How Fast Does IgA Nephropathy Progress?

The immunoglobulin A (IgA) protein is a healthy component of the immune system. The causes of IgA deposits in the glomeruli are unknown.

• It is inherited more than 10 percent of the time.
• Some people who inherit the gene may not show any symptoms, but they may be able to pass it on to their children.
• Men are more likely to be affected than women.

IgA nephropathy is seen more frequently in Caucasians and Asians and is more common in adults aged 20 to 40 years old.

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy is a condition that often goes unnoticed for years. The onset can happen at any age, but symptoms usually appear before the age of 40 years. 

Blood in the urine is the most common sign (hematuria). It takes a long time for it to reach the point where it causes complications, such as swelling over the body and electrolyte imbalances.

Flank pain and a mild fever are common symptoms of IgA nephropathy. Blood pressure can become dangerously high in very uncommon circumstances.

A physical exam and a review of the patient’s medical history will be conducted by the healthcare practitioner.

Other tests that may be performed include:

• Blood pressure checks
• Cholesterol tests
• Protein in urine tests
• Protein in blood tests
• Kidney biopsy to identify immunoglobulin A (IgA) deposits
  • A sample of kidney tissue is taken and analyzed under a microscope for this test.

The treatment people receive will be determined by their symptoms, severity of the disease, age, and overall health. 

Medicines may be used as part of the treatment, such as:

• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors: Blood pressure medications, especially ACE inhibitors, help lower blood pressure and protect the kidneys. They help keep protein from leaking into the urine.
• Corticosteroids: These drugs help minimize renal inflammation and scar formation, however, they should not be taken by pregnant women.
• Fish oil with a prescription-strength: This helps reduce renal inflammation and damage. Although, more research is needed to prove its efficacy.
• Statins: People who have kidney disease are more likely to have a stroke or a heart attack. Cholesterol control can help lower the risk of both. Statins help manage the cholesterol levels in the blood.

Lifestyle modifications

• Dietary interventions: These interventions include
  • keeping a check on dietary protein consumption (1.32 mg/lb of body weight a day), including complex carbs in the diet,
  • having a high-fiber diet to keep sugars and lipids in check, and
  • avoiding foods rich in uric acid and potassium that help prevent additional kidney injury.
• Quitting smoking and alcohol
• If necessary, exercise and weight loss
• Adequate hydration

Possible complications associated with immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy include:

• Kidney failure
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol