IgA Nephropathy
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Introduction
IgA nephropathy, or Berger's disease, is the most common primary glomerular disease worldwide, manifested by recurrent hematuria.
The Case of...
a simple case introducing clincial presentation and calling for a differential diagnosis to get students thinking.
Causes and Risk Factors
There is some association with geographical location, as IgA nephropathy is more common in people from France, Australia, and Singapore.
It often affects young men following an upper respiratory tract infection.
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) DR4 appears to increase risk.
Pathophysiology
Signs and Symptoms
- history
- physical exam
History
Physical Exam
Investigations
- lab investigations
- diagnostic imaging
Lab Investigations
Presentation is often with microscopic hematuria, proteinuria, and renal impairment.
Plasma IgA levels are raised.
biopsy
IgA and C3 deposits can be seen in the mesangium of all glomeruli, with some mesangial proliferation. Eventual sclerosis occurs.
Diagnostic Imaging
Differential Diagnosis
Treatments
There is no current effective treatment.
Consequences and Course
Patients with late onset, proteinuria, hypertension, and increased creatinine on presentation have worse prognosis, and up to 20% of patients develop end-stage renal failure.
Resources and References
Topic Development
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