[Light-chain deposition disease. Presentation of a case]

Pathologica. 1989 Mar-Apr;81(1072):203-11.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

A case of 66-years-old woman with mild renal failure due to deposition of K light chains on glomerular nodules, is reported. Monoclonal K light chains were found by immunofixation in serum and concentrated urine. Bone marrow examination showed a moderate increase of plasma cells, all stained for K light chains. Amyloid was not identified. No chemotherapy was started. Despite this, in the 15-months follow-up, renal function was preserved; no signs of myeloma, nor of extrarenal involvement were found. Careful follow-up is emphasized. The reason why light chains form amyloidoses or nodular deposits, like diabetic glomerulosclerosis of Kimmelstiel-Wilson, is briefly discussed, together with the differential diagnosis from other nephropathies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Amyloidosis / diagnosis
  • Bone Marrow / pathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Glomerulonephritis / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Hypergammaglobulinemia / pathology*
  • Immunoglobulin kappa-Chains*
  • Kidney Glomerulus / pathology
  • Multiple Myeloma / diagnosis

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin kappa-Chains