RENAL LESIONS IN MICROSCOPIC POLYARTERITIS NODOSA: A REPORT OF EIGHT CASES / 解放军医学杂志

ABSTRACT

A clinico-pathological study was carried out on 8 patients with microscopic polyar-teritis nodosa (MPAN). It was found that the renal lesions were very common and severe in this group of patients apart from the typical presentation of MPAN, including fever, myalgias, arteritis and the involvement of hematologic, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. Laboratory pictures were characterized by leucocytosis, anemia and increased serum creatinine. The plasma anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies were present and thought to be of particular importance. On light microscopy, focal, segmental necrotising glomerulonephritis was discovered which was often associated with extensive crescence formation and vasculitis. We recommend renal biopsy as a valuable tool of investigation in the diagnosis of MPAN.