IgA nephropathy: Your expert guide

In this informative article, revered consultant nephrologist Dr James Pattison shares expert insight on IgA nephropathy, a kidney disorder in which a type of antibody builds up in the organ’s tissue.

What is IgA nephropathy?

IgA nephropathy is the commonest type of glomerulonephritis. It is characterised by deposition of a serum antibody IgA in the kidney which causes inflammation and damage to the glomeruli which are the filters of the kidney.

What are the causes of IgA nephropathy?

Usually, the cause is not known but it can be secondary to some other disease such as cirrhosis or inflammatory bowel disease.

What are the symptoms of IgA nephropathy?

Patients may be asymptomatic and be detected on a routine medical when traces of blood and protein are present in the urine. In younger patients it may present with episodes of visible blood in the urine triggered by a sore throat. Patients also present with high blood pressure and reduced renal function.

How is IgA nephropathy diagnosed?

It is suspected when traces of blood and protein are found in the urine. However, it can only be definitively diagnosed by performing a kidney biopsy.

What are the treatment options for IgA nephropathy?

Lifestyle changes include losing weight, taking exercise, stopping smoking and eating a low salt and animal protein diet. Treatment revolves around good blood pressure and for patients with proteinuria this involves using ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor inhibitors. There is increasing evidence for the use of SGLT2 inhibitors. There are many drugs in the pipeline and the treatment options are likely to multiply in the next few years. Treatment with immunosuppression remains controversial.

What are the long-term complications of IgA nephropathy?

The main concern is the risk of developing kidney failure. In most patients this develops very slowly but in a small proportion of patients this can occur much more rapidly.

What is the outlook for people with IgA nephropathy?

A large proportion of patients will never develop reduced kidney function. The remainder will eventually develop kidney failure but with the advent of newer treatments it is to be expected that the rate of progression can be slowed.

To schedule a consultation with Dr Pattison, visit his Top Doctors profile today.