[The pathogenesis of primary IgA-nephropathy]

The pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy has remained elusive in the twenty years that have passed since the first description of the disease. Based on the recent literature, we present a pathogenetic model in which a primary disorder of immune regulation plays a central role. This disorder of immune regulation results in an increased synthesis of plasma IgAI antibodies by the bone marrow, in response to everyday mucosal infections. Through an unknown mechanism, these circulating IgAI antibodies deposit in the mesangium, and cause an inflammatory response.