Richard Lafayette, MD, FACP, Director of the Stanford Glomerular Disease Center, and Rheumatologist at Stanford Health Care, describes the current standard of care for immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy.
IgA nephropathy (Berger’s disease) is a rare kidney disease characterized by the accumulation of IgA deposits in the kidneys. The buildup of IgA deposits inflames and damages the glomeruli, causing hematuria and proteinuria. This damage may lead to scarring of the nephrons which progresses slowly over many years. Eventually, the disorder can lead to end-stage kidney disease.
As Dr. Lafayette states, management involves a comprehensive approach that includes various strategies to slow down the progression of the disease, prevent complications, and maintain kidney function. Some key strategies include blood pressure control, proteinuria management, immunosuppressive therapy, and diet/lifestyle choices.
To learn more about IgA nephropathy and other rare kidney diseases, visit checkrare.com/diseases/kidney
