Glomerulonephritis

Definition

Glomerulonephritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the glomeruli, which are tiny structures in the kidneys responsible for filtering blood. This disorder can lead to kidney damage and disrupt the body’s ability to eliminate waste and excess fluid. Various causes, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain medications, can trigger this condition, which highlights its significance in understanding kidney health and disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glomerulonephritis can be acute or chronic, with acute cases often presenting suddenly after an infection or illness, while chronic cases develop gradually over time.
2. Common symptoms of glomerulonephritis include hematuria (blood in urine), proteinuria, high blood pressure, and swelling in various parts of the body.
3. Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is a well-known form that can develop following a streptococcal infection, such as strep throat or skin infections.
4. Diagnosis often involves urine tests, blood tests to assess kidney function, and imaging studies or kidney biopsy for further evaluation.
5. Treatment may vary depending on the underlying cause but can include medications to reduce inflammation, control blood pressure, and manage symptoms like edema.

Review Questions

• How does glomerulonephritis affect kidney function and what are the potential consequences if left untreated?
  • Glomerulonephritis leads to inflammation of the glomeruli, impairing their ability to filter blood effectively. This dysfunction can result in a buildup of waste products and excess fluids in the body. If left untreated, it may progress to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation as treatment options.
• Discuss the diagnostic approaches for glomerulonephritis and why they are critical for effective management.
  • Diagnosing glomerulonephritis involves a combination of urine tests to check for blood and protein levels, blood tests to evaluate kidney function, and imaging studies. A kidney biopsy may also be performed for definitive diagnosis. These diagnostic tools are crucial because they help determine the specific type and underlying cause of glomerulonephritis, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring disease progression.
• Evaluate the role of autoimmune responses in certain types of glomerulonephritis and their impact on treatment strategies.
  • Autoimmune responses can play a significant role in certain types of glomerulonephritis, such as lupus nephritis or Goodpasture syndrome. In these cases, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own kidney tissues. Understanding this mechanism is vital because it influences treatment strategies; immunosuppressive medications may be required to manage the autoimmune response effectively. This tailored approach helps to reduce inflammation and prevent further kidney damage.

Related terms

Nephron: The basic structural and functional unit of the kidney that includes the glomerulus and renal tubules.

Proteinuria: The presence of excess proteins in the urine, often a sign of kidney damage, including conditions like glomerulonephritis.

Edema: Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues, commonly seen in patients with glomerulonephritis due to fluid retention.