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Renal parenchymal malakoplakia. Histologic spectrum and its relationship to megalocytic interstitial nephritis and
A R Esparza1, D B McKay, J J Cronan
1Department of Pathology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence 02903.
Abstract:
We report five cases of renal parenchymal malakoplakia. They represent a histologic spectrum of this uncommon inflammatory process as it involves the renal parenchyma. Only one of these five cases presented the classical histologic picture of malakoplakia ("diagnostic stage"). Two cases--although with similar cellular infiltrate--had a marked paucity of Michaelis-Gutmann bodies and thus might have been classified as megalocytic interstitial nephritis were it not for the identification of such calcific intracellular inclusions under the electron microscope. The fourth case presented a pseudosarcomatous morphology and is similar to what has been described as a late or fibrous stage in malakoplakia of the urinary bladder. The last case had a destructive, frankly granulomatous histologic picture with a preponderance of foamy histiocytes reminiscent of xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis, but with clusters of von Kossa-positive Michaelis-Gutmann bodies. The last two forms of the disease have not been previously reported to occur in the kidney. We believe that these cases represent various stages of development of the disease.
Insights
This study details five renal parenchymal malakoplakia cases, revealing a spectrum of this rare inflammatory condition. Findings highlight diverse histologic presentations, including previously unreported kidney manifestations.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pathology
- Inflammatory Diseases
Background:
- Renal parenchymal malakoplakia is an uncommon inflammatory process.
- Its histologic spectrum in the kidney is not well-defined.
Observation:
- Five cases of renal parenchymal malakoplakia were analyzed.
- Histologic findings varied, with only one case showing the classical picture.
- Two cases mimicked megalocytic interstitial nephritis, and two presented novel morphologies.
Findings:
- The study identified a spectrum of renal malakoplakia, including pseudosarcomatous and granulomatous forms.
- Michaelis-Gutmann bodies, key diagnostic markers, were present but varied in abundance.
- Electron microscopy confirmed calcific inclusions in cases with few visible bodies.
Implications:
- These findings expand the recognized histologic spectrum of renal malakoplakia.
- Recognizing these diverse presentations is vital for differentiating malakoplakia from other renal pathologies.
- Further research may elucidate the developmental stages of this inflammatory process.
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