Membranous nephropathy following exposure to volatile hydrocarbons

Membranous nephropathy occurred in four male patients following exposure of 2, 11, 18, and 20 years, respectively, to various organic solvents. There was absorption through lungs and skin. It is impossible to identify the causative agent among the substantial number of solvents to which the individuals were exposed. There may be a causal relationship between membranous nephropathy and solvent exposure. Although the mechanism of production of membranous nephropathy in these cases is not known, an indirect immunological process mediated by endogenous tubular antigen is suggested. Exposed individuals may have proteinuria for long periods before onset of overt manifestations. Examination for proteinuria is a simple method of screening in these cases.