Glomerulopathies are a group of diseases that affect glomeruli - microscopic filtering units of the kidneys. These conditions can lead, in the absence of diagnosis and early treatmentthe progressive loss of kidney function and the emergence chronic kidney disease.

What are glomerulopathies?
Glomerulopathies are damage to the glomerulistructures in the nephrons responsible for blood filtration and urine formation. I can be:

• Primary - the damage is limited to the kidneys;
• Secondary - occur due to systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis or chronic infections.

Classification and clinical forms:

• Acute glomerulonephritis - sudden onset, often postinfectious, with hematuria, edema, hypertension;
• Nephrotic nephrotic syndrome - characterized by massive proteinuria, generalized edema, hypoalbuminemia and dyslipidemia;
• Nephritic syndrome - hematuria, moderate proteinuria, hypertension and reduced kidney function;
• Chronic glomerulonephritis - progressive, often associated with chronic kidney disease;
• Rapidly progressive glomerulopathies - severe forms with accelerated deterioration of kidney function.

Causes and risk factors:

• Streptococcal infections, viral (hepatitis, HIV);
• Autoimmune diseases (lupus, ANCA vasculitis);
• Diabetes mellitus (diabetic nephropathy);
• Amyloidosis, multiple myeloma;
• Medically (anti-inflammatories, antibiotics);
• Genetic factors or hereditary.

Common symptoms:

• Hematuria (urine colored red or "cola");
• Proteinuria (foamy urine, edema);
• Edema legs, eyelids, abdomen;
• Hypertension;
• Fatigue, weight loss;
• Oliguria (small amount of urine) in severe cases.

Possible complications:

• Chronic kidney disease and the need for dialysis;
• Nephrotic nephrotic syndrome at increased risk of thrombosis and infection;
• Severe high blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances;
• Metabolic acidosis, renal anemia and bone mineral disease in advanced stages.

Diagnosis:
Proper assessment involves:

• Urinalysis and microscopic examination - shows hematuria, erythrocyte cylinders, proteinuria;
• 24-hour proteinuria or protein/creatinine ratio;
• Blood tests - urea, creatinine, albumin, cholesterol;
• Immunology - ANA, ANCA, complement, anti-GBM antibodies;
• Renal ultrasound - to exclude other causes;
• Kidney biopsy - indispensable for the diagnosis of certainty and treatment.

Treatment:
Treatment varies depending on the type of glomerulopathy and the severity of the disease:

• Antihypertensive medication (ACEIs, sartans) - protects the kidneys;
• Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants - in autoimmune forms;
• Diuretics - to control edema;
• Statins and anticoagulant - in nephrotic syndrome;
• Treatment of underlying disease - infections, autoimmune diseases;
• Dialysis - in the terminal stages up to possible kidney transplant.

Prevention and monitoring:
Not all glomerulopathies are preventable, but:

• Chronic disease control such as diabetes and hypertension;
• Prompt treatment of infections;
• Avoiding self-medication;
• Regular monitoring of kidney function (urea, creatinine, urinalysis);
• Balanced lifestyle, reducing salt and excess protein.

Conclusion:
Glomerulopathies are serious kidney diseases that require early diagnosis, specific treatment and close monitoring. Early intervention can prevent severe complications and irreversible loss of kidney function.

For specialist consultations, advanced investigations and personalized treatment plans, you can schedule your appointment at nephrology department or consult guide to glomerulopathies.