Post-streptococcal GN
Key points
- Post-streptococcal GN is a disorder of the kidneys.
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is now an uncommon form of glomerulonephritis.
- Signs and tests An examination shows edema, especially of the face.
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis usually resolves spontaneously after several weeks to months.
Alternative names
Glomerulonephritis - post-streptococcal; Post-infectious glomerulonephritis
Definition
Post-streptococcal GN is a disorder of the kidneys. It involves inflammation of the glomeruli after infection with certain strains of the streptococcus bacterium.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is now an uncommon form of glomerulonephritis. It is the result of an infection, not of the kidneys, but of a remote site such as the skin or pharynx, with a specific type of Group A hemolytic streptococcus bacterium.
As a consequence of trapping immune complexes (formed from streptococcal antigen, antibodies, and complement) in the glomeruli of the kidneys, the glomeruli become inflamed, causing inefficient filtering and excreting function by the kidneys. Protein and blood may be present in the urine, and excess fluid commonly accumulates in the body. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is usually present.
Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis now occurs less frequently because infections which may make a person vulnerable to the disorder are commonly treated with antibiotics. The disorder may develop 1 to 2 weeks after an untreated throat infection, or 3 to 4 weeks after a skin infection. It may occur in people of any age, especially children 6 to 10 years old. Although skin and throat infections are not uncommon in children, post-infectious GN is a rare complication of these infections.
Risk factors include having a recent history of sore throat, strep throat, streptococcal skin infections (such as impetigo), and other streptococcal infections.
Symptoms
- Visible blood in the urine
- Smoky urine
- Rust-colored urine
- Decreased urine output
- Edema (swelling)
o Swelling of the face or eyes (common)
o Swelling of the feet, ankles, extremities
o Swelling of the abdomen
o Generalized swelling - Cough, with sputum
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- Joint stiffness
- Joint pain
Signs and tests
An examination shows edema, especially of the face. Generalized, peripheral, or dependent edema may also appear. Circulatory congestion is common, with associated abnormal sounds heard when listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope (auscultation). The blood pressure is often high.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
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