Serum levels of IgG antibodies against Tamm-Horsfall protein and urinary excretion of NAG and alpha-1-microglobulin as possible markers for tubular damage in patients with a continent ileal reservoir for urinary diversion.

Serum IgG antibodies against Tamm-Horsfall protein and urinary excretion of NAG and alpha-1-microglobulin were measured in 26 patients with a Kock reservoir for continent urinary diversion or orthotopic bladder reconstruction in order to detect any signs of tubular damage. None of these markers for tubular damage was correlated to the postoperative observation time ranging between 2 and 16 years. No correlation was found between these markers and signs of renal scarring or upper urinary tract dilatation as judged from urographies. A positive correlation was demonstrated between NAG excretion and antibodies against Tamm-Horsfall protein. The annual reduction in GFR was increased in patients with elevated alpha-1-microglobulin excretion but not in patients with elevated titres of antibodies against Tamm-Horsfall protein or increased NAG excretion. Patients with previous or present reflux nipple problems had elevated excretion of alpha-1-microglobulin. Regular determinations of alpha-1-microglobulin excretion appear to be of value in the follow-up of these patients.