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Glomerulonephritis, Acute

What is it?

Acute glomerulonephritis is a term used to describe a number of underlying disorders that cause a sudden inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny structures in the kidneys that filter waste products from the blood. Inflammation of the glomeruli impedes the filtering process, trapping waste products in the blood and allowing red blood cells and proteins to escape into the urine. Kidney malfunction may also lead to high blood pressure and fluid retention. Acute glomerulonephritis is most common among children, often occurring after a streptococcal infection. Although a few severe cases lead to kidney failure, most subside spontaneously within two weeks to several months. The disease may be more severe in adults.

What Causes It?

  • The condition may occur as a complication of a bacterial infection, which causes inflammation that interferes with normal kidney function.
  • Viral infections, such as mononucleosis, measles, and hepatitis B or C, and parasitic infections, such as malaria, are infrequent causes of the disorder.
  • Autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or other causes of vasculitis (inflammation of small blood vessels) may produce glomerulonephritis and persistent kidney damage.

Prevention

  • There is no way to prevent acute glomerulonephritis.

Diagnosis

  • Patient history and physical examination.
  • Blood and urine tests.
  • A kidney biopsy may be done if symptoms persist or if an underlying systemic disorder is suspected.

How to Treat It

  • Hypertension is treated with medication.
  • Diuretics and a low-salt diet may be used to reduce excess fluid retention and increase urine output.
  • If the disorder is the result of an underlying bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • Steroid medications and immunosuppressive drugs are prescribed under appropriate circumstances.
  • Kidney dialysis treatments are sometimes needed.

When to Call a Doctor

  • Call a doctor if you or your child develop symptoms of acute glomerulonephritis.