[Athero-embolic nephropathy. Report of 2 cases]

Two cases of athero-embolic nephropathy unrelated with known precipitating factors such as aortic surgery, angiography, anticoagulation or pharmacological fibrinolysis are reported. In one, the histological study additionally disclosed endo-extracapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis. Hypocomplementemia or hypereosinophilia, which some authors consider very characteristic findings, could not be demonstrated in any of the two patients. The difficulties in the diagnosis of athero-embolic nephropathy and the possible indications of renal biopsy are discussed. Emphasis is made on prevention as the best approach to management, no specific treatment being available.