Question

Patient presented with proximal tubule proteinuria. Which metal is likely to be associated with it?

• A. Cadmium
• B. Mercury
• C. Gold
• D. Lead

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Proximal tubule proteinuria indicates damage to the proximal tubules of the kidney, leading to the leakage of proteins that should otherwise be reabsorbed. This condition can be induced by exposure to certain metals, particularly those known to be nephrotoxic. Among the metals listed, cadmium is most commonly associated with renal damage, specifically affecting the proximal tubular cells.

The mechanism of injury involves the accumulation of cadmium in the kidney, where it disrupts cellular functions and leads to proximal tubular cell injury. This results in proteinuria, as the kidney's ability to reabsorb proteins is impaired.

Metal	Associated Condition
Cadmium	Proximal tubule proteinuria
Mercury	General nephrotoxicity
Gold	Membranous nephropathy
Lead	Fanconi syndrome, chronic interstitial nephritis

Therefore, the metal most likely associated with proximal tubule proteinuria is Cadmium.