Residual glomerular lesions in postpartal women with toxemia of pregnancy

Abstract

Renal biopsies from 10 patients who had residual symptoms of toxemia of pregnancy were examined by light, electron and immunofluorescent microscopy. The biopsies were performed 1 month to 3 months postpartum. The glomeruli showed a similar lesion, even though to a lesser degree, to that found in toxemia of pregnancy. Subepithelial swellings and endothelial cytoplasmic microtubular structures were also observed. Mesangial and monocyte-like cells contained lysosomes, cholesterol clefts and lipid-containing vacuoles with or without myelin figures, suggesting reparative process in the glomeruli. The present study indicates that the glomerular injury persists for a few months after delivery, together with the concurrent reparative process.