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Berger Disease (IgA Nephropathy) Extensive

The most common primary glomerulonephritis in adults.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Berger Disease (IgA Nephropathy) Extensive?

Berger disease (IgA nephropathy) is a glomerular disease characterised by deposition of polymeric IgA1 antibodies with abnormal galactosylation in the glomerular mesangium. It is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide.

Disease progression varies widely; while most cases follow a benign course, 20-40% of patients progress to end-stage renal disease over 20-25 years. Diagnosis is established by kidney biopsy showing mesangial IgA deposition.

Symptoms

Macroscopic haematuria after upper respiratory infection (synpharyngitic)
Persistent microscopic haematuria
Mild to moderate proteinuria
Hypertension (in 30-40%)
Acute kidney injury (in some cases)
Asymptomatic urinary findings (often)

Risk Factors

Asian ethnicity (highest prevalence)
Male sex (2:1)
Family history
Recurrent mucosal infections
Coeliac disease and chronic liver disease (secondary)
Henoch-Schonlein purpura history

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Macroscopic haematuria following upper respiratory infection
  • Persistent microscopic haematuria + proteinuria
  • Acute kidney injury
  • Newly developed hypertension + urinary abnormalities
  • Family history with screening request

Treatment Methods

01
RAS blockade (ACEi/ARB) - first-line treatment
02
Blood pressure control (target <130/80 mmHg)
03
Proteinuria target <0.5 g/day or <1 g/day
04
SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin - new indication)
05
Targeted-release budesonide (TRF-budesonide - in proteinuria persisting >1 g/day)
06
Sparsentan (new dual ARB+ETA antagonist)
07
Immunosuppressive therapy (in crescentic IgAN)
08
MEST-C scoring + Oxford classification (prognosis)
09
Renal transplantation (in ESRD)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.