Q: Which organ in the body may be related to IgA Nephropathy (IgN)? - select one
A) Adrenal gland
B) Brain
C) Cardia
D) Liver
E) Tonsils
Answer: E
Tonsillitis has been associated with hematuria and proteinuria in IgAN. Tonsils are considered a source of abnormal IgA that forms immune complexes and deposits in the glomeruli.
Although theoretically tonsillectomy can cure IgAN, there is limited evidence for this treatment; however, combining tonsillectomy with immunosuppressive therapy may be relatively more beneficial.
#nephrology
#immunology
References:
1. Hotta O, Miyazaki M, Furuta T, et al. Tonsillectomy and steroid pulse therapy significantly impact on clinical remission in patients with IgA nephropathy. Am J Kidney Dis 2001; 38:736.
2. Akagi H, Kosaka M, Hattori K, et al. Long-term results of tonsillectomy as a treatment for IgA nephropathy. Acta Otolaryngol Suppl 2004; :38.
3. Kochoyan ZS, Dobronravov VA. Tonsillectomy and immunosuppression improve outcomes in Caucasians with high-risk IgA nephropathy. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2026; 41:1284.
4. Rasche FM, Schwarz A, Keller F. Tonsillectomy does not prevent a progressive course in IgA nephropathy. Clin Nephrol 1999; 51:147.
