IGA Nephropathy-A hypersensitivity reaction after COVID-19: A case study

Abstract

IgA nephropathy is a renal disease characterized by the presence of immunoglobulin A (IgA) dominant or co-dominant immune deposits in the glomeruli. This causes a type of swelling and inflammation on filtering part of the kidney (glomerulus) and make it harder for filtration of waste from the blood. The pathology may vary widely, from normal histology to severe glomerulonephritis. The cause of IgA nephropathy is unknown but the genetic and environmental factors may play a role. In some people, the first signs or symptoms of the disease may become noticeable after severe respiratory infections like COVID-19, Hemophilus parainfluenza etc. Current research suggests the role of IgA-mediated immune response, evidenced by early seroconversion to IgA in COVID-19 patients and the role of IgA in immune hyperactivation as the predominant mediator of the disease process [1]. This is a case of 25 year old male presenting with reddish frothy foamy urine in morning hours and disappears when day advances. He had a history of COVID-19 infection 2 years back. Renal biopsy report shows IgA Nephropathy with mesangial hypercellularity, segmental sclerosis, endocapillary proliferation, crescent mild global glomerulosclerosis, unremarkable vessels.