Symptomatology and General Principles of Treatment of Acute Glomerulonephritis

This article provides a comprehensive overview of acute glomerulonephritis (AGN), an inflammatory disease of the renal glomeruli that can cause hematuria, edema, hypertension, oliguria, and reduced glomerular filtration rate. It focuses on the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, complications, treatment, prognosis, and prevention of the disease. The article particularly discusses acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, which may develop after a streptococcal throat or skin infection. It explains the immune-mediated mechanisms responsible for glomerular injury and describes important clinical findings, including dark or cola-colored urine, facial puffiness, decreased urine output, and elevated blood pressure. The diagnostic section covers urinalysis, renal function tests, serum complement levels, antistreptococcal antibodies, imaging investigations, and indications for renal biopsy. The treatment section emphasizes supportive management, sodium and fluid restriction, diuretics, blood pressure control, treatment of active infection, and management of severe complications. It also discusses indications for dialysis and the importance of regular follow-up. The article concludes that the prognosis is generally excellent in children, although adults and patients with severe disease may experience complications or persistent renal impairment. Early recognition, appropriate treatment, and continued monitoring are essential for achieving good outcomes.