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IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)

Symptoms
Condition Types
Diagnosis Journey
Treatment Options

Bloody or foamy urine

Dark (tea colored) urine

Edema (swelling in hands, feet, legs, ankles, abdominal area, or face)

Fatigue and weakness

Flank pain (pain on either side of the back below the ribs)

High blood pressure

Explore the tests commonly used to evaluate and confirm a diagnosis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN).

  • Urinalysis: A basic urine test that checks for the presence of blood or protein, which may indicate potential issues with kidney function.
  • Urine Protein-Creatinine Ratio (uPCR): A urine test that measures the levels of protein and creatinine, a waste product. This test provides information about the total amount of different proteins in the urine, not just albumin.
  • Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): A blood test used to estimate how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the bloodstream.
  • Kidney biopsy: A procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. The results can help identify the cause of kidney problems and assess the risk of future kidney damage.

There is currently no cure for IgAN, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression.

  • Blood Pressure Medications: Medications like ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly used to help control blood pressure and reduce protein levels in the urine (proteinuria).
  • Corticosteroids: These medications or other immunosuppressants may be used to reduce inflammation in the kidneys.
  • Targeted Therapies: Budesonide (Tarpeyo) and sparsentan (Filspari) are FDA-approved targeted therapies for the treatment IgAN.
  • Kidney Transplant or Dialysis: For those whose kidneys stop working, a kidney transplant or dialysis may be an option that can restore kidney function and improve quality of life.
  • Tonsillectomy: In certain cases, especially in younger individuals, removing the tonsils may be considered. This is because the tonsils can be a source of excess IgA, the protein involved in IgA nephropathy.

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Ongoing Research

IgA nephropathy is a disease that requires more effective treatment options. In order to find these new treatments, further research is necessary.

Current Research Studies
  • There are over 60 IgAN research studies that are actively recruiting patients. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to find IgAN research studies near you.

Featured Study

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Resources

Find an online community of fellow patients, caregivers, and advocates below as
as well as some other general resources!

Community Groups
Advocacy Groups
Podcasts & Websites
Mental Health Resources
Research Articles
IgA Nephropathy
A supportive community dedicated to sharing information, resources, and encouragement for those living with IgAN.
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IgA nephropathy- Berger's Disease
A space for individuals with IgAN to connect, find support, and access reliable information about living with the condition.
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r/IgANephropathy
A community offering support and resources for people living with IgA Nephropathy, along with their friends and family.
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National Kidney Foundation
The National Kidney Foundation is leading the fight to save lives by preventing kidney disease, improving the patient experience, and making kidney care, dialysis, and transplants more fair and accessible for everyone.
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NephCure Kidney International
NephCure’s mission is to empower individuals living with rare, protein-spilling kidney diseases to take control of their health, while driving advancements in research, innovative treatments, and improved care.
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The IgA Nephropathy Foundation
The IgAN Foundation is dedicated to supporting individuals affected by IgA nephropathy through education, advocacy, and research. The foundation connects patients and families, raises awareness, and works to advance treatments and improve quality of life for those living with this rare kidney disease.
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IgAN Journey Podcast
IgAN Journey is the IgA Nephropathy Foundation’s podcast, featuring stories, expert insights, and practical tips to support and inspire those affected by IgAN.
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Patient Stories: IgAN
This page features inspiring stories from adult patients with IgA nephropathy, showcasing their journeys—diagnosis, treatment, daily challenges, and advocacy.
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Coping & Caring for Your Mental Health
The Coping & Caring for Your Mental Health website offers resources and support to help individuals with IgA nephropathy manage the emotional and psychological challenges of living with a chronic kidney condition.
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Mental Health Spotlight: How to Cope with IgA Nephropathy
Visit this site to explore helpful resources and strategies for managing life with IgAN, including tips for emotional well-being, lifestyle adjustments, and patient support.
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Treatment Advances in IgA Nephropathy
This article from MedCentral highlights the latest treatment advances in IgAN, including new medications and evolving approaches aimed at slowing disease progression and improving patient outcomes.
Learn More

Related Articles

Patient Stories
Investigator Profiles
Facing IgAN With a Strong Sense of Self: Judy Atkin
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