Explore the tests commonly used to evaluate and confirm a diagnosis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN).

• Urinalysis: A basic urine test that checks for the presence of blood or protein, which may indicate potential issues with kidney function.

• Urine Protein-Creatinine Ratio (uPCR): A urine test that measures the levels of protein and creatinine, a waste product. This test provides information about the total amount of different proteins in the urine, not just albumin.

• Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): A blood test used to estimate how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the bloodstream.

• Kidney biopsy: A procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. The results can help identify the cause of kidney problems and assess the risk of future kidney damage.

There is currently no cure for IgAN, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression.

• Blood Pressure Medications: Medications like ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly used to help control blood pressure and reduce protein levels in the urine (proteinuria).

• Corticosteroids: These medications or other immunosuppressants may be used to reduce inflammation in the kidneys.

• Targeted Therapies: Budesonide (Tarpeyo) and sparsentan (Filspari) are FDA-approved targeted therapies for the treatment IgAN.

• Kidney Transplant or Dialysis: For those whose kidneys stop working, a kidney transplant or dialysis may be an option that can restore kidney function and improve quality of life.

• Tonsillectomy: In certain cases, especially in younger individuals, removing the tonsils may be considered. This is because the tonsils can be a source of excess IgA, the protein involved in IgA nephropathy.