Influence of regional factors in the distribution of the histologic patterns of glomerulopathies in the nephrotic syndrome.

Analysis of 47 renal biopsies performed on adult patients with nephrotic syndrome in Bahia, Brazil, shows a peculiar distribution of the histologic types with a preponderance of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. The possibility of a regional influence is discussed, particularly with regard to Schistosoma mansoni infection which is endemic in this area and probably an important cause of glomerulopathy.