Membranous Glomerulonephropathy
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Introduction
Membranous Glomerulonephropathy is a chronic disease characterized by subepithelial deposition of immune complexes and basement membrane thickening. It accounts for 40% of cases of adult nephrotic syndrome and is more common in males.
The Case of...
a simple case introducing clincial presentation and calling for a differential diagnosis to get students thinking.
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes are idiopathic in 85% of cases.
Secondary causes include:
- infections: Treponema pallidum, Plasmodium, hepatitis B virus
- tumours: melanoma, carcinoma of the bronchus, or lymphoma
- drugs: penicillamine, heroid, mercury, gold
- systemic illnesses: SLE
Pathophysiology
Histologically, immunoglobulin deposition leads to widespread basement membrane thickening. Over time, mesangial matrix leads to glomerular hyalinization and nehron atrophy.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms include those of nephrotic syndrome.
Investigations
- lab investigations
- diagnostic imaging
Lab Investigations
Diagnostic Imaging
Differential Diagnosis
Treatments
Treatments targeting the immune response include corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, and cyclosporin.
Treatment of the underlying condition in secondary disease can result in remission.
Consequences and Course
Resources and References
Topic Development
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