Glomerulonephritis

TL;DR. Malattia renale immunomediata: i complessi immuni danneggiano i glomeruli, causano proteinuria grave e rischio di insufficienza renale cronica.

The glomeruli are the kidney filtration units damaged in glomerulonephritis.

Che cos’è

Glomerulonephritis (GN) targets the glomeruli, the kidney filtration units. Immune complexes trigger inflammation; the filter leaks protein (proteinuria), especially albumin. Complications can include hypertension, edema, and progressive chronic kidney disease. More common in dogs than cats.

Cause e fattori di rischio

Usually secondary to chronic infection, inflammation, or some cancers that drive prolonged antibody production. Primary GN is less common. The veterinarian looks for the underlying trigger.

"Acquired glomerulonephritis (GN) is more common in dogs than cats and results from the presence of immune complexes within the glomerular capillary walls..."

Segni

• Proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema (common)
• Weight loss, lethargy, polyuria/polydipsia (common)
• Hypertension, ascites, thromboembolic events (occasional)

Quando rivolgersi al veterinario

Urgent for sudden edema, breathing difficulty, blood in urine, or marked weakness. Prompt care for ongoing thirst, weight loss, or a swollen abdomen. Do not wait for advanced azotemia alone.

Diagnosi

Urinalysis with urine protein-to-creatinine ratio, blood chemistry (albumin, creatinine, urea), blood pressure, and often biopsy to classify GN. Imaging and workup for infection, immune disease, or neoplasia.

Trattamento

Treat the underlying disease when found. Supportive care can include blood-pressure control, clinician-guided diet, thrombosis prevention in severe proteinuria, and immunosuppression only after diagnosis. No home NSAIDs or diuretics without guidance.

Prevenzione e vita quotidiana

Treat chronic infections and dental disease early. Monitor at-risk patients. Follow medication plans. Prognosis depends on cause, proteinuria severity, and response.

Fonti

Veterinary internal medicine references on proteinuric kidney disease in small animals.

My highlights & notes

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