Definition

Post-streptococcal GN is a disorder of the kidneys. It involves inflammation of the glomeruli after infection with certain strains of the streptococcus bacterium.

Alternative Names

Glomerulonephritis - post-streptococcal; Post-infectious glomerulonephritis

Causes

Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is now an uncommon form ofglomerulonephritis. It is the result of an infection, not of the kidneys, but of a remote site such as the skin or pharynx, with a specific type of Group A hemolytic streptococcus bacterium.

As a consequence of trapping immune complexes (formed from streptococcal antigen, antibodies, and complement) in the glomeruli of the kidneys, the glomeruli become inflamed, causing inefficient filtering and excreting function by the kidneys. Protein and blood may be present in the urine, and excess fluid commonly accumulates in the body. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is usually present.

Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis now occurs less frequently because infections which may make a person vulnerable to the disorder are commonly treated with antibiotics. The disorder may develop 1 to 2 weeks after an untreated throat infection, or 3 to 4 weeks after a skin infection. It may occur in people of any age, especially children 6 to 10 years old. Although skin and throat infections are not uncommon in children, post-infectious GN is a rare complication of these infections.

Risk factors include having a recent history of sore throat, strep throat, streptococcal skin infections (such as impetigo), and other streptococcal infections.

Review Date: 1/19/2004
Reviewed By: Irfan A. Agha, M.D., Department of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.