This term suggests inflammatory conditions of the glomerulus, but there are several types of GN and inflammatory changes are not always present. In many cases immune complexes damage the glomeruli. These are formed when antigens and antibodies combine either within the kidney or elsewhere in the body,and they circulate in the blood. When immune complexes lodge in the walls of the glomeruli they often cause an inflammatory response that impairs glomerular function.
Classification of GN is complex and based on a number of features: the cause,immunological characteristics and findings on microscopy. Microscopic distinction is based on:
- The extent of damage,ie,diffuse:affecting all glomeruli and focal:affecting some glomeruli.
- Appearance,ie,proliferative:increased number of cells in the glomeruli or membranous: thickening of the glomerular basement membrane.
TYPE OF GLOMERULONEPHRITES(GN)
1)Diffuse proliferative GN
Usually follows a transient infection and other microbes.
Presents as an acute nephritis,haematuria,proteinuria.
2)FOCAL PROLIFERATIVE GN.
Associated with other systemic conditions eg systemic lupus erythematous,infective endocarditis.
Presents as acute nephritis,haematuria or proteinuria.
