What is glomerular hematuria?

Glomerular hematuria refers to the presence of red blood cells in the urine that originate from the glomeruli, the small filters in the kidneys responsible for filtering waste products from the blood. Glomerular hematuria is a sign of damage or dysfunction in the glomeruli and can be caused by various underlying medical conditions. It is often associated with proteinuria, the presence of protein in the urine, and is collectively referred to as glomerular hematuria and proteinuria.

Causes of glomerular hematuria can include:

1. Glomerulonephritis: This is a group of conditions that cause inflammation and damage to the glomeruli. Glomerulonephritis can have various causes, including autoimmune diseases, infections, genetic factors, and certain medications.

2. IgA Nephropathy: Also known as Berger's disease, IgA nephropathy is a common type of glomerulonephritis characterized by the deposition of IgA antibodies in the glomeruli.

3. Goodpasture's Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disease that affects the lungs and kidneys, causing bleeding in the lungs (pulmonary hemorrhage) and glomerular hematuria.

4. Vasculitis: This refers to inflammation of the blood vessels, and certain types of vasculitis, such as Wegener's granulomatosis and microscopic polyangiitis, can affect the kidneys, leading to glomerular hematuria.

5. Sickle Cell Disease: A genetic condition that affects the shape of red blood cells, causing them to become sickle-shaped. Sickle cell disease can lead to damage to the kidneys and glomerular hematuria.

6. Alport Syndrome: A genetic disorder that affects the kidneys, hearing, and vision. It is characterized by progressive kidney disease and glomerular hematuria.

7. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs, including the kidneys, and can cause glomerulonephritis and hematuria.

In some cases, glomerular hematuria may be transient or self-resolving, but persistent or significant hematuria usually requires further evaluation and management of the underlying cause.