​Glomerulonephritis​

Glomerulonephritis is the inflammation of tiny filters in the kidney (glomeruli) responsible for cleaning blood.  When the kidney is injured, it cannot get rid of wastes and extra fluid in the body. If the illness continues, the kidneys may stop working completely, resulting in kidney failure.

Causes of glomerulonephritis may include:

• Strep throat infections

• Impetigo which is a skin infection

• Genetics

• Autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus

• Type 1 and type 2 diabetes

• Inflammation of the blood vessels—vasculitis

• Viruses, such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C

• Inflammation of the tissue lining the heart—endocarditis

• Drugs and toxins

If the onset and progression of glomerulonephritis is gradual, it is classified as chronic. If it occurs as a sudden attack of inflammation it is considered as acute.

When to seek expert advice

If you have any of the above symptoms, consult a specialist at the Section of Nephrology.