Key takeaways

  • Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy occurs when IgA builds up in the kidney filters (glomeruli), leading to swelling and damage. It usually does not cause a rash.
  • A rash is more likely with complications like chronic kidney disease or kidney failure, which can cause intensely itchy skin. The rash may look like small dome-shaped bumps that cluster into rough, raised patches.
  • Diagnosis often includes a physical exam, blood and urine tests, and a kidney biopsy to confirm IgA deposits. Treatment may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, blood pressure medications, and dialysis or transplant for kidney failure.

IgA nephropathy occurs when a protein called immunoglobulin A (IgA) builds up in the kidneys. This causes swelling and damage in the tiny filters of the kidneys, called glomeruli.

IgA nephropathy doesn’t typically cause skin changes. However, if the condition progresses, it can lead to kidney failure, which can result in itchy skin and a rash.

IgA nephropathy itself does not typically result in a rash. However, it can lead to complications such as chronic kidney disease and kidney failure, which can result in itchy skin and a rash.

Common characteristics of a rash caused by kidney disease include:

  • small, dome-shaped bumps
  • extremely itchy skin around the bumps
  • small bumps that appear together and form rough and raised patches

If you notice a rash like this, consider talking with a healthcare professional. They can examine the area more closely and suggest treatment options to help manage symptoms.

IgA nephropathy occurs when antibodies collect in the glomeruli (small filters inside the kidney), which can lead to scarring and kidney damage.

Although researchers still don’t know the exact cause of this reaction, it’s thought to be a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers.

While any person can develop IgA nephropathy, some factors may increase your chances, including:

  • Age: It often develops between the ages 10 to 40 years old.
  • Sex: It tends to affect men more than women.
  • Ethnicity: It’s more common in people of East Asian and white European descent.
  • Family history: Having a family member with IgA nephropathy increases your risk.
  • Infections: These include certain conditions, like hepatitis, HIV infection, and those affecting the upper respiratory tract.

However, having risk factors does not mean you will definitely develop IgA nephropathy.

Diagnosing IgA nephropathy usually begins with a physical exam and a review of your symptoms, including recent infections.

A doctor may then order blood and urine tests to check for signs of inflammation, protein, and blood in urine.

They may also order a kidney biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of kidney tissue using a needle, usually guided by ultrasound and CT, for analysis.

The kidney sample helps confirm IgA nephropathy by showing similar IgA deposits.

Treatment for an IgA nephropathy rash depends on the severity of your symptoms and which organs are affected.

While there’s no cure for IgA nephropathy, treatments can help you manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

Possible treatment options include:

  • Corticosteroids: If symptoms are more severe, doctors may prescribe corticosteroids, such as prednisone to reduce inflammation.
  • Immunosuppressants: Doctors can prescribe medications that reduce immune system activity such as cyclophosphamide, if the condition is progressing quickly.
  • Blood pressure medications: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) may help protect kidney function and reduce the leakage of protein into your urine.
  • Rest and hydration: These supportive measures may ease symptoms during a flare-up or when your symptoms are mild.
  • Dialysis or kidney transplant: A doctor may recommend these treatments if IgA nephropathy progresses to kidney failure (end stage kidney disease).

However, if you experience signs of kidney damage, such as swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination, you should talk with a healthcare professional immediately.

They may recommend additional medications or refer you to a nephrologist (kidney specialist) for further management.

IgA nephropathy doesn’t typically cause skin changes. However, if the condition progresses, it can lead to kidney failure, which can result in itchy skin and a rash.

If you are experiencing a rash that won’t go away, it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional to understand what’s causing it. Early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent complications.