What is IgA Nephropathy?

IgA nephropathy, also known as Berger’s disease, is a chronic kidney disorder caused by the buildup of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the kidneys. This buildup leads to inflammation, which can damage the kidney’s ability to filter waste effectively.

Over time, IgA nephropathy can lead to serious complications, including chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure. While the exact cause of this condition remains unclear, researchers have found that IgA nephropathy is associated with various health conditions, either as a cause or a result of the disease.

This article explores the health conditions linked to IgA nephropathy, shedding light on their impact and potential complications.

Conditions Associated with IgA Nephropathy

1. Liver Disease

Liver disease is one of the most common conditions linked to secondary IgA nephropathy. The liver plays a crucial role in clearing IgA complexes from the body. When liver function is impaired, IgA accumulates, increasing the risk of kidney damage.

Liver Conditions Associated with IgA Nephropathy:

• Cirrhosis – Scarring of the liver tissue, which reduces its ability to process IgA effectively.
• Autoimmune Hepatitis – An immune system attack on liver cells, contributing to IgA buildup.
• Wilson’s Disease – A genetic disorder that leads to excessive copper accumulation in the liver, affecting kidney function.
• Hemochromatosis – A condition where iron overload damages various organs, including the liver and kidneys.

2. Celiac Disease

There is a strong link between IgA nephropathy and celiac disease, a disorder in which gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine.

• People with celiac disease have a threefold increased risk of developing IgA nephropathy.
• One-third of individuals with celiac disease have IgA deposits in their kidneys without noticeable symptoms.
• Those with both conditions are at a higher risk of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).

3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, has been linked to IgA nephropathy.

• Studies show that 24% of IBD patients have IgA nephropathy, compared to just 8% of the general population.
• People with both IBD and IgA nephropathy are more likely to progress to kidney failure.
• IBD-related inflammation may trigger excess IgA production, worsening kidney damage.

4. Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic skin disorder, has been identified as a risk factor for IgA nephropathy.

• Moderate to severe psoriasis increases the risk of developing IgA nephropathy.
• Some research suggests a shared immune system dysfunction between these conditions.
• Streptococcal infections can trigger both psoriasis and IgA nephropathy, indicating a possible link.

5. Infections

Certain bacterial and viral infections have been associated with IgA nephropathy. These infections can stimulate an abnormal immune response that affects the kidneys.

Common Infections Linked to IgA Nephropathy:

• Upper respiratory tract infections – Can cause mucosal injury, triggering abnormal IgA production.
• Hepatitis B and C – Viral infections that have been shown to contribute to kidney inflammation.
• HIV – People with HIV are at higher risk of developing IgA nephropathy.
• COVID-19 – Recent research suggests COVID-19 infections may trigger IgA nephropathy in some cases.

6. Lupus

Lupus and IgA nephropathy can occur simultaneously, though their exact relationship remains unclear.

• Lupus nephritis (a kidney-related complication of lupus) and IgA nephropathy may present similar symptoms.
• Research from 2023 indicates that the two conditions may coexist without directly influencing each other.
• Further studies are needed to determine whether lupus contributes to IgA nephropathy or vice versa.

Complications of IgA Nephropathy

IgA nephropathy not only coexists with various conditions but can also lead to serious complications. Below are some of the most common complications resulting from this kidney disorder.

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

• Damaged kidneys struggle to regulate blood pressure, leading to hypertension.
• High blood pressure, in turn, worsens kidney damage, creating a vicious cycle.
• Proper blood pressure management is essential to slowing disease progression.

2. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

• IgA nephropathy is a leading cause of CKD.
• People with additional conditions like hypertension or diabetes are at an even greater risk.
• CKD increases the likelihood of heart disease and stroke.

3. Cardiovascular Disease

• Protein and blood leakage into the urine can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including:
  • Heart attack
  • Heart failure
  • Stroke

4. Kidney Failure

• 1 in 5 people with IgA nephropathy develop kidney failure within 10 years of diagnosis.
• Kidney failure can be acute (temporary) or chronic (permanent), requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Summary Table: Conditions and Their Link to IgA Nephropathy

Takeaway

IgA nephropathy is a serious autoimmune kidney disorder associated with multiple health conditions. Some conditions may contribute to the development of IgA nephropathy, while others arise as a result of kidney damage.

Early diagnosis and management are essential to slowing disease progression and preventing complications such as hypertension, kidney failure, and cardiovascular disease.

If you or a loved one has IgA nephropathy, consult a healthcare provider to monitor your kidney health and address any associated conditions effectively.