Definition:
Post-streptococcal GN is a disorder of the kidneys that occurs after infection with certain strains of Streptococcus bacteria.
Alternative Names:
Glomerulonephritis - post-streptococcal; Post-infectious glomerulonephritis
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Post-streptococcal GN is a form of glomerulonephritis. It is the result of an infection, not of the kidneys, but of a completely different area, such as the skin or throat, with a specific type of Group A hemolytic streptococcus bacteria. The infection causes the tiny blood vessels called glomeruli in the kidneys to become inflamed, making the kidneys less able to filter and remove wastes. Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is uncommon these days because infections that can lead to the disorder are commonly treated with antibiotics. The disorder may develop 1 - 2 weeks after an untreated throat infection, or 3 - 4 weeks after a skin infection. It may occur in people of any age, but most often occurs in children ages 6 - 10. Although skin and throat infections are not uncommon in children, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is a rare complication of these infections. Risk factors include: Streptococcal skin infections (such as impetigo)
References:
Brenner BM. Brenner and Rector's The Kidney. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2003.
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