What is IgA Nephropathy?
IgA nephropathy (IgAN, Berger’s disease) is a kidney disease characterized by the accumulation of immune complexes containing IgA1 in the glomerular mesangial areas. This IgA1 contains less galactose than IgA1 in the circulation and is termed galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1). The accumulation of the immune culminates in glomerular injury, leading to hematuria, proteinuria, hypertension, and progressive decline in kidney function. Clinical presentation is variable, ranging from asymptomatic microscopic hematuria to rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Diagnosis is established by a kidney biopsy with immunofluorescence showing IgA as the dominant or co-dominant immunoglobulin. Management focuses on blood pressure control, reduction of proteinuria, immunosuppression in selected patients, and supportive and life-style measures to slow progression of chronic kidney disease.
In short: IgAN occurs when galactose-deficient IgA1 accumulates in the kidneys, causing inflammation and injury to the microscopic filters that remove waste from the blood. This can result in blood or protein in the urine, elevated blood pressure, and loss of kidney function.
