Membranous Glomerulonephritis

Membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN) is a specific type of glomerulonephritis, which is a group of kidney disorders involving inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units in the kidneys. In MGN, the glomerular basement membrane thickens and becomes more permeable, leading to proteinuria and impaired kidney function. MGN is known by other names, including extramembranous glomerulonephritis, membranous nephropathy, and nephritis. MGN is very rare. It’s most commonly diagnosed in people over age 40.

MGN can develop as a primary kidney disease, meaning it’s not caused by another condition.

However, it can also develop as a result of other health conditions, like high toxic exposition to mercury, or some certain medications, including gold, penicillamine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, infections like malaria, hepatitis B, hepatitis C or syphilis, certain types of cancers (melanoma), autoimmune disorder such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Graves’ disease as well kidney or bone marrow transplantion.

1. Physical Examination:

The doctor will assess the patient's overall health, check for signs of edema, and measure blood pressure, body weight and body high.

2. Urine Tests:

A urine sample is collected to check for proteinuria and hematuria.

3. Blood Tests:

Blood tests are conducted to measure serum albumin, creatinine, and other parameters to evaluate kidney function. Some additional tests help to find the cause of the condition. These tests could include: an antinuclear antibodies test,  an antidouble-strand DNA test, a test for hepatitis B, a test for hepatitis C,  a test for malaria, a test for syphilis,  a test for complement levels as well a cryoglobulin test.

4. Kidney Biopsy:

A small piece of kidney tissue is obtained through a biopsy and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the histoplatological changes.

The treatment of membranous glomerulonephritis is aimed at managing symptoms, preserving kidney function, and preventing complications. The approach may include: