Immunoglobulin A glomerulonephropathy(IgAN)
Also known as: IgA nephropathy · IgA glomerulonephritis · Berger's disease in dogs · Canine IgA glomerulopathy · Immunglobulin-A-Glomerulonephropathie
Overview
What it is
This is an immune system disorder where specific antibodies called Immunoglobulin A build up in the kidneys' filtering units, known as glomeruli. This accumulation causes chronic inflammation and progressive damage to the kidney tissue, impairing its ability to filter waste. A definitive diagnosis requires a kidney biopsy and urinalysis to detect these antibody deposits under a microscope.
How it presents
Owners may first notice blood or protein in the dog's urine, which can progress to increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and lethargy. These symptoms typically emerge in young to middle-aged dogs as the kidney damage advances.
Treatment
While the condition is incurable, its progression can be managed long-term with specialized diets, blood pressure medications, and immunosuppressive therapies. This lifelong treatment requires ongoing veterinary care, with estimated costs ranging from 3,000 to 12,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Nierenbiopsie und Urinanalyse(Nierenbiopsie)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose der IgA-Glomerulonephropathie wird durch eine histopathologische Untersuchung einer Nierenbiopsie mittels Immunfluoreszenz zum Nachweis von IgA-Depots sowie durch Urinanalysen (Proteinurie) gesichert.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Immunoglobulin A glomerulonephropathy?
This is an immune system disorder where specific antibodies called Immunoglobulin A build up in the kidneys' filtering units, known as glomeruli. This accumulation causes chronic inflammation and progressive damage to the kidney tissue, impairing its ability to filter waste. A definitive diagnosis requires a kidney biopsy and urinalysis to detect these antibody deposits under a microscope.
How is Immunoglobulin A glomerulonephropathy tested?
Tests currently in our database: Nierenbiopsie und Urinanalyse.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.