Final answer:
IgA Nephropathy is caused by immunoglobulin A deposits in the kidneys, leading to glomerulonephritis. It is the most prevalent form of primary glomerulonephritis and is more common in Asian and Caucasian male populations. The exact cause is unclear but may involve genetic and environmental factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Etiology and Epidemiology of IgA Nephropathy
IgA Nephropathy, also known as Berger’s disease, is a form of glomerulonephritis caused by deposits of the immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the glomeruli within the kidney. This condition can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is a significant cause of kidney failure worldwide. The etiology of IgA nephropathy is not completely understood, but it may be related to a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system dysfunction, and environmental factors. Some individuals develop this condition following an acute upper respiratory or gastrointestinal infection, suggesting a relationship between mucosal immunity and glomerular deposition of IgA.
Regarding epidemiology, IgA nephropathy is the most common form of primary glomerulonephritis globally. It has a variable prevalence across different populations, being more common in Asian and Caucasian populations. The disorder affects males more frequently than females and often first presents during the second and third decades of life. Although it may be asymptomatic at first, patients can eventually present with proteinuria, hematuria, and hypertension.
It's important to recognize that IgA nephropathy can be part of a spectrum of diseases including selective IgA deficiency, which is a separate but related condition where individuals cannot produce secretory IgA, leading to an increased susceptibility to lung and gastrointestinal infections.