Shunt Nephritis

Shunt nephritis occurs when a shunt becomes infected with bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus epidermidis. Bacteria from this infected shunt seed the bloodstream, leading to blood infection (bacteremia). In response to long-standing infection (months to years), the body mounts an immune response that results in deposition of immune complexes in the kidney, leading to nephritis.In these infections, IgC and IgM antigen- antibody immune complexes are formed and deposited in the renal glomeruli. The complement system is activated with subsequent depletion of circulating complement factors C3 and C4. Thickening of the glomerular basement membrane, accompanied by mesangial cell proliferation, leads to nephrotic syndrome.

Rule InRule Out

ProteinuriaHematuriaFebrile episodesHepatosplenomegaly

History of VA shunt placement as treatment for hydrocephalus No hypertensionNo azotemiaNo anemia