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IgA nephropathy (Berger’s disease)

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Alternative Names:

Nephropathy - IgA; Berger's disease

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent or delay  chronic renal failure

Antihypertensive (high blood pressure) medications and diuretics may be given to control high blood pressure and edema . Control of blood pressure is the most important measure to delay renal (kidney) damage. Sodium (salt) and fluids may be restricted to control swelling . A low- to moderate- protein diet may be recommended in some cases.

The use of ACE inhibitors is key to preventing this disease from getting worse. Corticosteroids, other immunosuppressive drugs, and fish oil have also been used to treat this disorder.

Support Groups:

For additional information and support, see the IgA Nephropathy Support Network website ( www.igansupport.org ).

Expectations (prognosis):

IgA nephropathy progresses slowly. In many cases, it does not progress at all. High blood pressure, large quantities of protein in the urine , and increased BUN or creatinine levels (blood tests that reflect kidney functioning) indicate a higher risk for progression of the disorder.

About 25% of people with IgA nephropathy develop end-stage kidney failure within about 25 years.

Complications:

• Chronic kidney failure
• End-stage kidney disease

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have bloody urine or if your urine output decreases.

• Review Date: 9/13/2005
• Reviewed By: Robert Mushnick, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, SUNY Downstate Health Center, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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