Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Male urinary system

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

IgA nephropathy (Berger’s disease)

Alternative Names: Nephropathy - IgA; Berger's disease Treatment: The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent or delay  chronic renal failure Text Continues Below 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 supprt, 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.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.