Glomerulonephritis describes a group of diseases which injure the filters, called glomeruli, in the kidney. Vasculitis includes diseases in which there is inflammation of blood vessels some of which can result in kidney disease.
A wide range of kidney and health problems can result and may include blood in the urine called ‘haematuria’ which is often invisible, protein in the urine called ‘proteinuria’, high blood pressure and loss of kidney function.
Diagnosis is made by a combination of blood and urine tests often together with a kidney biopsy.
A few of these conditions will improve by themselves and some may simply require monitoring from time to time. Some patients need treatment to protect kidney function which may include blood pressure lowering treatment, corticosteroid therapy and cytotoxic drugs which suppress the immune system. Both kidney function and treatment need to be carefully monitored. Some patients require inpatient treatment which can include dialysis and plasmapheresis.
What you can expect
You will be asked to submit a urine sample for testing and your weight, height and blood pressure will be recorded by the clinic nurse before your consultation with the doctor. Afterwards you may have blood tests.
Please bring a list of your medicines with you. A detailed letter will be sent to your GP and you will be asked if you would like a copy for your records.
