Pattern of glomerulonephritis in the Kashmir valley

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pathology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Glomerulonephritis (GN) is a significant global cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
• Prevalence and incidence of GN vary worldwide, necessitating regional studies.
• Understanding the pattern of GN is crucial for effective management and prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiological and histopathological patterns of glomerulonephritis in the Kashmir valley.
• To identify the most common types of primary and secondary GN in the region.
• To provide data for improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for glomerular diseases.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Kashmir.
• Histopathological data from 336 renal biopsies over three years were analyzed.
• Demographic, clinical, investigative, and histopathological findings were recorded for 298 cases of glomerular disease.

Main Results:

• Proteinuria and edema were the most common clinical presentations.
• Primary GN accounted for 81% of cases, with IgA nephropathy being the most frequent (42%).
• Secondary GN occurred in 16% of cases, with lupus nephritis being the most common type.

Conclusions:

• Primary GN, particularly IgA nephropathy, is the predominant glomerular disease in Kashmir, often presenting as renal failure.
• Lupus nephritis is the most common secondary GN, consistent with global and Indian trends.
• Findings support the need for a regional diagnostic and research framework for glomerular diseases.