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Human ochratoxicosis and nephropathy in Egypt: a preliminary study

E W Wafa1, R S Yahya, M A Sobh

  • 1Laboratoire de Toxicologie et Hygiène Appliquée, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2, France.

Insights

This study suggests ochratoxin A may be linked to kidney disease and urothelial tumors in Egypt. Higher levels were found in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and urothelial tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Nephrology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Ochratoxicosis, a condition caused by ochratoxin A, is a potential health concern.
  • The link between ochratoxin A exposure and renal disease, including end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and urothelial tumors, requires further investigation, particularly in Egypt.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and correlation of ochratoxin A in patients with various renal conditions and urothelial tumors in Egypt.
  • To assess the potential role of ochratoxin A in the pathogenesis of ESRD and urothelial cancers.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative study involving seven groups: ESRD patients (on conservative treatment and hemodialysis), renal allograft recipients, nephrotic syndrome patients, urothelial tumor patients, potential kidney donors, and healthy controls.
  • Laboratory, radiological, and histopathological evaluations of kidney status.
  • Quantification of ochratoxin A levels in serum, urine, and tissue biopsies (for urothelial tumor group).

Main Results:

  • Significantly elevated serum ochratoxin A levels were observed in patients with ESRD (groups 1 and 2) compared to reference groups.
  • Ochratoxin A was detected in serum and urine of renal transplant recipients (group 3) and nephrotic syndrome patients (group 4), with higher levels in the latter.
  • Positive ochratoxin A detection in serum, urine, and tissue biopsies of patients with urothelial tumors (group 5).

Conclusions:

  • Ochratoxin A exposure is strongly correlated with the development of renal disease leading to ESRD.
  • Ochratoxin A may play a role in the genesis of urothelial cancer.
  • Further comprehensive research on ochratoxicosis and its causal relationship with renal diseases in Egypt is recommended.

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