Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is a condition where the small structures inside the kidneys, known as glomeruli, become inflamed.

There are a number of different types of glomerulonephritis.

Glomeruli

There are two kidneys in the body. These organs have a very important function. They remove waste products from the blood, which are then passed out of the body in urine.

In each kidney, there are about one million tiny filters called glomeruli. Glomerulonephritis occurs when the glomeruli become inflamed (swollen).

If the kidneys become inflamed, they are unable to work properly. Salt and excess fluid can build up, leading to complications, such as high blood pressure (hypertension). In some cases, kidney disease or kidney failure can occur.

Types of glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is the name given to a range of conditions that affect the kidneys. There are a number of different types of glomerulonephritis. However, the condition can be broadly categorised into two main types: primary glomerulonephritis and secondary glomerulonephritis: 

• Primary glomerulonephritis: where the condition develops on its own, and is not related to another pre-existing condition.
• Secondary glomerulonephritis: where the condition develops as a result of another, pre-existing condition such as Hodgkin’s disease, or Goodpasture’s syndrome (an autoimmune disorder that affects the lungs and kidneys).

Glomerulonephritis can vary in severity. It can be short-lived (acute) and need minimal treatment or be more serious and last for a long time (chronic).

Glomerulonephritis often follows an infection, such as a throat infection (pharyngitis). As well as infection, other factors, such as the long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can also cause glomerulonephritis and swelling in the kidneys.

Who is affected by glomerulonephritis?

Some types of glomerulonephritis are more common in children and young people. Overall, the condition tends to affect men more than women.