Hyperechogenic renal parenchyma in potential live related kidney donors: Does it justify exclusion?

Abstract

The aim of this work is to asses the importance of ultrasonic grade I echogenicity in potential kidney donors in the absence of urinary abnormality and with perfect renal function. Thirty four living related kidney donors with this abnormality were included, age range between 23-48years. Ten matched healthy donors were studied as controls.

All cases were thoroughly investigated including measuring GFR by isotopic scan and estimation of renal reserve by dopamine and amino acid infusion. Renal biopsy was done for 17 cases of the echogenicity group and 8 controls. Our results showed that the renal reserve was comparable in both groups. Glomerular changes were found in 41% of apparently normal donors and only one case of controls.

Conclusion: Grade I echogenicity may be sign of unrecognised kidney disease. Renal biopsy is mandatory when such related donors are the only available.