Membranoproliferative GN I

Alternative names:

glomerulonephritis - membranoproliferative (type 1); lobular GN; membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type 1; mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis (type 1); MPGN1

Symptoms:

• blood in the urine
• dark urine, smoke, cola, or tea colored
• cloudy urine
• decrease in urine volume
• swelling of any part of the body
• changes in mental status, decreased alertness and concentration

Signs and tests:

The results of a physical examination vary depending on the symptoms. Swelling may be present along with signs of fluid overload, such as abnormal sounds when listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope. The blood pressure is often elevated.

These tests help confirm the diagnosis:

• abnormal urinalysis:
  • white blood cells
  • red blood cells
  • urine protein
  • other abnormalities in the urine

• possible increase in BUN and creatinine, indicating decreased kidney function.
• possible decrease in serum complement levels indicating immune system involvement.
• possible presence of serum complement C3 nephritic factor

A kidney biopsy confirms the diagnosis of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type 1.