DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Nephrologic Disease

Glomerulonephritis

HIGH SEVERITY

Inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys. Can be acute or chronic, primary or secondary to systemic diseases. Various types including IgA nephropathy, membranous, minimal change disease, and post-infectious GN.

Global Affected

1.2M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Blood in urine
Foamy urine (protein)
High blood pressure
Swelling (face, hands, feet)
Decreased urine output
Fatigue
Nausea
Headaches
Abdominal pain

Treatment Options

Corticosteroids
Immunosuppressants
ACE inhibitors or ARBs
Diuretics
Plasma exchange (some types)
Rituximab
Cyclophosphamide
Mycophenolate mofetil
Dialysis (if kidney failure)
Kidney transplantation

Risk Factors

1Autoimmune diseases
2Infections (post-streptococcal)
3Family history
4Certain medications
5Vasculitis
6Diabetes
7Goodpasture syndrome
8IgA nephropathy

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Urinalysis
  • 2Blood tests
  • 3Kidney biopsy (definitive)
  • 4Imaging (ultrasound)
  • 5Complement levels
  • 6Autoimmune markers
  • 7Infection screening

Prognosis

Highly variable by type. Post-infectious GN usually resolves. IgA nephropathy slowly progressive. Membranous GN may spontaneously remit. 25-30% progress to ESRD. Early treatment improves outcomes.

Prevention

  • Prompt treatment of streptococcal infections
  • Control of underlying autoimmune disease
  • Regular monitoring
  • Blood pressure control
  • Avoid nephrotoxic medications

Research Status

Treatment varies by type. Corticosteroids mainstay for many forms. Immunosuppressants for severe cases. ACE inhibitors for proteinuria. Research into complement inhibition (eculizumab for aHUS), B-cell depletion, and targeted immunotherapy.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBrazilCanadaChinaGermanySpainFranceUnited KingdomIndiaItalyJapanMexicoPolandRussiaUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.kidney.org
  • https://www.niddk.nih.gov
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.