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Updated: Apr 19, 2026

Isolation of Glomeruli and In Vivo Labeling of Glomerular Cell Surface Proteins
Published on: January 18, 2019
Current concepts in C3 glomerulopathy
S Thomas1, D Ranganathan1, L Francis2
1Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.
Insights
Complement component 3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a kidney disease characterized by isolated C3 deposits. This review covers C3G pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Complement component 3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a distinct kidney disease entity.
- It includes dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulonephritis.
- Histologically, C3G shows isolated C3 deposits without immunoglobulins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of C3G.
- To outline the clinical features of C3G.
- To discuss diagnostic and treatment strategies for C3G.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of C3G.
- Analysis of pathophysiology.
- Summary of clinical presentations.
- Evaluation of diagnostic criteria.
- Review of therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- C3G arises from dysregulation of the alternate complement pathway.
- Genetic defects and autoantibodies are implicated in C3G.
- C3G can mimic common glomerulonephritides.
- Understanding pathophysiology aids diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusions:
- C3G is a distinct entity within glomerulonephritis.
- Dysregulated complement activation is central to C3G.
- Comprehensive review provides insights into management.
Abstract:
Complement component 3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a recently defined entity comprising of dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulonephritis. The key histological feature is the presence of isolated C3 deposits without immunoglobulins. Often masqueradng as some of the common glomerulonephritides this is a prototype disorder occurring from dysregulated alternate complement pathway with recently identified genetic defects and autoantibodies. We review the pathophysiology, clinical features, and diagnostic and treatment strategies.
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