IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)
Overview
IgA nephropathy (IgAN), also known as Berger Disease, is a condition that impacts the kidneys when a protein known as Immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps the body fight infections, accumulates in the kidneys. This buildup leads to inflammation, which can gradually impair the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the bloodstream.
At A Glance
Kidney condition
Causes inflammation
Common Signs And Symptoms
- Bloody Or Foamy Urine
- Dark Tea Colored Urine
- Edema
- Fatigue And Weakness
- Flank Pain Affects The Area On Either Side Of Your Lower Back
- High Blood Pressure
Diagnosis Journey
Explore the tests commonly used to evaluate and confirm a diagnosis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN).
UrinalysisA basic urine test that checks for the presence of blood or protein, which may indicate potential issues with kidney function.Urine Protein-Creatinine Ratio (uPCR)A urine test that measures the levels of protein and creatinine, a waste product. This test provides information about the total amount of different proteins in the urine, not just albumin.Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)A blood test used to estimate how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the bloodstream.Kidney biopsyA procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. The results can help identify the cause of kidney problems and assess the risk of future kidney damage.
Treatment Options
There is currently no cure for IgAN, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression.
- 01Blood Pressure MedicationsMedications like ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly used to help control blood pressure and reduce protein levels in the urine (proteinuria).
- 02CorticosteroidsThese medications or other immunosuppressants may be used to reduce inflammation in the kidneys.
- 03Targeted TherapiesBudesonide (Tarpeyo) and sparsentan (Filspari) are FDA-approved targeted therapies for the treatment IgAN.
- 04Kidney Transplant or DialysisFor those whose kidneys stop working, a kidney transplant or dialysis may be an option that can restore kidney function and improve quality of life.
- 05TonsillectomyIn certain cases, especially in younger individuals, removing the tonsils may be considered. This is because the tonsils can be a source of excess IgA, the protein involved in IgA nephropathy.
Ongoing Research
IgA nephropathy is a disease that requires more effective treatment options. In order to find these new treatments, further research is necessary.
Current Research Studies
- There are over 60 IgAN research studies that are actively recruiting patients. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to find IgAN research studies near you.
Research & Resources
Clinical research helps scientists learn more about IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) and develop better treatments for the future.
Related Stories & Profiles
Explore relevant human stories and expert perspectives connected to this condition.
Patient Story
Meet Laura: Staying consistent amidst uncertainty
Patient Story
Meet Judy: Advocating, Parenting, and Living Large
Patient Story
Meet Ruchi Ambike: Living with IgA Nephropathy and Building Community in Canada
Patient Story
Meet Tracy Evans, an IgAN Patient Committed to Supporting Others and Raising Awareness
Investigator Profile
Co-Director, Glomerular Disease Center and Clinical Trials Unit, Renal Medicine Associates
Glomerular Disease Center
Dr. Arun Rajasekaran, MD, FACP, FASN, FNKF, is a nephrologist and clinical trial investigator specializing in glomerular diseases. He earned his medical degree at Kasturba Medical College in Manipal, India, completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine in Orlando, and went on to a nephrology fellowship and an advanced clinical and research fellowship in glomerular diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he later served on the faculty and the core glomerular disease clinic team. He is board certified in internal medicine and nephrology. Today he is co-director of the Glomerular Disease Center and Clinical Trials Unit at Renal Medicine Associates in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and an assistant professor at the Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is a core faculty member of the GlomCon Foundation and is a progam director at the GlomCon Foundation's glomerular disease virtual fellowship. He is a board member of the New Mexico Kidney Foundation. His research interests include IgA nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, and lupus nephritis.