IgA nephropathy is a kidney disease in which immunoglobulin A (IgA) deposits build up in the glomeruli, causing inflammation and damage to these filtering units. This impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and maintain fluid, electrolyte, and mineral balance. IgA nephropathy is also called Berger’s disease and is one of the most common forms of primary glomerulonephritis worldwide.
Yes, IgA nephropathy is relatively common, particularly in young adults. It often presents after an upper respiratory or gastrointestinal infection. The disease course is variable: some individuals remain stable for years, while others slowly progress to chronic kidney disease Rarely, some patients develop rapidly progressive disease (crescentic IgA nephropathy.
There is no definitive cure for IgA nephropathy, but progression can often be slowed with early diagnosis and proper management. Treatments aim to reduce proteinuria, control blood pressure, and limit glomerular damage. Rarely, some patients develop rapidly progressive disease, known as crescentic IgA nephropathy, which requires aggressive therapy.
IgA nephropathy occurs when IgA, an antibody that normally helps fight infections, deposits abnormally in the kidney glomeruli. The exact cause is not fully understood but is believed to involve genetic susceptibility, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers such as infections.
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Symptoms can be subtle and may include:
Some patients remain asymptomatic for years, with kidney function gradually declining without obvious warning signs.
Diagnosis relies on laboratory tests, imaging, and kidney biopsy:
Blood tests
Urine tests
Imaging
Kidney biopsy
Treatment aims to preserve kidney function and reduce proteinuria:
Supportive care
Immunosuppressive therapy
Advanced therapy
Seek urgent care if:
Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Siddiqui is the Chief Medical Officer at TeleMed2U responsible for clinical and technical program development as well as maintaining a thriving telemedicine practice in infectious diseases which includes specialized care of Hepatitis and HIV.
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