What is IgA nephropathy (Berger disease)?

IgA nephropathy, also called Berger disease, is a kidney condition in which an immune-system antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA) builds up in the kidneys’ tiny filters. These deposits can cause inflammation, blood or protein in the urine, and—over time in some people—reduced kidney function. It is the most common type of glomerulonephritis worldwide.

This guide is for people who are newly diagnosed, family members and caregivers, and anyone seeking clear information or preparing for a second opinion. IgA nephropathy often progresses slowly over years or decades, and many people remain stable for life. Monitoring and treatment can make a meaningful difference.

The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation, also known as The Liver Hope Foundation, provides education and support—not medical care. Please discuss your individual symptoms, test results, and treatment choices with your healthcare provider or nephrologist.

Frequently asked questions about IgA nephropathy

Understanding your diagnosis can help you have more productive conversations with your care team. Explore common questions about symptoms, testing, kidney protection, treatment, and the important connection between liver and kidney health.

What is IgA nephropathy?

IgA nephropathy is an immune-mediated kidney disease. IgA antibodies collect in the glomeruli, the tiny filters that remove waste and extra fluid from the blood. The deposits can trigger inflammation and scarring, which may allow blood and protein to leak into the urine.

Why is it also called Berger disease?

Berger disease is another name for IgA nephropathy. It was named after Dr. Jean Berger, who helped describe the condition. Both names refer to the same disease.

What symptoms can IgA nephropathy cause?

Some people have no symptoms and learn about the condition after a routine urine test. Others notice red, tea-colored, or cola-colored urine—often during or soon after a cold, sore throat, or other infection. Foamy urine may be a sign of protein in the urine. High blood pressure, swelling in the legs or around the eyes, fatigue, or changes in urine output can occur as kidney function worsens.

Blood in the urine should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

How fast does IgA nephropathy progress?

IgA nephropathy varies greatly from person to person. It commonly moves slowly over years or decades, and some people stay stable for life. Others develop increasing protein in the urine, high blood pressure, declining kidney function, and eventually chronic kidney disease. Your urine protein level, blood pressure, kidney function, and biopsy findings can help your nephrologist estimate risk and guide follow-up.

How is IgA nephropathy diagnosed?

Testing may include urine tests for blood and protein, blood tests to measure kidney function, and blood pressure checks. A kidney biopsy is usually needed to confirm IgA nephropathy and assess inflammation and scarring. Your care team may also look for other conditions that can affect the kidneys.

What can I do to protect my kidneys?

Work with your nephrologist to understand your personal blood pressure and urine protein targets. Controlling blood pressure and lowering protein in the urine are key ways to protect kidney function. Your care plan may include medicines, lower-sodium eating, regular activity as advised, avoiding tobacco, and reviewing over-the-counter medicines and supplements before using them. Do not stop or start medication without guidance from your healthcare provider.

Are there treatments for IgA nephropathy?

Yes. Care begins with supportive kidney-protective care, especially blood pressure and proteinuria management. Several newer treatments approved in recent years are designed to target IgA nephropathy more directly, and additional options are being studied. Ask your nephrologist whether a newer treatment or a clinical trial may be appropriate for your situation.

What is the connection between liver disease and IgA nephropathy?

A healthy liver helps clear IgA from the blood. In cirrhosis—especially cirrhosis related to alcohol-associated liver disease—IgA can build up and deposit in the kidneys, causing a form of IgA nephropathy. This is one reason people with cirrhosis may be checked for blood or protein in their urine. It is an important example of how liver damage can directly affect kidney health.

The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation is here to support education across both liver and kidney health. Your healthcare provider can explain what this connection means in your individual case.

Take your next informed step

Download our free IgA nephropathy guide, then bring your questions to your nephrologist. Ask about your blood pressure and urine protein targets, how often you need monitoring, and whether newer treatment options may be right for you. You do not have to navigate a kidney diagnosis alone—consider joining a support group for encouragement and shared understanding.

The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation provides educational resources and support and is not a medical provider.