Long-term observations on tubular and glomerular function in cadmium-exposed persons

Four groups of cadmium-exposed persons, from different workplaces and with different types of exposure, have been followed for periods of 9-20 years. In one group the total observation time is over 30 years, since they were included in Friberg's original study. The studies include determination of inulin or creatinine clearance, protein excretion and specific indicators of renal tubular dysfunction. The results indicate that once tubular dysfunction is established, it is irreversible, even when it is minor. In some persons it was noted that the development of renal dysfunction seemed to be a multistage process. The initial stage is characterized by an increased excretion of low molecular weight proteins like beta 2-microglobulin and ribonuclease. After a period of several years with no or low exposure, there was a relatively sharp increase in excretion of total proteins and albumin and a decrease in glomerular filtration rate. This is interpreted as being the result of further increases in renal concentration of cadmium and in spread of cadmium along the tubules. Metallothionein absorption in the tubules, its catabolism and synthesis must play an important role for the development and progress of the tubular dysfunction. It was not possible to show that a decrease in glomerular filtration rate occurs before low molecular weight proteinuria.