IgA Nephropathy

What is IgAN?

IgAN, also known as Berger's disease, is an autoimmune disease that damages the kidneys.

It occurs when your immune system releases an abnormal form of the antibody immunoglobulin A (IgA), called galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1).

Antibodies normally help your body fight infections, but in IgA Nephropathy, Gd-IgA1 forms clumps with other immune proteins.

These clumps of immune proteins build up in the kidneys, causing inflammation and damage to the blood filters in the kidney and reducing kidney function.

IgAN may eventually lead to kidney failure and require dialysis or transplant.

While medications are available to help with the symptoms of IgAN, there is currently no cure.

What are the symptoms of IgAN?

The most common symptoms of IgAN are blood or protein in the urine, which can cause it to look dark or foamy. However, some people may not experience any symptoms.

How is IgAN diagnosed?

Laboratory tests can be performed to measure how the kidney is functioning, but the only way to diagnose IgAN is with a kidney biopsy, which is a procedure that involves collecting a small sample of the kidney.

Where can I learn more?

Ask your doctor for more information about IgAN.

The following resources can help you learn more about IgAN and connect with other patients and caregivers: