Nephritis Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is nephritis?
Inflammation within the nephrons of the kidney.
What does nephritis cause?
- reduction in kidney function
- haematuria: invisible or visible amounts of blood in the urine
- proteinuria: although less than in nephrotic syndrome
What are the 2 most common causes of nephritis in children?
Post streptococcal glomerulonephritis and IgA nephropathy (Berger’s disease).
When does post streptococcal glomerulonephritis occur?
1-3 weeks after B-haemolytic streptococcus infection such as tonsilitis caused by streptococcus pyogenes.
What is the pathophysiology of post streptococcal glomerulonephritis?
- immune complexes made up of streptococcal antigens, antibodies and complement proteins get stuck in the glomeruli of the kidney and cause inflammation
- the inflammation leads to an acute deterioration in renal function ⇒ AKI
When should a diagnosis of post streptococcal glomerulonephritis be considered?
- where there’s evidence of recent tonsilitis caused by streptococcus
- this could be a history of tonsilitis, positive throat swab results and anti-streptolysin antibody titres found on a blood test
What is the management for post streptococcal glomerulonephritis?
- supportive
- for patients who develop a worsening of their renal function, antihypertensives and diuretics may be needed if they develop complications such as hypertension and oedema
What is IgA nephropathy related to?
Henoch-Schonlein purpura, which is an IgA vasculitis.
What is IgA nephropathy?
IgA deposits in the nephrons of the kidney cause inflammation (nephritis).
What will be seen on histology of a renal biopsy for IgA nephropathy?
IgA deposits and glomerular mesangial proliferation.
Who does IgA nephropathy typically present in?
Teens or young adults.
What is the management for IgA nephropathy?
Supportive treatment of renal failure and immunosuppressant medications, e.g., steroids and cyclophosphamide, to slow the progression of the disease.
