Saturday, December 25, 2010

Nephritis

Nephritis
Nephritis refers to inflammation of one or both kidneys. It can be caused by infection, but is most commonly caused by autoimmune disorders that affect the major organs. For example, those with lupus are at a much higher risk for developing nephritis. In rare cases nephritis can be genetically inherited, though it may not present in childhood.
Nephritis is a serious medical condition which is the ninth highest cause of human death. As the kidneys inflame, they begin to excrete needed protein from the body into the urine stream. This condition is called proteinuria. Loss of necessary protein due to nephritis can result in several life-threatening symptoms. Most dangerous in cases of nephritis is the loss of protein that keeps blood from clotting. This can result in blood clots causing sudden stroke.
Lupus Nephritis
• The condition originates with the accumulation of protein-laden autoantibodies within the capillaries of the kidneys directly affecting urine composition and blood pressure. Treatment for individuals with lupus nephritis involves restoring proper kidney function through the use of prescription medications.
• Though some who did not have lupus had the weaker gene, they had not developed lupus nephritis. This finding suggests that genetics are only a partial factor in determining who will get lupus.
Nephritis Syndrome
• Alport syndrome, also called hereditary nephritis, is a congenital disorder characterized by glomerulonephritis, or inflammation of the glomeruli, the small blood vessels in the kidneys.
• Organ damage may be soon to follow. Symptoms of DRESS syndrome involving internal organs can include hepatitis, nephritis, myocarditis, or pneumonitis, which can be life threatening.
Nephritis Disease
• Complications associated with lupus nephritis may include acute or chronic kidney failure and end-stage kidney disease. Prognosis associated with lupus nephritis is dependent on the extent of the condition and the overall health of the individual.
• Interstitial nephritis, also called tubulo-interstitial nephritis, is a kidney disease. It affects the interstitial fluid of the kidneys that surrounds the tubules of the organ.
Chronic Nephritis
• Painful physical symptoms, such as abdominal discomfort and muscle aches, can also occur. Several factors can increase one's risk of developing chronic nephritis. People with a family history of diabetes or cancer are known to be at risk.
• Many times people suffering from a kidney disease will become confused or drowsy, as the toxins can cause exhaustion and fatigue. Interstitial nephritis can be acute or chronic; either a short-term one-time occurrence or a long-lasting disorder that gradually gets worse over time
Nephritis Kidney
• These collect urine in the kidneys, acting like a filter. When the kidneys contract interstitial nephritis, these tubules become inflamed. When this happens the function is severely limited, resulting in impaired kidneys.
• The goal of any treatment regimen for lupus nephritis involves restoring proper kidney function. Prescription medications may be administered to alleviate inflammation and suppress the immune system.
Nephritis Symptoms
• Loss of necessary protein due to nephritis can result in several life-threatening symptoms. Most dangerous in cases of nephritis is the loss of protein that keeps blood from clotting.
• When the kidneys can no long function properly, the body becomes flooded with wastes and toxins that should have been removed. The most common symptom of interstitial nephritis is decreased urine output. As it progresses, worse symptoms can become prevalent.

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