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Published on: November 7, 2017
[Mesoamerican nephropathy - a new challenge for occupational physicians]
Katarzyna Kanclerz1, Wojciech Wołyniec1, Przemysław Rutkowski2
1Gdański Uniwersytet Medyczny / Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland (Klinika Chorób Zawodowych, Metabolicznych i Wewnętrznych / Department of Occupational, Metabolic and Internal Diseases).
Abstract:
Mesoamerican nephropathy (MeN) is an endemic form of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that is not related to risk factors for CKD, such as diabetes and hypertension. It primarily affects men, rural and agricultural laborers, who work in an extremely hot and dry environment. The greatest increase in the prevalence of CKD, particularly since the late 1990s, has been reported in Central America and Southern Mexico, where the prevalence is almost 9 times higher than in the USA. The highest mortality associated with CKD is reported in El Salvador where a 10-fold increase was recorded in 1984-2005. In histological examination, MeN patients manifest tubulointerstitial lesions and, in some cases, also lesions in the glomeruli. The cause of MeN remains unclear. Repeated episodes of occupational heat stress, and sweating accompanied by water loss, have a significant impact on the disease development. The disease is a significant social and economic problem, and a challenge in the field of diagnostics, therapy and prevention for physicians of many specialties, especially for occupational physicians. Med Pr. 2020;71(3):353-61.
Insights
Mesoamerican nephropathy (MeN) is a chronic kidney disease affecting agricultural workers in hot climates. Its exact cause is unknown, but occupational heat stress and dehydration are suspected contributors.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Occupational Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Mesoamerican nephropathy (MeN) is an endemic chronic kidney disease (CKD) distinct from diabetes- or hypertension-related CKD.
- Prevalence has significantly increased since the late 1990s, particularly in Central America and Southern Mexico.
- High CKD mortality rates are reported in El Salvador, with a tenfold increase observed between 1984-2005.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of Mesoamerican nephropathy (MeN).
- To highlight the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of MeN.
- To discuss the potential impact of occupational heat stress on MeN development.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of endemic CKD in Mesoamerica.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on CKD prevalence and mortality.
- Histopathological findings in MeN patients.
Main Results:
- MeN primarily affects male agricultural laborers in hot, dry environments.
- Histological examination reveals tubulointerstitial lesions, sometimes with glomerular involvement.
- Occupational heat stress and dehydration are implicated in disease development.
Conclusions:
- The etiology of MeN remains unclear, necessitating further research.
- MeN poses a significant socio-economic burden and diagnostic/therapeutic challenge.
- Occupational health strategies are crucial for MeN prevention and management.
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