[Berger disease: therapeutic algorithm proposal and chronic renal failure predictive factors]

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Immunology

Context:

• Berger disease (IgA nephropathy) is the most prevalent form of glomerulonephritis.
• It affects up to 1.3% of the population, predominantly young adult males.
• The exact etiopathogenesis remains unclear, with suspected links to infections and genetic factors.

Purpose:

• To describe the characteristics, diagnosis, and prognosis of IgA nephropathy.
• To propose a therapeutic algorithm and indicators for disease progression.
• To highlight the shift in understanding IgA nephropathy from a benign condition to a potentially progressive disease.

Summary:

• IgA nephropathy is characterized by anti-IgA and anti-IgG immune complex deposition in the glomeruli.
• Clinical presentation includes macroscopic hematuria after mucosal infections, non-nephrotic proteinuria, and microscopic hematuria.
• Renal biopsy is crucial for diagnosis, especially with persistent proteinuria.

Impact:

• Long-term studies reveal IgA nephropathy is slowly progressive, with up to 50% of patients developing end-stage renal disease.
• Early identification of clinical indicators for disease progression is vital.
• The proposed therapeutic algorithm aims to guide clinical management and improve patient outcomes.