Glomerulonephritis

What is glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis is a type of glomerular kidney disease in which the kidneys’ filters (called glomeruli composed of tiny blood vessels) become inflamed and scarred, and slowly lose their ability to remove wastes and excess fluid from the blood to make urine. Types of glomerulonephritis include kidney disease of diabetes, IgA nephropathy, and lupus nephritis.

How is glomerulonephritis diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for glomerulonephritis may include the following:

• urinalysis (to determine levels of protein and red blood cells in the urine) – laboratory examination of urine for various cells and chemicals, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, infection, or excessive protein.
• blood tests (to measure the levels of waste products to determine how well the kidneys are filtering)
• ultrasound of the kidney (to determine whether the shape or size of the kidney is abnormal) – a diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.
• kidney x-ray (to determine whether the shape or size of the kidney is abnormal)
• kidney biopsy a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the kidney for examination under a microscope; to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present.

Treatment for glomerulonephritis:

Specific treatment for glomerulonephritis will be determined by your physician based on:

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of the disease
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the disease
• your opinion or preference