IgA nephropathy (Berger's disease)

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice Tests and diagnosis

Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention Lifestyle and home remedies Coping and support

Definition

Your kidneys are complex organs whose primary job is to remove waste and excess fluid from your body. IgA nephropathy — also called Berger's disease — is a kidney disorder caused by abnormal deposits of the immunoglobulin A (IgA) inside the small blood vessels (glomeruli) of your kidneys. Glomeruli normally filter waste and excess water from your blood. This filtered material then goes through small fluid-collecting tubes (renal tubules) and eventually ends up in your bladder as urine. IgA deposits in the glomeruli hamper this process and can lead to blood and protein in your urine, high blood pressure, and swelling in your hands and feet.

A chronic condition that develops gradually, IgA nephropathy most often affects young men. But it can occur at any age in both males and females. IgA nephropathy is the most common form of primary glomerulonephritis, a type of kidney disease that hinders your kidneys' ability to remove waste and excess fluids.

IgA nephropathy usually progresses slowly over many years. Although estimates vary, about one in four people with the disease may eventually develop end-stage kidney failure. No cure exists for IgA nephropathy, but medications are available that can slow its progression. Keeping your blood pressure under control, limiting protein in your diet and reducing your cholesterol levels also may help keep IgA nephropathy in check. It's also wise to not use tobacco in any form.

NEXT:

Symptoms