IgA Nephropathy Signs and Symptoms

IgA nephropathy is a common autoimmune kidney disease which affects the small tubes in the kidneys called the glomeruli.  An antibody called immunoglobulin A lodges in the  glomeruli of the kidneys, creating inflammation and the inability to properly filter the waste from the blood.  IgA nephropathy occurs most often in young adults age sixteen to thirty-five.  We have put together a list of common signs and symptoms of IgA nephropathy below.

Also, we have information on diagnosis, supportive natural therapies, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.

The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of IgA Nephropathy include:

• Dark colored urine
• Foamy urine
• High blood pressure
• Side pain
• Swollen hands and feet
• Low-grade fever

IgA nephropathy is most common in whites and Asians and is rare in blacks.  It is more common in males than in females by a ratio of 2:1.  IgA nephropathy usually progresses slowly over many years.  In 20 percent of the patients, it can lead to end-stage kidney failure after many years.  Other patients achieve complete remission.

Diagnosis of IgA Nephropathy

The only definitive way for a doctor to confirm a diagnosis of IgA nephropathy is through a kidney biopsy.  Urine tests and routine blood work often alert the doctor to the presence of the disease.

Books and Articles With Signs and Symptoms of Nephropathy

IgA Nephropathy Resources

General Patient Resources

• The Foundation for IgA Nephropathy

Complete IgA nephropathy information from the patient’s perspective, with peer support email group and web-based forum.

http://www.igan.ca/

• The IgA Foundation of America, Inc.

Committed to research for a cure, public education and patient service

http://www.iganephropathy.org/

• IgA Nephropathy Support Network

Questions about IgA nephropathy, articles and links.

http://igansupport.org/faqs.html

• National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse

A service of the National Institute of Health

http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/iganephropathy/

Medical Resources

• Mayo Clinic

Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, diagnosis, treatment of this kidney disorder.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/iga-nephropathy/DS00856

• Medscape Reference

A discussion of recent studies.

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/239927-overview

• UNC Kidney Center

Detailed information, including information on kidney transplants.

http://www.unckidneycenter.org/kidneyhealthlibrary/iganephropathy.html