Berger’s Disease (IgA Nephropathy)

Berger’s disease, clinically referred to as IgA nephropathy, is a specific type of kidney (renal) disease characterized by an antibody (immunoglobulin IgA) build-up in the kidneys. Too much of this antibody reduces the kidneys’ ability to filter wastes in the blood and can cause kidney damage (irreversible scarring) over time. Symptoms include repeated episodes of cola- or tea-colored urine (or blood in the urine), back pain on the sides and below the ribs, swelling in the hands and feet, and high blood pressure. It is estimated that 20 to 40% of adults that have Berger’s Disease for at least 10 to 20 years develop end-stage kidney disease which requires dialysis or a possible kidney transplant.