Pathology: Depositionof IgA antibodies within the kidney leading to an immune reaction.
Aetiology: Unknownaetiology
Symptoms: Oliguria,peripheral oedema, Henoch-Schonlein purpura (non-blanching purpuric rash overlegs and buttocks, abdominal pains can also be present)
Signs: Hypertension,microscopic haematuria, proteinuria are the commonest findings
Investigations: Bloods: Serum IgA, U&E – to monitorrenal function
MSU: Urine dipstick and protein: creatinine ratio,
Renal Biopsy: Definitive investigation showing IgA and C3deposits in renal
mesangium
Treatment: Medical: Steroids, Immunosuppressants, ACEinhibitors
Complications: Hypertensionand end stage renal failure
Prognosis: Agradual deterioration in renal function over many years with about a third developingend stage renal failure
