User:Mr. Ibrahem/IgA nephropathy

IgA nephropathy (IgAN), also known as Berger's disease, is a disease of the kidney that occurs when IgA build up and results in inflammation. Early on there are typically no symptoms. As the disease worsens bloody and foamy urine may occur. Other symptoms may include swelling of the legs. Complications may include high blood pressure, kidney failure, heart disease, and Henoch-Schönlein purpura.

Risk factors include family history, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis. The underlying mechanism is that of an autoimmune disease with antibodies binding to IgA and forming immune complexes. These complexes build up and result in inflammation of the kidneys. The process may be triggered by an infectious disease. Diagnosis is suspected based on blood and urine tests and confirmed by a kidney biopsy.

While there is no cure, treatment often involves medication to suppress the immune system such as corticosteroids or cyclophosphamide. Other measures may include blood pressure control such as with ACE inhibitors and the use of diuretics to remove excess fluids. A kidney transplant may be an option in those with kidney failure. Outcomes are often good.

IgA nephropathy is one of the most common kidney diseases. Onset is generally in late childhood to late 30s. Males are more commonly affected than females. Asian and white people are more commonly affected. The condition was first clearly described by Jean Berger, a Fence Pathologist, in 1968.