July 17, 2024 11:24 am IST
If left untreated for a long time, glomerular disease can lead to chronic kidney disease or infection.
The glomerulus is a tiny network of blood vessels, also known as the filtering unit of the kidney. Glomerular disease affects the glomerulus and disrupts the functioning of the organs. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Nikhil Bhasin, Consultant Nephrologist and Renal Transplant Physician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, explained the function of the glomerulus – “Our kidneys have about a million tiny filter units called nephrons. Each nephron has a glomerulus that acts like a sieve used in cooking. They filter out waste and excess fluids into the urine while retaining the proteins and blood products your body needs.”
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Glomerular Disease: Causes
Dr Nikhil Bhasin said, “Glomerular disease can occur spontaneously (affecting only the kidneys) or it can be caused by systemic diseases (diabetes mellitus), autoimmune diseases (SLE, vasculitis), infections (HIV, hepatitis B), cancer (myeloma) and medications (painkillers). Recently, several cases of glomerular disease have been reported due to the use of skin lightening creams.”
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Glomerular disease: symptoms
Most patients experience swelling in the legs and around the eyes, excessive foam in urine, high blood pressure and sometimes decreased urine output.
Glomerular Disease: Diagnosis
Glomerular disease is diagnosed based on the results of blood or urine tests. Other tests, including imaging tests and/or kidney biopsy, may be used to help diagnose the specific type of glomerular disease.
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Glomerular disease: treatment
Management of glomerular disorders involves treating the underlying causes (such as infections or autoimmune conditions). This also includes controlling blood pressure and controlling protein loss with urine. Water tablets are given to control swelling in the legs and ankles. Salt restriction in the diet is recommended.
“If glomerular disease is left untreated or poorly managed, it can lead to complications such as chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular complications, infections, and clotting. In severe cases, a kidney transplant may be required,” said Dr Nikhil Bhasin.
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