Epidemiology of glomerular diseases in Northeastern Brazil from 2008-2024

Glomerulopathies are the third leading cause of dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Brazil and are most commonly diagnosed by kidney biopsy; however, data regarding the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of glomerulopathies are scarce. The present article reports the results of an epidemiological survey of glomerular diseases in Northeast Brazil.

This retrospective study, based on kidney biopsy data from all states in Northeast Brazil (2008-2024), was conducted at a reference center for kidney pathology. Demographic data (age, sex, and ethnicity), clinical history, indications for kidney biopsy, and histopathological diagnoses were collected. Frequencies are presented as percentages, along with maps and charts.

Data from 2,661 patients (median age, 31 years [interquartile range, 19-45 years]) were included in the study, with a slight female predominance (n = 1,533 [57.6%]). The indication for biopsy was identified in 85.9% of cases, with nephrotic syndrome being the most common (n = 1,075 [40.39%]). Lupus nephritis (LN) was the most frequent etiology (n = 876 [32.9%]), followed by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS; n = 455 [17.1%]). The most common diagnosis among older adults was membranous nephropathy (n = 43 [18.8%]), whereas the most prevalent diagnosis among children was FSGS (n = 105 [24.5%]).

The profile of glomerulopathies reflects not only local biopsy indications but also the heterogeneity of the population of Northeast Brazil and its particular ethnic and socioeconomic characteristics. Glomerulopathies, such as LN, accounted for the majority of cases, indicating the influence of ancestral factors in this region.