Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis
Key points
- Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is a kidney disorder characterized by swelling and blood in the urine (dark urine).
- Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is a form of glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney glomeruli).
- Signs and tests Examination is nonspecific, except for edema.
- The disorder may be acute and short-term, or chronic and unresponsive to therapy.
Alternative names
Glomerulonephritis - mesangial proliferative; Mesangial proliferative GN
Definition
Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is a kidney disorder characterized by swelling and blood in the urine (dark urine). It is caused by inflammation of an internal kidney structure (glomerulus), and specifically an increase in number of certain glomerular cells (mesangial cells), accompanied by antibody deposits in the mesangium layer of the glomerular capillary.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is a form of glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney glomeruli). The mesangial cells (part of the glomerular capillaries) increase in size and number, giving the glomeruli a lumpy appearance.
The mechanism that triggers the disorder is unknown, but it is believed to be some type of immune response, because inflammation of the glomeruli is associated with deposits of antibodies.
The disorder usually causes nephrotic syndrome (protein loss in the urine and swelling of the body). It may be present as acute, chronic, or rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, and may progress to chronic kidney failure.
This is a relatively uncommon disorder. The term mesangial proliferative GN is actually a description of the microscopic pattern of this disease.
It may be seen more commonly in lupus patients who develop GN, and in patients who have IgA mediated kidney disease (see IgA nephropathy). It can affect both adults and children. Men may be affected slightly more often than women.
Symptoms
- Swelling (edema)
o Around the eyes
o In the extremities, especially the feet and ankles
o In the abdomen
o General - Foamy appearance of the urine
- Bloody or dark urine
- Involuntary weight gain (from retention of fluid)
- Poor appetite
- High blood pressure
Signs and tests
Examination is nonspecific, except for edema. Signs of acute or chronic renal failure may be present, including high blood pressure, low urine output, and fluid overload.
- Urinalysis may reveal blood or variable amounts of protein.
- Fats may be present in the urine.
- BUN and serum creatinine may be elevated, if renal failure is present.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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