The importance of immunoglobulin A nephropathy early diagnosis and management – case report

Abstract

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy is one of the most common glomerulonephritis. Its clinical manifestations vary from asymptomatic forms to cases with nephritic syndrome or nephrotic-range proteinuria. The prognosis depends on the level of proteinuria, decline of glomerular filtration rate and control of blood pressure. The pathognomonic histological changes are represented by the granular IgA deposits in the mesangium. The treatment consists of comprehensive support care and immunosuppressive therapy. We discuss the case of a 50-year-old man who presented microscopic hematuria, nephrotic-range proteinuria and decreased renal function, exacerbated in the last 6 months prior the admission. We performed a renal biopsy and granular deposits were present in the glomerular mesangium that were highly suggestive for IgA nephropathy. Immunosuppressive therapy was instituted immediately, but the decline of the renal function continued and renal replacement therapy was needed. Patients with poor prognosis have an unsatisfactory response to the immunosuppressants, especially those with a delayed diagnosis.