Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis (GN) refers to inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli). This inflammation can be triggered by autoimmune diseases, infections, immune reactions, or genetic conditions. Common forms include IgA nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, FSGS, post-infectious GN, and rapidly progressive GN. GN may cause blood in the urine, protein leakage, swelling, or progressive kidney damage.

At The Medical Group of New Jersey, nephrologists specialize in diagnosing the specific type of GN and developing targeted treatment plans that may include immunosuppressive therapy, supportive measures, and close monitoring.

Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation

Glomerulonephritis (GN) can develop suddenly or gradually. Symptoms may include:

• Blood in the urine (tea-colored or pink)
• Foamy urine indicates protein loss
• Swelling in the legs, eyelids, or abdomen
• High blood pressure
• Fatigue or reduced kidney function

During your evaluation, your nephrologist will:

• Review recent infections, medications, autoimmune symptoms, and family history
• Perform a detailed physical exam
• Assess blood pressure and swelling
• Order specific tests to determine the nature and severity of inflammation

Diagnosis & Risk Assessment

Diagnosing GN often requires a combination of laboratory and imaging tests, and in many cases, a kidney biopsy. Your nephrologist may order:

• Urine protein and albumin testing
• Urinalysis with microscopy to identify casts or dysmorphic red cells
• Blood tests including complements, ANA, ANCA, anti-GBM, hepatitis panel
• Kidney ultrasound
• Kidney biopsy, which is essential for determining the exact type of glomerular disease

The biopsy provides detailed information that guides treatment decisions, prognosis, and long-term monitoring.

Treatment & Management

Treatment depends on your individual needs and the underlying cause and severity of the disease.

Supportive Therapy

• Blood pressure control with medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs
• Diuretics for swelling
• Sodium restriction
• Management of cholesterol and blood sugar

Immunosuppressive Therapy

For immune-mediated GN, your nephrologist may prescribe:

• Corticosteroids
• Cyclophosphamide
• Mycophenolate
• Rituximab or calcineurin inhibitors

Advanced Therapies

• Plasmapheresis may be required for rapidly progressive disease or anti-GBM antibody conditions
• Hospital-based infusions for severe autoimmune GN

Monitoring & Follow-Up

Your nephrologist will:

• Regularly monitor proteinuria, kidney function, and serologic markers
• Adjust immunosuppressive medications
• Screen for treatment-related complications, such as infections or metabolic changes
• Manage long-term risks for Chronic Kidney Disease

Prognosis & Preventive Care

The prognosis varies widely depending on the type of GN and treatment response.¹ Early diagnosis, appropriate immunosuppression, and regular monitoring greatly improve outcomes.

Patients often benefit from:

• Avoiding NSAIDs
• Controlling blood pressure
• Staying up-to-date with vaccinations
• Managing cholesterol and blood sugar

1. Kazi, Ahmad M., and Muhammad F. Hashmi. “Glomerulonephritis.” PubMed, StatPearls Publishing, 2023.