condition is recognized as a heterogeneous group of kidney diseases.
Observation:
- A specific case exhibited microscopic hematuria and renal tubular dysfunction.
- Electron microscopy revealed a distinctive giant spherical deposit in the glomerular paramesangial area.
- Immunofluorescence did not detect C3 deposition in the mesangial areas.
Findings:
- The case presented with features of IgM-associated mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis.
- A unique ultrastructural finding of a giant deposit was identified.
- Absence of C3 deposition suggests a specific immunopathogenic pathway.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of IgM-associated mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis.
- The findings contribute to recognizing the heterogeneity of this kidney disease.
- Further research may elucidate the role of such deposits in glomerulonephritis pathogenesis.
