Question 1

What is IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

IgA Nephropathy, also known as Berger's disease, is a kidney disorder where immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies deposit in the kidneys, causing inflammation that impairs waste filtration. It is caused by abnormal IgA antibodies that accumulate in the glomeruli (kidney filters), triggering an immune response that damages kidney tissue. The IgA blood test is the most important test for monitoring this condition because it directly measures the IgA antibody levels that deposit in the kidneys.

Question 2

What causes IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

IgA Nephropathy is caused by abnormal immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies that deposit in the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units of your kidneys. When these IgA antibodies accumulate, they trigger inflammation that damages the delicate kidney structures responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from your blood. The exact reason why some people produce these abnormal IgA antibodies remains unclear, but genetic factors, infections, and immune system dysfunction all play a role in this process.

Question 3

What is the best test for IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

The IgA blood test is the most important test for monitoring IgA Nephropathy because it directly measures the levels of IgA antibodies circulating in your blood that deposit in the kidneys and cause inflammation. This test helps track disease activity and assess how your immune system is responding over time. The Immunoglobulins Panel, Serum is also essential as it measures all major immunoglobulins including IgA, giving a complete picture of your immune function and detecting elevated IgA levels that contribute to kidney damage. For more detailed analysis, the IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test uses specialized techniques to identify specific antibody patterns associated with the IgA deposits causing kidney inflammation.

Question 4

When should I get tested for IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice blood in your urine (especially during or after a cold or respiratory infection), persistent foamy urine indicating protein loss, swelling in your hands and feet, or high blood pressure that develops without clear cause. Testing is also important if you have a family history of IgA Nephropathy or kidney disease, as genetic factors increase your risk. Regular monitoring through blood tests helps catch kidney function changes early, allowing for timely treatment adjustments before significant kidney damage occurs.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

The most common symptom is blood in the urine (hematuria), which may appear as cola-colored or tea-colored urine, often occurring during or shortly after a respiratory infection. You might notice foamy urine from protein leakage, swelling in your hands, feet, or face from fluid retention, and high blood pressure. Some people experience flank pain in the lower back area near the kidneys. Many individuals have no obvious symptoms initially, and the condition is discovered through routine urine tests showing blood or protein.

Question 6

Who is at risk for IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

IgA Nephropathy most commonly affects men in their teens to late 30s, though it can occur at any age. People of Asian and Caucasian descent have higher risk compared to African Americans. Having a family history of IgA Nephropathy or kidney disease significantly increases your risk, suggesting a genetic component. People with chronic liver disease, celiac disease, or certain infections that trigger immune responses are also at elevated risk for developing this kidney condition.

Question 7

What happens if IgA Nephropathy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated IgA Nephropathy can progress to chronic kidney disease and eventually end-stage kidney failure requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Approximately 20-40% of people with IgA Nephropathy will develop kidney failure within 20 years of diagnosis. The ongoing inflammation damages more kidney tissue over time, reducing the kidneys' ability to filter waste and maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance. High blood pressure from kidney damage can worsen kidney function and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke, creating a dangerous cycle of deteriorating health.

Question 8

Can IgA Nephropathy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose IgA Nephropathy, but they play a crucial supporting role in monitoring and management. Kidney biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis, as it directly visualizes IgA deposits in kidney tissue. However, blood tests measuring IgA levels and other immunoglobulins help assess disease activity, track progression, and evaluate treatment effectiveness. Blood tests also measure kidney function through creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), providing essential information about how well your kidneys are working.

Question 9

How is IgA Nephropathy treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment focuses on controlling blood pressure with ACE inhibitors or ARBs, which also reduce protein loss in urine and slow kidney damage. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements may help reduce inflammation and protect kidney function. In cases with significant inflammation and protein loss, immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids may be prescribed to dampen the immune response. Lifestyle modifications including reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling cholesterol levels are essential for protecting remaining kidney function and preventing progression to kidney failure.

Question 10

How can I prevent IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

There is no proven way to prevent IgA Nephropathy since the exact cause remains unclear, but you can reduce your risk of progression and complications. Managing blood pressure through diet, exercise, and medication is crucial for protecting kidney function. Limiting salt and protein intake reduces stress on your kidneys. Promptly treating infections, especially respiratory and urinary tract infections, prevents triggers that can worsen the condition. Avoiding nephrotoxic substances like NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) and maintaining regular follow-up with blood and urine testing helps catch changes early.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with IgA Nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements have shown promise in reducing inflammation and protecting kidney function in IgA Nephropathy patients. Following a kidney-friendly diet low in sodium, phosphorus, and protein helps reduce the workload on damaged kidneys. Staying well-hydrated supports kidney function, though fluid intake may need adjustment based on your kidney function level. Managing stress through meditation, yoga, or regular exercise may help modulate immune system activity. However, these natural approaches should complement, not replace, medical treatment, and you should always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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IgA Nephropathy Blood Test

What is IgA Nephropathy?

What causes IgA Nephropathy?

What is the best test for IgA Nephropathy?

When should I get tested for IgA Nephropathy?

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