IgA nephropathy (Berger disease)

Diagnosis

If you observe blood in your urine, you may have IgA nephropathy. Or a regular examination could reveal that your urine contains protein or blood. You’ll also require other tests. They may consist of:

• Urine tests. A laboratory can examine a urine sample under a microscope to assess kidney function and measure the amount of protein being excreted by the kidneys. In the case of IgA nephropathy, the lab examination may reveal the presence of blood in the urine or other indications of inflammation in the glomeruli, which are the small filters within the kidneys.
• Blood examination. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a blood test used to assess the rate at which your kidneys are filtering your blood every minute. It provides valuable information about your kidney function and helps in the diagnosis and monitoring of kidney health.
• Kidney biopsy. This procedure is the definitive method to confirm the presence of IgA nephropathy. It involves using a specialized needle to extract small samples of kidney tissue, which are then examined under a microscope. This microscopic analysis of the tissue allows for an accurate diagnosis of IgA nephropathy.
• Iothalamate clearance test. This test might also be suggested by your doctor. It monitors how effectively your kidneys are filtering waste using a specific contrast agent.

Treatment

The IgA nephropathy condition is incurable. Additionally, it is impossible to anticipate with certainty how the condition will affect your health over time. Some patients just require medical testing to determine whether their sickness is progressing.
For others, medications can help control symptoms and prevent the condition from progressing.

Treatment options for IgA nephropathy include:

• Medication to control blood pressure. Blood pressure can be lowered and the amount of protein the body loses by using medications referred to as ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs).
• Medications to control cholesterol level. This kind of medication can help you manage your excessive cholesterol and prevent kidney damage.
• Diuretics. These can aid in reducing edema or swelling in the hands and feet.
• Immunosuppressants. These are additionally known immune system calming medications. Corticosteroids and other potent medications that can weaken the body’s defenses are among them. The immune system’s production of the proteins that assault the glomeruli may be prevented by them. Serious adverse effects from these medications include an increased risk of infection, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar. Your doctor offers advice to you when you select an immunosuppressant. Numerous novel therapies have received approval or are undergoing clinical trials. Discuss the most recent developments in the treatment of IgA nephropathy with your doctor.
• Omega-3 fatty acids. These beneficial lipids may reduce glomeruli inflammation without having negative side effects. Omega-3s are available in fish oil supplements. But avoid picking things up off the shelf. Ask your doctor if taking fish oil pills on a prescription could be beneficial.

The main objective of treatment is to prevent you from requiring kidney transplantation or dialysis. However, if your kidneys fail to function adequately on their own, either of those procedures may be lifesaving.