A possible relationship between the nephrotic syndrome and urinary schistosomiasis

Abstract

1. 1) Of 25 consecutive African subjects suffering from the nephrotic syndrome, 15 had urinary schistøsomiasis and three the intestinal form, as judged by examination of the urine, a rectal biopsy and an intravenous pyelogram. 2. 2) In eight of the 15 patients with urinary schistosomiasis, the disease was severe, three having hydronephrosis. In two the hydronephrosis was bilateral and the clinical picture in each case is given. 3. 3) The possible relationship between nephrotic syndrome and schistosomiasis is discussed. 4. 4) Although the evidence produced is inconclusive, it is felt that it should be recorded, if only to draw attention to the possible effect, be it indirect, on the kidneys.