[Sibling cases of nephritis resembling membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis]

Abstract

We have experienced rare cases of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN)-like nephritis, which was seen in siblings. Both the brothers had asymptomatic hematuria and proteinuria at an age before 10, 7 and 4 years old, respectively. Renal biopsy revealed proliferative glomerulonephritis, resembling MPGN type III. The family history showed that their father and grandfather suffered from end-stage renal disease, suggesting that MPGN seen in the present sibling cases is hereditary. A review of the literature revealed that familial MPGN is rare, that most of the cases have urinary abnormalities at an age of less than 10 years, and that male preponderance is seen in familial MPGN.