Ultrastructural evaluation of changes in the glomeruli occurring in association with renal carcinoma.

The studies aimed at the determination of ultrastructural changes occurring in the glomeruli in association with renal carcinoma. The material was taken from 7 patients with renal carcinoma. Electron-microscopic investigation showed changes in all 7 cases. These studies demonstrated thickening of the glomerular basement membrane with electron-dense deposits on it and irregular thickening with humps. The humps were of high electron density. In some parts beside the electron-dense deposits the less dense electron lucent patches were found within the glomerular basement membrane. The foot processes of the podocytes were obliterated. Occasionally, the podocytes penetrated into basement membrane. There was mild endothelial cells proliferation in some parts, too.