Idiopathic IgA nephropathy presenting as malignant hypertension

Three cases are reported of idiopathic IgA nephropathy (Berger's disease) presenting as malignant hypertension, with no data suggesting the underlying glomerulopathy, which was uncovered only after renal biopsy was performed. Comments are made on the validity of the pathological diagnosis, the possible pathogenetic sequence of the association, and on the eventual risks and benefits derived from performing renal biopsy in such patients.