Determination of Histogenesis of Human Kidney in Spontaneously Aborted Human Fetuses from 14 Weeks to 36 Weeks

Aims and Objectives: The development of Kidney is a complex process having two parts the collecting & excretory part. Due to recent advances in the medical field it is now possible for premature babies to survive successfully. The original conception of human fetal Kidney morphology and developmental anatomy is very important for prenatal diagnosis of normal and congenital disorders such as Wilm’s tumor, Hydronephrosis, Multicystic dysplastic kidney, Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, Megacystis, Renal dysplasia etc.

Histogenesis of Kidney according to its gestational age gives overview of these congenital anomalies that are important for a developmental Anatomist , in diagnosing the Genetics aspects, Radiological and Histopathological diagnosis & finally improvising antenatal screening and forecasting the route of treatment.

Methods: The study used 40 kidneys obtained from 20 spontaneously aborted foetuses [11 males and 9 females] ranging in gestation from 14 weeks to 36 weeks. After confirming their age with CRL, they were grouped and then processed to form slides stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The stained slides were seen under light microscope.

Results: At an early gestational age, all kidneys were lobulated and fused by 36 weeks. By 18 weeks, the corticomedullary junction and preformed collecting tubules were plainly visible. By 19 to 23 weeks, well-differentiated PCT and DCT had formed. Well formed pyramids by 28 weeks and medullary rays by 29 weeks were clearly distinguished. Loop of Henle developed and distinguished by 28 weeks. Increased vascularity was seen by 32 weeks to 36 weeks. Nephrogenic zone and undifferentiated mesenchyme decreased and matured glomeruli increased by 36 weeks.

Conclusion: This present study may help us in understanding various renal disorders. This study can also emphasizes on the development of each component in medulla and cortex of Kidney, regarding histological maturity & functional status according to gestational age & gives us an overall panoramic view.