Role of immunologic mechanisms in tubulointerstitial nephropathies.

The immunologic basis of various glomerulonephropathies has been widely investigated and highly publicized. Little recognition, however, has been given to the possible role of the immune system in the genesis of tubulointerstitial nephropathies. Considerable clinical and experimental data have recently appeared suggesting the possible role of immunologic mechanisms in the genesis of various tubulointerstitial nephropathies. This article is intended to review the available clinical and experimental data pertaining to this issue.