Nephrotic syndrome and situs inversus viscerum: correlation or coincidence

J Nephrol. 2005 Sep-Oct;18(5):623-5.

Abstract

Asymmetric human internal organ organization has been a research topic for many years. Currently, although we know many mechanisms leading to the creation of specific internal organ organization, the problem requires further investigation. Transforming Growth Factor-beta superfamily (TGF-beta SF) molecules seem to play a major role in the process. They affect the cell by signaling through type I and II serine/threonine kinase receptors. Smad proteins seem vital in transmitting the signal between the receptor and the nucleus. We present the case of an 18-year-old female patient, who was admitted to the hospital because of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome. Physical examination revealed that the patient also had a complete reversal of the intra-abdominal anatomy - situs inversus totalis. We suggest that disturbed TGF-beta and Smad signaling could be responsible for both nephrotic syndrome and situs inversus totalis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Indoles / therapeutic use
  • Methylprednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / complications*
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Situs Inversus / complications*
  • Situs Inversus / diagnosis
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta / physiology

Substances

  • Indoles
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta
  • trandolapril
  • Prednisolone
  • Methylprednisolone