Glomerulonephritis Blood Test

What is Glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within the kidneys that remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. It is caused by immune system activation that triggers complement proteins like C1q and C4c to attack kidney tissues, leading to protein leakage and kidney damage. The Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects protein leakage through damaged glomerular filters.

RECOMMENDED TEST Microalbumin, Random Urine with Creatinine
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What causes glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis is caused by immune system activation that triggers an inflammatory attack on the kidney's filtering units. Bacterial infections like streptococcal bacteria, viral infections such as hepatitis B and C, autoimmune diseases like lupus, and certain medications can all trigger this immune response. When the immune system activates complement proteins including C1q and C4c, these proteins attack the glomeruli, causing inflammation and damage that prevents the kidneys from properly filtering waste and leads to protein leakage into the urine.

What is the best test for glomerulonephritis?

The Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine test is the most important test for glomerulonephritis because it directly measures the albumin-to-creatinine ratio, detecting protein leakage through damaged glomerular filters. This test reveals how much kidney damage has occurred and helps track disease progression. Complement Component C4c and Complement Component C1q blood tests are also essential because they measure the immune proteins involved in the inflammatory attack on your kidneys. Low C4c levels indicate active complement consumption during inflammation, while elevated C1q levels show immune system involvement in kidney tissue damage. Together, these tests provide a complete picture of both kidney function and the underlying inflammatory process.

When should I get tested for glomerulonephritis?

You should get tested if you notice blood in your urine making it look pink, red, or cola-colored, experience persistent foamy urine that indicates excess protein, develop swelling in your face, hands, feet, or abdomen, or have high blood pressure that is difficult to control. Testing is also important if you recently had a strep throat or skin infection, have an autoimmune condition like lupus, or experience decreased urination despite normal fluid intake. Early detection through blood and urine testing helps prevent permanent kidney damage and allows for prompt treatment to protect your kidney function.

What are the symptoms of glomerulonephritis?
Symptoms of glomerulonephritis include pink, red, or cola-colored urine from blood in the urine, foamy or bubbly urine from excess protein, swelling in the face especially around the eyes upon waking, and swelling in the hands, feet, and abdomen. You might experience high blood pressure, fatigue and weakness, decreased urine output, shortness of breath from fluid retention, and abdominal or flank pain. Some people with chronic glomerulonephritis have no noticeable symptoms initially and discover the condition only through routine blood work or urine tests that show abnormal kidney function.
Who is at risk for glomerulonephritis?
People who have recently had bacterial infections particularly streptococcal throat or skin infections are at higher risk for developing post-infectious glomerulonephritis. Those with autoimmune diseases like lupus, Goodpasture syndrome, or vasculitis face increased risk due to the immune system attacking kidney tissues. People with viral infections including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV have elevated risk. Family history of kidney disease, certain medications including high-dose antibiotics and NSAIDs, and conditions causing chronic inflammation all increase susceptibility to glomerulonephritis.
What happens if glomerulonephritis is left untreated?
Untreated glomerulonephritis can lead to chronic kidney disease where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste from the blood. This can progress to kidney failure requiring dialysis or kidney transplant to sustain life. High blood pressure becomes severe and difficult to control, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Protein loss through damaged kidneys can cause nephrotic syndrome with severe swelling throughout the body and increased risk of blood clots and infections. Acute kidney failure can occur suddenly in severe cases, causing dangerous buildup of waste products and fluids that require emergency medical treatment.
Can glomerulonephritis be diagnosed with a blood test?
Yes, glomerulonephritis can be diagnosed using a combination of blood and urine tests that reveal kidney damage and immune system activity. The Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine test detects protein leakage indicating glomerular damage, while blood tests measuring Complement Component C4c and C1q reveal the immune system inflammation attacking the kidneys. Blood tests also check creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels to assess kidney function, along with complete blood counts to detect anemia or signs of infection. While these tests are highly effective for diagnosis, your doctor may also recommend a kidney biopsy in certain cases to determine the specific type of glomerulonephritis and guide treatment decisions.
How is glomerulonephritis treated?
Treatment for glomerulonephritis depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics if a bacterial infection triggered the condition, immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids or cyclophosphamide to reduce immune system attack on the kidneys, and blood pressure medications including ACE inhibitors or ARBs to protect kidney function. Diuretics help reduce swelling by removing excess fluid, while dietary changes including reduced salt and protein intake ease the workload on damaged kidneys. Treatment for underlying conditions like lupus or hepatitis is essential to stop ongoing kidney damage. In severe cases, plasmapheresis filters harmful antibodies from the blood, and dialysis may be necessary if kidney function becomes severely impaired.
How can I prevent glomerulonephritis?
You can reduce your risk of glomerulonephritis by treating bacterial infections promptly, especially strep throat and skin infections, with appropriate antibiotics to prevent post-infectious kidney inflammation. Managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and autoimmune diseases with proper medication and monitoring protects kidney health. Practicing good hygiene including regular handwashing prevents infections that can trigger kidney inflammation. Avoiding excessive use of NSAIDs and other medications that stress the kidneys, getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet all support kidney function and reduce inflammation risk.
What can I do at home for glomerulonephritis?
At home, you can support kidney health by reducing salt intake to less than 2,300 mg per day to control blood pressure and reduce swelling. Stay well-hydrated unless your doctor advises fluid restriction, and limit protein intake as recommended to reduce kidney workload. Monitor your blood pressure daily and keep a log to share with your healthcare provider. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen that can further damage kidneys and limit alcohol consumption. Getting adequate rest helps your body heal, while gentle exercise as tolerated supports overall health. Track your urine output and appearance, reporting any changes like increased blood or foaming to your doctor immediately.
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Microalbumin, Random Urine with Creatinine
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