Significance of At-Home Urinalysis for Berger’s Disease

What is Berger’s Disease?

Berger’s disease, also known as IgA nephropathy, is a condition in which you develop deposits of antibodies called immunoglobulin A (IgA) in your kidneys. These clumps of antibodies damage the tiny blood vessels in your kidneys that are critical for filtering waste from the blood. When the vessels can’t function properly, your kidneys don’t work as well, and they begin to leak blood and protein into your urine [1].

This condition often develops during the teenage years to the early 30s and is more common in men than in women. The causes of Berger’s disease vary,  but certain factors can increase the risk of developing it, including [1]:

• Family history of Berger’s disease
• Celiac disease
• Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• HIV infections
• Asian or European ancestry

Symptoms of Berger’s Disease

Berger’s disease may not cause any significant symptoms. Some people are diagnosed after a routine urine test, which shows the presence of blood and/or protein. Common signs of Berger’s disease include [2]:

• Noticeable blood in urine
• Foamy urine caused by the presence of protein
• Swelling in the legs, feet, ankles, or other parts of your body

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These symptoms are not definitive signs of Berger’s disease. They can indicate a number of health issues, including urinary tract infections or other types of kidney disease. If you notice new or worsening symptoms of kidney problems, you should see your doctor for a complete evaluation and diagnosis. 

Complications of Berger’s Disease

Without proper management, Berger’s disease can lead to health complications, such as [3]:

• High blood pressure: The damage caused by Berger's disease can increase blood pressure, which can further damage the kidneys.
• High cholesterol: Berger’s disease can also increase cholesterol levels.
• Kidney failure: The disease can lead to acute or chronic kidney failure. People experiencing kidney failure will need dialysis or a kidney transplant.

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