Nephritis

Question 1

What is nephritis

Answer 1

Inflammation within the nephrons of the kidneys

Question 2

What does nephritis cause

Answer 2

Reduction in kidney function, haematuria and proteinuria

Question 3

Most common causes of nephritis (2)

Answer 3

Post-strep glomerulonephritis, IgA nephropathy (Berger’s disease)

Question 4

When does post strep GN occur

Answer 4

1-3 weeks after a B-haemolytic streptococcus infection - immune complexes get stick in glomeruli

Question 5

What happens in post strep GN

Answer 5

Immune complexes in glomeruli cause inflammation which leads to acute deterioration in renal function leading to AKI

Question 6

Infections pre-disposing to post strep GN

Answer 6

Tonsilitis caused by streptococcus (pyogenes)

Question 7

Evidence for post strep GN

Answer 7

history, throat swab or anti-streptolysin antibody titres on blood test

Question 8

Management of post strep GN

Answer 8

Supportive and around 80% make full recovery. Some can develop worsening of renal function requiring treatment of anti-HTN and diuretics

Question 9

What is IgA nephropathy

Answer 9

IgA deposits in the nephrons of the kidney causing inflammation.

Question 10

Age affected by IgA nephropathy

Answer 10

Usually in teenagers or young adults

Question 11

Management of IgA nephropathy

Answer 11

Supportive treatment of renal failure and immunosuppressnat mediactions such as steroids and cyclophosphamide to slow progression of disease