Urological Disorders

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Nephropathy

What is IgA nephropathy?

IgA nephropathy is a chronic kidney disease that may progress over a period of 10 to 20 years, and can lead to end-stage renal disease. It is caused by deposits of the protein immunoglobulin A (IgA) inside the glomeruli (filters) within the kidney. These glomeruli normally filter waste and excess water from the blood and send them to the bladder as urine, however, the IgA protein prevents this filtering process. This may lead to:

blood and protein in the urine
swelling in the hands and feet

What causes IgA nephropathy?

The IgA protein is a normal part of the body's immune system. It is unknown what causes IgA deposits in the glomeruli. Genetic factors may be a cause.

How is IgA nephropathy often treated?

Treatment focuses on slowing the progression of the disease and preventing complications, such as high blood pressure, which further damages glomeruli. A treatment recommendation will be made after careful review of your condition and symptoms. Treatment options may include:

diet modification
cholesterol reduction
medication

This page was last updated on: February 28, 2008.

For more information, call the University Physicians Consultation and Referral Service at 1-800-492-5538 (patients) or 1-800-373-4111 (physicians).