Interferon-gamma Release Assay-positive Granulomatous Interstitial Nephritis in a Patient with a History of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a common etiology of granulomatous interstitial nephritis (GIN). However, the absence of evidence of lung involvement and lack of mycobacterial isolation in cultures make the etiological diagnosis and treatment decision challenging. We herein report a 46-year-old man with severe renal failure, a persistent fever, and a history of lymphoma. A renal biopsy exhibited GIN. Despite no evidence of tuberculosis except for a positive interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA), the patient was successfully treated with antituberculosis drugs. Our case suggests that anti-tuberculosis therapy should be considered for patients with IGRA-positive GIN after excluding other etiologies.