Treatment:

The main goal is to remove the antibodies from the blood. A treatment called plasmapheresis removes blood from the body and replaces it with fluid, protein, or donated plasma.

Powerful anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic medicines (such as prednisone or cyclophosphamide) may be needed.

If kidney failure becomes severe, dialysis may be needed.

Kidney transplantation may be need if you have permanent loss of kidney function. The transplant is usually not done until the level of antibodies drop.

Expectations (prognosis):

An early diagnosis is very important. The patient's outlook is much worse if the kidneys are already severely damaged when treatment begins.

Complications:

• Chronic kidney failure
• End-stage kidney disease
• Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis
• Respiratory failure
• Severe pulmonary hemorrhage (lung bleeding)

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if the amount of urine you produce drops, or if you have any other symptoms of Goodpasture syndrome.