[Shunt nephritis. 2 case reports and a review of the literature]

Two cases of glomerulonephritis associated with colonization of cerebrospinal fluid shunts inserted for the treatment of hydrocephalus (shunt nephritis) are described and additional 113 cases reported in world literature, are reviewed. Both of our patients were affected by two episodes of shunt nephritis. Complete clinical remission of renal disease followed antibiotic treatment in one patient, and shunt replacement combined with antibiotic therapy in the other. In the 115 cases of shunt nephritis reported to date, the causative organisms, clinical features, pathogenesis, renal histology, treatment, and outcome are discussed in detail. The importance of regular observation for early recognition of this reversible form of glomerulonephritis, is emphasized.