Postinfectious Glomerulonephropathy

General Principles

  • Postinfectious glomerulonephropathy classically presents as nephritic syndrome, with hematuria, hypertension, edema, and renal insufficiency. Proteinuria may be present and is usually in the subnephrotic range.
  • This entity is classically associated with streptococcal infection, which typically affects children under the age of 10, after a latent period of 2–4 weeks from onset of pharyngitis or skin infection. However, bacterial endocarditis, visceral abscesses, and ventriculoperitoneal shunt infections can also lead to this immune complex–mediated disease.
  • Low complement levels are usually seen. ASO titers may be elevated serially, as may anti-DNase B antibodies in streptococcal-associated disease.

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