Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
|
Alternative names Return to top
Glomerulonephritis - mesangial proliferative; Mesangial proliferative GNDefinition Return to top
Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is a kidney disorder characterized by swelling and blood in the urine (dark urine). It is caused by inflammation of an internal kidney structure (glomerulus), and specifically an increase in number of certain glomerular cells (mesangial cells), accompanied by antibody deposits in the mesangium layer of the glomerular capillary.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis is a form of glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney glomeruli). The mesangial cells (part of the glomerular capillaries) increase in size and number, giving the glomeruli a lumpy appearance.
The mechanism that triggers the disorder is unknown, but it is believed to be some type of immune response, because inflammation of the glomeruli is associated with deposits of antibodies.
The disorder usually causes nephrotic syndrome (protein loss in the urine and swelling of the body). It may be present as acute, chronic, or rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, and may progress to chronic kidney failure.
This is a relatively uncommon disorder. The term mesangial proliferative GN is actually a description of the microscopic pattern of this disease.
It may be seen more commonly in lupus patients who develop GN, and in patients who have IgA mediated kidney disease (see IgA nephropathy). It can affect both adults and children. Men may be affected slightly more often than women.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Examination is nonspecific, except for edema. Signs of acute or chronic renal failure may be present, including high blood pressure, low urine output, and fluid overload.Treatment Return to top
Treatment goals are to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. The disorder is usually chronic, requiring prolonged treatment.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The outcome varies. The disorder may be acute and short-term, or chronic and unresponsive to therapy. Complications can affect the outcome.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if symptoms indicating mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis may be present.
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |