Membranous nephropathy complicating adenolymphoma of the parotid (Warthin's tumour)

Membranous nephropathy has been described in association with many malignancies including various lymphomas. However, it has not been previously described as a complication of benign solid adenolymphoma of the parotid, also called Warthin's tumour. We describe a patient who presented with an adenolymphoma of the parotid, and developed a severe nephrotic syndrome due to membranous nephropathy 6 months after the parotid swelling. The nephrotic syndrome resolved following parotidectomy and a short course of immunosuppression with prednisolone and cyclophosphamide. The possible pathophysiologic mechanisms are discussed.