Cortical Nephrocalcinosis – Overview

• Cortical Nephrocalcinosis
  • Acute Renal Cortical Necrosis
    Most common cause. Associated with severe acute hypotension (shock, sepsis, haemorrhage – e.g. post-partum) and some nephrotoxic drugs/toxins (ethylene glycol).
  • Chronic Glomerulonephritis
    2nd most common cause. Chronic inflammatory destruction of glomeruli with resultant dystrophic calcification. Associated with renal atrophy and smooth contour. Biopsy may be required.
  • Oxalosis
    Primary hyperoxaluria (AR inheritance) is rare and fatal in early life. Secondary is associated with chronic small bowel disease (Crohn’s disease).
  • Chronic Transplant Rejection
    Cortical necrosis and dystrophic calcification from chronic rejection.
  • Alport Syndrome
    Rare syndrome of hereditary nerve deafness and nephritis.

Mnemonic

• Transplant (Chronic Transplant Rejection)
• Alport Syndrome
• Necrosis (Acute Renal Cortical Necrosis)
• Glomerulonephritis (Chronic Glomerulonephritis)
• Oxalosis