[Kidney involvement in infectious diseases]

Abstract

Involvement of the kidneys without direct invasion of them by the pathogenic agents has been recognized in a variety of infections with bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Pathogenetic importance attaches to immune mechanisms with formation and glomerular deposition of immune complexes, or direct damage caused to the renal parenchyma by microbial toxins. Signs and symptoms may range from minimal proteinuria and/or microhematuria, through nephritic or nephrotic syndrome, to acute or chronic renal failure. Accordingly, all kinds of glomerulonephritis or interstitial nephritis may be found on histological examination. With rapid elimination of the causative agent the prognosis is generally good.