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The Kidney Connection - Glomerulonephritis
EasyLink Access #: 168
Your kidneys contain approximately one million tiny filters called glomeruli. Each of these glomeruli is attached to a small tube that collects fluid called a tubule. Each glomerulus and tubule form a nephron, the functional part of the kidneys. The Filtering Process As it swirls through your kidneys, the blood is filtered by the glomeruli. Normally, the kidney daily filters around 100 gallons of blood. After filtering, the blood travels though veins in the kidney back to the bloodstream. Following its modification by the tubules, the waste travels to your bladder as urine through a tube in each kidney called the ureter and leaves the body through urination. For individuals without kidney disease, around two quarts of extra water and waste products leave their bodies as urine each day. Primary GN Glomerulonephritis (GN), also known as glomerular disease, can be either acute such as a sudden inflammation attack or chronic, which occurs gradually. It can occur as part of a systemic disease like diabetes or lupus or it can be a disease on its own, known as primary GN. Mini-epidemics of the condition have occurred in certain geographic areas and is most common in individuals aged 40 to 60. The condition sometimes runs in families, indicating a genetic factor. Known Causes of GN While the exact cause of GN is often unknown, some of the known causes include: - Infections;
- Immune diseases;
- Vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels);
- High blood pressure;
- Diabetes; and
- Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (scarring of the glomeruli).
Crescentic GN Inflammation of the glomerulus, called rapidly progressive GN (RPGN), damages the internal structures of the kidneys and causes a rapid loss of renal function. A kidney biopsy will show crescent-shaped abnormalities. What is known as crescentic GN occurs when one-half or more of the glomeruli show crescents on the renal biopsy. This condition can worsen rapidly to renal failure in six months or less. Individuals who receive treatment for this condition could recover some of their original kidney function. Unfortunately, it is rare that all the original renal function is recovered. The amount of recovery will depend on the degree of kidney function at the time the condition is diagnosed as well as the degree of crescent formation. The condition may recur. If it occurs in childhood, it is likely that kidney failure will eventually develop. If causative disorders are promptly treated, RPGN may be prevented. If you suffer from GN, however, call your doctor right away if new symptoms develop, including difficulty breathing, increased edema (swelling), or decreased urine production. More Information To learn more about glomerulonephritis and glomerulosclerosis, the condition that causes scarring, log onto: |