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A thorough review and evaluation of the literature in this area has been published by the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Dortmund, Germany

Ravnskov U. Experimental glomerulonephritis induced by hydrocarbon exposure. A review. BMC Nephrology 2005;6:15 (Free paper)

Glomerulonephritis, the commonest cause of end-stage renal failure in most countries, is worsened and may even be caused by exposure to chemicals present on many work places, at home and in the public environment

The commonest nephrotoxic chemicals are hydrocarbons, present for instance in organic solvents, glues, fuels, paints and motor exhausts. Exposure is common among painters, printers, cabinet makers, fitters and mechanics, electricians, in much manufacturing, and in many other occupations

Also nephrotoxic are silicates, the main components in rocks and sand. Exposure is prevalent among miners, foundry and quarry workers, sandblasters, glaziers, and workers in the production and handling of asbestos, mineral wool and fiber glass

Other chemicals that may promote glomerulonephritis or other kidney diseases include gold, lead, mercury and various drugs, for instance non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs and lithium 

Recent studies have found that even diabetic kidney disease may be worsened by exposure to toxic chemicals. Exposure should also be ruled out in patients with kidney parenchymal diseases of unknown origin

As shown in the following more than 60% of patients with end-stage renal failure caused by glomerulonephritis have been exposed to toxic chemicals. Most important for patients with progressive renal failure is therefore to discontinue any exposure to nephrotoxic chemicals and drugs