Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026

Generation of Patient-Derived Podocytes from Skin Biopsies
Published on: May 26, 2023
Giant cell transformation of podocytes: A unique histological feature associated with cystinosis
1Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
Fanconi's syndrome is an unusual cause of renal insufficiency in pediatric patients. Infantile cystinosis is one of the identifiable and treatable etiologies of Fanconi's syndrome. Early diagnosis of cystinosis permits institution of specific therapy with cysteamine. A 3-year-old girl presented with failure to thrive, polyuria, and polydipsia. She was found to have renal tubular defect with renal dysfunction and bilateral small contracted kidneys. A renal biopsy revealed extensive giant cell transformation of podocytes in the glomeruli with focal tubular atrophy and dilatation. However, no crystals were identified. Subsequent ophthalmoscopic examination revealed fine cystine crystals in the cornea and a diagnosis of cystinosis causing Fanconi's syndrome was made. Polykaryocytic transformation of visceral epithelial cells is an important diagnostic clue of nephropathic cystinosis and should be carefully looked for in renal biopsy from a child with Fanconi's syndrome and renal insufficiency.
Related Concept Videos
Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...
Renal Tubule and Collecting Duct
Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT):
The PCT is the initial segment of the renal tubule, extending from the Bowman's capsule that encloses the glomerulus. Its convoluted structure and microvilli-lined cells increase the surface area for reabsorption. The PCT reabsorbs glucose, amino acids, sodium, and water from the filtrate, ensuring essential...
Nephrons
Renal Corpuscle
Glomerulus: Structure and Function
The glomerulus is a tiny, intricate network of capillaries located at the beginning of the nephron. It's enveloped by the Bowman's capsule and receives its blood supply from an afferent arteriole, which divides into numerous capillaries...
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction
Catenins
Catenins in Cell Junctions
Catenins bind to cell adhesion molecules such as cadherins and link them to different cytoskeletal proteins depending on the type of cell junction. At the adherens...

