Rationale:
Lipoprotein glomerulopathy (LPG) is a rare renal disorder that features glomerular capillary lipoprotein thrombi, proteinuria, and progressive renal failure. Although most reported cases describe involvement in Asian patients, occurrence in Caucasian and other ethnicities has also been reported.
Presenting concern:
A 28-year-old Hispanic female with a past medical history of hypertension, high cholesterol, gastritis, and a strong family history of renal disease presented with abdominal pain. On admission, her blood pressure was elevated. A computed tomography scan was unremarkable. Her laboratory studies showed proteinuria, high creatinine level, and an abnormal lipid profile.
Diagnosis:
The kidney biopsy showed glomerular capillary lipoprotein thrombi that stained positively for Oil-Red-O, confirming the lipid nature of the material consistent with LPG.
Intervention:
After stabilizing her blood pressure, the patient was started on fenofibrate to treat her high cholesterol and improve her renal function.
Outcome:
Her lipid profile and renal function were initially improved. However, after one year of treatment, her renal function started to decline and the patient was referred to a transplant center for further management.
Novel finding:
To the best of our knowledge, this the first reported incidence of LPG in a Hispanic female.