A case of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis with myeloid bodies

Ren Fail. 2012;34(6):801-3. doi: 10.3109/0886022X.2012.673468. Epub 2012 Apr 10.

Abstract

The presence of myeloid bodies in electron microscopy is a characteristic finding of Fabry's disease. Here, we present a male patient, whose renal biopsy findings suggested the coexistence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and Fabry's disease, because of the presence of segmental hyalinosis and/or sclerosis in glomeruli and myeloid bodies in electron microscopy. But finally, Fabry's disease was excluded as a diagnosis because the α-galactosidase A activity in leukocyte and plasma in this patient was within normal limits. After renal biopsy, although he received medication including steroid therapy, his renal function gradually decreased to end-stage renal failure and hemodialysis was initiated. Until now, he does not exhibit any specific symptoms. In conclusion, our case suggests that occasional myeloid bodies in renal biopsy specimens should be interpreted with caution.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental / diagnosis*
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental / pathology
  • Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • Organelles / ultrastructure
  • Renal Dialysis
  • Young Adult