IgA Nephropathy
- causes and risk factors
- signs, symptoms, and diagnosis
- pathophysiology
- treatments
- consequences and course
- resources and references
IgA nephropathy, or Berger's disease, is the most common primary glomerular disease worldwide, manifested by recurrent hematuria.
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.
Signs, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Presentation is often with microscopic hematuria, proteinuria, and renal impairment.
- history and physical exam
- lab investigations
- biopsy
- diagnostic imaging
History and Physical Exam
Lab Investigations
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
Pathophysiology
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