TINU syndrome: review of the literature and case report

Abstract

Introduction: Tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis syndrome (TINU Syndrome) is an uncommon clinical entity, and the majority of patients are adolescents and young women. The case reported refers to an elderly patient with ophthalmologic symptoms detected earlier than kidney manifestations, being probably the first case described in Brazil.

Case report: Female patient, 60 years-old, sought medical attention for complaints of "red eye". Three months after the first episode of eye manifestation, the patient presented with systemic symptoms and renal dysfunction. Renal biopsy showed tubulointerstitial nephritis with signs of activity.

Discussion: The pathophysiology of TINU Syndrome remains poorly understood, probably involving both cellular and humoral immunity. This syndrome can be differentiated from systemic conditions associated with nephritis and uveitis, and prior exclusion of other diseases is necessary to confirm diagnosis, especially in the presence of ophthalmologic findings.

Conclusion: The clinical suspicion and the knowledge of the management of the disease by nephrologists, internists and ophthalmologists is mandatory in the treatment of patients with TINU Syndrome.