Hematuria--A Sign of IgA Nephropathy

Hematuria refers to the presence of red blood cells in urine. In normal case, there only a small amount of red blood cells in urine. Hematuria includes gross heamturia which can be seen by naked eyes and microscopic hematuria which is visible under a microscope.


Hematuria is a classic presentation of IgA Nephropathy which usually starts with a day or two of non-specific upper respiratory tract infection. The gross hematuria resolves after a few days, though microscopic hematuria may persist. These episodes occur on an irregular basis every few months and in most patients eventually subsides (although it can take many years. Then why is there blood in urine for people with IgA Nephropathy?


IgA Nephropathy is an immune-mediated disorder, in which the immuoglobulin A deposits in the mesangium. To remove these foreign materials, the body mounts an inflammation, thus impairing the mesangium in glomeruli. Thus, the red blood cells pass through the mesangium and finally end up in urine.

Apart from red blood cells in urine, the patients with IgA Nephropathy also experience the following symptoms.


Protein in urine


In a small portion of patients with IgA Nephropathy(20~30%), they have microscopic hematuria and proteinuria(less than 2 grams/day).

Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic Syndrome is related to a poor prognosis of IgA Nephropathy. In this disorder, more than 3.5 grams of protein loss in urine in 24 hours.


Renal Failure


It is either as a complication of frank hematuria or due to rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. However, if early intervention treatment is adopted, the patients will avert developing Renal Failure.

Apart from IgA Nephropathy, there are also many causes of hematuria. So when you notice red blood cells in your urine, you need not feel panic. You should go to see a doctor to figure out its specific causes.