[Frequent positivity of the human basophil degranulation test in idiopathic nephrotic syndromes (minimal glomerular changes and segmental and focal glomerulosclerosis)].

Atopic factors play an important role in minimal changes idiopathic nephrotic syndrome ( MCINS ). We therefore studied human basophil degranulation test ( HBDT ) in MCINS and also in patients with segmental and focal glomerulosclerosis ( SFGSNS ) whose relation with MCINS is debated. HBDT was performed with 5 or 6 allergens chosen according to the history of patients and results of cutaneous tests. HBDT was positive in 16 out of 28 MCINS and in 14 among 18 SFGSNS subjects. The difference versus 29 Immune Complex glomerulonephritis and 11 blood donors was significant with the chi 2 test. Because the basophil count was low (less than 10/microliter) in 5 cases, 4 of which had a severe nephrotic syndrome, the HBDT was performed later. The allergen most frequently involved was house dust. This was responsible for a significant degranulation in 10 MCINS (45%) and in 11 SFGSNS (68%) patients; degranulation was obtained more frequently with 2 allergens than with a single one. Obviously such a basophil sensitisation does not prove the responsibility of these allergens.