Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis involves damage or inflammation of the glomeruli, which are tiny blood vessels that help the kidneys filter blood.

There are two types of glomerulonephritis:

• Acute glomerulonephritis (begins suddenly)
• Chronic glomerulonephritis (develops gradually, over years)

What Causes Glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis can be caused by:

• Streptococcal infections, including strep throat and impetigo
• Systemic autoimmune diseases, such as lupus
• Other systemic diseases, such as Henoch-Schönlein purpura, polyarteritis nodosa, or Wegener vasculitis
• Alport syndrome

Glomerulonephritis Symptoms

The most common symptoms your child may exhibit include:

• Hematuria, or blood in the urine (Often described as tea-colored or cola-colored)
• Foamy urine caused by excess protein
• Decreased urination frequency
• Sore throat
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• High blood pressure (which can result in seizures)
• Rash on the lower body
• Weight loss
• Joint pain
• Pale or discolored skin
• Swelling in the face, feet, ankles, or other parts of the body (resulting from fluid buildup)

How Is It Diagnosed?

At UVA Health Children's, your child’s doctor may perform or recommend:

• Urinalysis tests for blood and protein
• Blood tests
• Imaging tests, like ultrasound, x-ray, or CT scan to look for problems around the kidney
• Kidney biopsy

Treatment for Glomerulonephritis

Treatment will depend on the cause of the glomerulonephritis. Treatment may include:

• Fluid restriction and special diet
• Medication to control urination, protein level, blood pressure or blood phosphate
• Immunosuppressive drugs
• Steroids
• Dialysis