WHAT IS BERGER’S DISEASE?

IGA NEPHROPATHY (IGAN), also known as ‘Berger’s disease’ is a condition of the kidney and the immune system. Aggressive Berger’s Disease (a rarer form of the illness) can attack other major organs, such as the liver, skin and heart.

IGA is a protein, called an antibody, that helps the body fight infections. IgA nephropathy occurs when too much of this protein is deposited in the kidneys. IgA builds up inside the small blood vessels of the kidney. Structures in the kidney called glomeruli become inflamed and damaged.

IGA nephropathy can occur in people of all ages, but it most often affects males in their teens to late 30s. There may be no symptoms for many years but they include: bloody urine that starts during or soon after a respiratory infection; repeated episodes of dark or bloody urine; swelling of the hands and feet; symptoms of chronic kidney disease.

The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent, or delay, chronic renal failure. Salt and fluids may be restricted to control swelling. A low-tomoderate protein diet may be recommended in some cases.

Eventually, many people must be treated for chronic kidney disease and may need dialysis.