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Renal medullary amyloidosis in Dorcas gazelles
B A Rideout1, R J Montali, R S Wallace
1Department of Pathology, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC.
Abstract:
Between January 1976 and September 1987 renal medullary amyloidosis (RMA) was diagnosed in 17 Dorcas gazelles; the necropsy prevalence rate was 17/32 (53%). The most severe amyloid deposits were in the renal medulla; glomeruli were spared. Renal cortical lesions of interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy and dilatation significantly correlated with RMA (P less than 0.01) and were considered to be secondary changes. There were varying degrees of lymphoplasmacytic inflammation and tubular cast formation which did not significantly correlate with RMA. Amyloid was confirmed histochemically and by electron microscopy and was identified as AA type by the permanganate method. Progressive renal failure was the cause of death or necessitated euthanasia in 7/17 (41%) gazelles. RMA in Dorcas gazelles does not appear to be familial. A high prevalence of chronic or recurring Actinomyces (Corynebacterium) pyogenes infections may be an important factor.
Insights
Renal medullary amyloidosis (RMA) affected over half of Dorcas gazelles studied, leading to kidney failure. AA type amyloid was identified, with infections possibly contributing to this disease in gazelles.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Animal Disease Research
- Wildlife Health
Background:
- Renal medullary amyloidosis (RMA) is a significant kidney disease.
- Understanding RMA prevalence and causes in wildlife is crucial for conservation efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of renal medullary amyloidosis (RMA) in Dorcas gazelles.
- To investigate potential causes and secondary changes associated with RMA in this species.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy examination of 32 Dorcas gazelles between 1976 and 1987.
- Histochemical and electron microscopy for amyloid identification and typing (AA type).
- Statistical analysis to correlate RMA with renal lesions and clinical factors.
Main Results:
- A necropsy prevalence of 53% (17/32) for RMA was observed.
- Amyloid deposits were most severe in the renal medulla, sparing glomeruli.
- Interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy/dilatation correlated significantly with RMA, suggesting secondary changes. AA type amyloid was confirmed.
Conclusions:
- RMA is highly prevalent in Dorcas gazelles and can lead to progressive renal failure.
- Chronic infections, particularly Actinomyces (Corynebacterium) pyogenes, may be a significant contributing factor.
- RMA in this population does not appear to be familial.