Glomerulonephritis (GN)

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Glomerulonephritis (GN) is a group of kidney diseases that involve inflammation of the glomeruli, which are the filtering units of the kidneys. Here are some key points about GN:

Types of Glomerulonephritis:

1. Acute glomerulonephritis: Sudden onset of inflammation and damage to the glomeruli.

2. Chronic glomerulonephritis: Long-term inflammation and damage to the glomeruli, which can lead to kidney failure.

3. Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis: Aggressive and rapid progression of inflammation and damage to the glomeruli.


Causes of Glomerulonephritis:

1. Immune system disorders: Conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and vasculitis can cause GN.

2. Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause GN.

3. Genetic disorders: Certain genetic disorders, such as Alport syndrome, can cause GN.

4. Toxins and medications: Exposure to certain toxins or medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause GN.


Symptoms of Glomerulonephritis

  • Hematuria: Blood in the urine.
  • Proteinuria: Excess protein in the urine.
  • Edema: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.
  • Hypertension: High blood pressure.
  • Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak.


Diagnosis of Glomerulonephritis

  1. Urinalysis: Analysis of urine to detect blood, protein, and other abnormalities.
  2. Blood tests: Blood tests to detect kidney function, electrolyte levels, and immune system disorders.
  3. Kidney biopsy: A biopsy of the kidney to examine the glomeruli and detect inflammation and damage.
  4. Imaging studies: Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scans, to evaluate kidney structure and function.


Treatment of Glomerulonephritis

  1. Medications: Medications to control inflammation, blood pressure, and immune system disorders.
  2. Dialysis: Dialysis to remove waste products and excess fluids from the blood.
  3. Kidney transplantation: Kidney transplantation in severe cases of GN.
  4. Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management, to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.


Complications of Glomerulonephritis

  1. Kidney failure: GN can lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or kidney transplantation.
  2. Hypertension: GN can cause hypertension, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  3. Electrolyte imbalances: GN can cause electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and other symptoms.
  4. Anemia: GN can cause anemia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.


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