What Is IgA Nephropathy (Berger’s Disease)?

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy, sometimes called Berger’s disease, happens when IgA protein builds up in your kidneys. IgA is a protein that your immune system makes to protect you from foreign substances like viruses and bacteria. IgA protein buildup causes inflammation that damages the glomeruli, which are tiny filters inside the kidneys. Your kidneys play a vital role in your overall health, continuously filtering your blood by removing waste and toxins.

Like most kidney diseases, IgA nephropathy may have no symptoms in early stages. This can last for years. The most common first symptom is hematuria, or blood in the urine, which can be a sign of damaged glomeruli. The blood may be visible in urine, turning it pink or the color of tea, or it may be detectable only with medical testing.

Another possible sign of IgA nephropathy is albuminuria, or increased albumin in the urine. Albumin is a protein found in blood. Urine that is foamy may be a sign of albuminuria, as well as swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, or face. Albuminuria can also be confirmed with medical testing.

IgA nephropathy is diagnosed through a kidney biopsy. This procedure can be done using local anesthesia and light sedation. A doctor will use a needle to remove a small portion of the kidney then examine it. Prior to a biopsy, a doctor may perform urine and blood tests to look for signs of chronic kidney disease (CKD), such as blood in the urine or a low glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

Although there is currently no cure for IgA nephropathy, treatment focuses on slowing disease progression while trying to prevent complications. A nephrologist may prescribe medications that will control blood pressure, remove extra fluid, control your immune system, and/or lower cholesterol levels.

Your doctor may also provide dietary recommendations based on your specific disease progression

Between 20 and 40 percent of people with IgA nephropathy will develop end stage kidney disease (ESRD). It’s not fully understood who will progress to ESRD but managing symptoms of IgA nephropathy may help slow its progression. Those who develop ESRD will need dialysis or a kidney transplant.

People with kidney disease are capable of thriving with IgA nephropathy. While it may lead to ESRD, proper diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression and help you live well. If you have symptoms of IgA nephropathy, such as swelling, hematuria, or albuminuria, reach out to your healthcare provider to begin the diagnosis process today.