Investigating Possible Infectious Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology in a Nicaraguan Mining Community.

A chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) has been killing workers in Central America. Occupational heat stress is thought to play an important role. Leptospirosis and hantavirus have been suggested as additional possible risk factors.

Leptospira seropositivity as a risk factor for Mesoamerican Nephropathy.

Background: Leptospirosis is postulated as a possible cause of Mesoamerican Nephropathy (MeN) in Central American workers.

Objectives: Investigate job-specific Leptospira seroprevalence and its association with kidney disease biomarkers.

Methods: In 282 sugarcane workers, 47 sugarcane applicants and 160 workers in other industries, we measured anti-leptospiral antibodies, serum creatinine, and urinary injury biomarkers, including neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), interleukin-18 (IL-18), and N-acetyl-D-glucosaminidase (NAG).

Biomarkers of Kidney Injury Among Nicaraguan Sugarcane Workers.

Background: In Central America, an epidemic of chronic kidney disease of unknown cause disproportionately affects young male agricultural workers.

Study Design: Longitudinal cohort study.

Setting & Participants: 284 sugarcane workers in 7 jobs were recruited from one company in northwestern Nicaragua.

Changes in kidney function among Nicaraguan sugarcane workers.

Background: There is an epidemic of chronic kidney disease (CKD) of unknown etiology in Central American workers.

Objectives: To investigate changes and job-specific differences in kidney function over a 6-month sugarcane harvest season, explore the potential role of hydration, and measure proteinuria.

Methods: We recruited 284 Nicaraguan sugarcane workers performing seven distinct tasks.