Kimmelstiel-Wilson nodules are nodular accumulations of hyaline material found in the glomeruli, characteristic of diabetic nephropathy. These nodules represent mesangial expansion and sclerosis due to chronic hyperglycemia-induced damage to the glomerular basement membrane and mesangial cells. The presence of Kimmelstiel-Wilson nodules is a hallmark histopathological finding in advanced diabetic kidney disease, distinguishing it from other glomerular diseases. This pathology is linked to the progression of diabetic nephropathy toward end-stage renal disease.

Reference: Robbins Basic Pathology, Kumar V et al., 10th Edition.