“Glomerulonephritis is known to be an immune reaction mediated by antigen-antibody complexes. » The kidneys have small filters called glomeruli that filter leftover fluid, electrolytes, and waste products from the bloodstream into the patient's urine. About a liter of blood passes through the glomeruli every minute. When these filters become inflamed, it is called glomerulonephritis. This disease can be chronic or occur suddenly, as in acute. Glomerulonephritis can appear on its own, which would be considered primary glomerulonephritis. If another disease is causing the inflammation, it is called secondary glomerulonephritis. Acute glomerulonephritis appears suddenly and tissue damage progresses rapidly and chronic glomerulonephritis occurs gradually and the damage is usually massive over months to years. There are many causes that can cause chronic glomerulonephritis. When a patient recovers from strep throat, the antibodies that fought off the infection can settle into the glomeruli, causing inflammation. This inflammation is called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis and is more common in children than adults. HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are also known infections that tend to trigger inflammation of the glomeruli. Immune diseases such as lupus, Goodpasture syndrome or IgA nephropathy are another cause of glomerulonephritis. Goodpasture syndrome is a lung disease that causes bleeding in the lungs and is a very rare condition. When deposits of immunoglobulin A are detected in the glomeruli, it is called IgA nephropathy. If a patient has had multiple sessions with acute glomerulonephritis, this may lead to chronic glomerulonephritis. Sometimes people with chronic glomerulonephritis... middle of paper ... decrease their sodium intake so their body doesn't retain as much water. A reduction in potassium and protein would decrease the accumulation of waste in the blood. The patient should try to maintain a healthy weight by eating healthily and exercising. If the patient is suffering from diabetes, he should really try to keep his sugar level balanced and under control. If a patient is suffering from chronic glomerulonephritis, it would be wise to have a strong support group, as the disease can put a strain on your emotions. In the United States, approximately 20 million people suffer from chronic kidney disease. Works Cited Choi M, EJ (2002). Mycophenolate mofetil treatment for primary glomerular diseases. Kidney International, 1098-1114. Keith, N., Wagener, H., & Barker, N. (1939). Some different types of essential hypertension: their evolution and prognosis. Am.JMSc, 332-343.