A case of immune complex glomerulonephritis in a dog
Halliwell, R.E.; Blakemore, W.F.
Veterinary Record 90(10): 275-280
1972
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 4557007 Document Number: 45156
A history of dullness and lethargy preceded the extensive subcutaneous oedema, gross ascites, rapid pulse and laboured breathing which were present when the 18-month-old dog was killed. P.M. the kidneys appeared pale with an irregular contour. The capsule stripped easily to reveal a pale, pitted cortex. Histological findings included hyaline eosinophilic casts in many tubules, hypertrophy of the glomerular epithelium, thickening of the basement membrane and amorphous droplets in some Bowman's capsules. Electron microscopy revealed localized deposits of amorphous, electron-dense material between the capillary basement membranes and the epithelium, and in membrane-bound structures in swollen endothelial cells. Deposition of all the major immunoglobulin classes and complement on the basement membranes was demonstrated by immunofluorescence; the electron-dense material seen was assumed to be composed, at least in part, of these substances.