Description Glomerulonephritis ...
Description
Glomerulonephritis is a kidney disease defined by the presence of inflammation in the kidney's filtering system (glomeruli). The inflammation causes protein and red blood cells to flow into the urine while toxins that the kidney normally filters are kept in the body. There are different causes of glomerulonephritis. In some instances, it can be caused by infections such as strep throat or autoimmune disorders such as lupus. In other cases, no cause can be identified.
Symptoms
Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Early symptoms may include ankle swelling and fatigue. Later symptoms may include decreased urination, nausea and vomiting.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. Blood and urine tests will be done to measure kidney function. A BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and a creatinine are the most common blood tests performed to measure kidney function. These tests are part of a complete metabolic panel (CMP). An ultrasound of the kidneys may also be performed to measure blood flow to the kidneys. A kidney biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: 24-hour urine protein, kidney biopsy
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Nephrology, Family Practice, Pediatric Nephrology
Workup:
A complete history and physical will be performed. Blood and urine tests will be done to measure kidney function. A BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and a creatinine are the most common blood tests performed to measure kidney function. These tests are part of a complete metabolic panel (CMP). An ultrasound of the kidneys may also be performed to measure blood flow to the kidneys. A kidney biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: 24-hour urine protein, kidney biopsy
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Nephrology, Family Practice, Pediatric Nephrology
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease. If the disease is caused by an infection, treatment is directed at the infection. Diuretics may be used if the amount of urine produced decreases. In severe cases, immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids (Prednisone, Methylprednisolone), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) or mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept) may be used. . If drug therapy cannot prevent kidney failure, dialysis and/or kidney transplant will be needed.