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Pelvocalyceal thickening in HIV-associated nephropathy
R H Wachsberg1, A T Obolevich, N Lasker
1Department of Radiology, University Hospital, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
Abdominal Imaging
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Renal pelvocalyceal thickening (PCT) in hyperechoic kidneys may indicate HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN). This finding is significant even without other HIV complications, suggesting HIVAN should be considered in such cases.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Renal pelvocalyceal thickening (PCT) has known causes like infection and obstruction.
- The significance of PCT in hyperechoic native kidneys requires further evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the significance of sonographically detected PCT in patients with hyperechoic native kidneys.
- To determine the association between PCT and specific kidney conditions.
Main Methods:
- Sonographic evaluation of 178 patients with hyperechoic native kidneys for PCT.
- Review of medical charts and sonograms from control groups with nephrosis and hypoalbuminemia.
Main Results:
- PCT was observed in 20 patients with hyperechoic kidneys.
- HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) was diagnosed in 15 patients, with 14 showing bilateral PCT.
- PCT was absent in control groups, indicating specificity.
Conclusions:
- Renal PCT can be a sonographic marker for HIVAN, even without overt HIV complications.
- PCT in HIVAN is not solely due to non-specific nephrosis or hypoalbuminemia.
- Consider HIVAN in patients with hyperechoic kidneys and PCT, irrespective of suspected HIV status.