Anti-Glomerular Basement Antibody Disease

Anti-Glomerular Basement Antibody Disease

Article
Healthy Lungs
Kidney & Bladder Health
+3
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHMar 25, 2018

The topic Anti-Glomerular Basement Antibody Disease you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Goodpasture Syndrome.

Quick Summary:

  • Goodpasture Syndrome (GPS) is an uncommon autoimmune disorder affecting the kidneys and lungs. The antibodies generated in this disorder are known to specifically target the tiny air sacs in the lungs called alveoli, and filtering units of the kidneys called glomeruli
  • The normal function of immune system is to protect from infections and foreign particles by forming antibodies against them. In Goodpasture Syndrome, there is a malfunction of the immune system wherein it starts attacking the body’s own tissue, by forming antibodies against a common protein called collagen
  • Collagen is a major component of tissues in the body. There are many types of collagen. In Goodpasture Syndrome, antibodies are formed against a specific type of collagen that is predominantly found in the lungs and kidneys
  • Individuals of Caucasian origin are reported to be vulnerable to this condition. Frequently, young adult men develop Goodpasture Syndrome. Some known risk factors for developing this condition include smoking, drug use, and exposure to metallic dust or industrial toxic fumes
  • While there may be a genetic cause for this condition, the collagen-specific antibodies (anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies) that specifically target the protein in the lungs and kidneys are known to develop either sporadically, or as a result of exposure to toxins and respiratory conditions such as pneumonia
  • Some common signs and symptoms of the disorder include fatigue, bloody or frothy urine, cough that may contain blood, edema, and high blood pressure. Goodpasture Syndrome can potentially lead to severe complications that include chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, and respiratory failure
  • For the diagnosis of Goodpasture Syndrome, information from a physical examination, assessment of the symptoms, diagnostic tests including detection of antibodies, and biopsy of kidney tissue may be required
  • This disorder is mainly treated by immunosuppressive medications and through a blood filtration procedure, known as plasmapheresis, to remove the disease-causing antibodies. Apart from this, medications to control blood pressure may be prescribed
  • No specific methods or guidelines are available for the prevention of this condition. However, reducing exposure to toxic fumes and avoiding other risk factors are believed to help delay the onset of Goodpasture Syndrome
  • With timely intervention and effective treatment, the prognosis of Goodpasture Syndrome is generally good. Although, individuals with extensive kidney damage might require lifelong dialysis

Please find comprehensive information on Goodpasture Syndrome regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

Assistant Medical Director, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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