DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Nephrologic Disease

Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephritis (RPGN)

HIGH SEVERITY

A clinical syndrome characterized by rapid loss of kidney function over days to weeks, with crescent formation visible on kidney biopsy. Crescentic glomerulonephritis represents severe kidney inflammation requiring urgent treatment.

Global Affected

150.0K

Countries

15

Symptoms

Rapidly declining kidney function
Hematuria
Proteinuria
Edema
Hypertension
Fatigue
Nausea/vomiting
Shortness of breath (fluid overload)

Treatment Options

Pulse-dose corticosteroids
Cyclophosphamide
Plasma exchange
Rituximab
Dialysis (if needed)
Kidney transplantation (after remission)

Risk Factors

1Anti-GBM disease
2ANCA-associated vasculitis
3Immune complex diseases (SLE, IgA, infection-related)
4Older age
5Infections (post-streptococcal, endocarditis)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Serum creatinine (rapid rise)
  • 2Urinalysis (active sediment)
  • 3Kidney biopsy (crescents on microscopy)
  • 4ANCA testing
  • 5Anti-GBM antibodies
  • 6Complement levels

Prognosis

Guarded; depends on type and timing of treatment. Without treatment, progresses to ESRD within weeks to months. With prompt treatment, 50-80% kidney function recovery possible.

Prevention

  • Early recognition and treatment
  • Prompt treatment of infections
  • Management of underlying autoimmune diseases

Research Status

Medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. High-dose corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, plasma exchange depending on type. Kidney biopsy essential for diagnosis. Early treatment critical for kidney recovery.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilIndiaChinaNigeriaSouth AfricaRussia

Sources

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441873
  • https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/glomerulonephritis
  • 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.