Membroproliferative Glomerulonephropathy
- causes and risk factors
- signs, symptoms, and diagnosis
- pathophysiology
- treatments
- consequences and course
- resources and references
Memnroproliferative glomerulonephropathy is common in children and young adults, females moreso than males.
Causes and Risk Factors
Primary membranoproliferative GN can occur in two different patterns.
Type I is the more common, and is caused by subendothelial deposition by immune complexes. It can follow infection, tumours, drug reactions, genetic disorders, SLE, and complement deficiencies.
Type II is cause by activation of the alternative complement pathway following infection.
Signs, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
- history and physical exam
- lab investigations
- diagnostic imaging
History
Lab Investigations
Membroproliferative GN can present with asymptomatic hematuria or combined nephritic/nephrotic syndrome.
Diagnostic Imaging
Pathophysiology
Global basement membrane thickening and mesangial proliferation are seen.
In type I disease, immune complex deposition leads to inflammation and capillary thickening.
In type II disease, C3 complement deposition also leads to thickened capillaries. It is associated with partial lipodystrophy.
Basement membrane is rebuilt on top of areas of damage.
Treatments
Treatment includes dialysis and renal transplantation, but recurrence can also follow transplant, particularly in type II disease.
Consequences and Course
Prognosis can be poor, with frequent progression to end-stage renal failure.
Resources and References