A case of membranous nephropathy during asymptomatic syphilis.
Yudai Kobayashi, Tomohito Doke, Mako Hayashi et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 51-year-old woman presented with weight gain and leg edema, leading to a diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome. Laboratory tests revealed low serum protein and heavy proteinuria. Renal biopsy showed normal glomeruli and granular IgG, C3, C1q deposits, with electron microscopy revealing hump-like deposits. Despite no symptoms of syphilis, she tested positive for active infection. Treatment with antibiotics resulted in rapid remission.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights membranous nephropathy associated with asymptomatic syphilis, demonstrating a unique presentation where typical symptoms were absent.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider syphilis as a potential underlying cause of membranous nephropathy, even in the absence of typical symptoms.
Why it matters
This case underscores the importance of thorough immunological testing in patients with nephrotic syndrome to identify possible infectious etiologies.