pathophysiology
What is glomerulonephritis?
An inflammatory disorder of the glomeruli in the kidneys, often caused by immune-mediated damage.
What is a hallmark urinary symptom of glomerulonephritis?
Hematuria, often described as cola-colored or smoky urine.
Which organ is primarily affected by glomerulonephritis?
The kidneys!
What should you assess in the patient’s lower extremities during a head-to-toe exam?
Edema, such as pitting edema in the ankles or feet.
What type of immune response primarily contributes to glomerulonephritis?
Antigen-antibody immune complex deposition in the glomerular basement membrane.
What fluid-related symptom is commonly seen in glomerulonephritis?
Edema, especially in the face, hands, or feet.
How does glomerulonephritis affect the cardiovascular system?
It can cause hypertension and increase the risk of heart strain due to fluid overload.
What vital sign is critical to monitor in a patient with glomerulonephritis?
Blood pressure, to detect hypertension
Name one common cause of acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis.
Recent infection with group A Streptococcus, such as strep throat or impetigo.
What blood pressure change is typical in patients with glomerulonephritis?
Hypertension due to fluid retention and impaired renal function
What is a potential consequence of glomerulonephritis on the renal system if untreated?
Progression to chronic kidney disease or renal failure.
What should you inspect in the patient’s urine during assessment?
Color and clarity, looking for hematuria (cola-colored urine) or proteinuria.
How does immune complex deposition lead to glomerular damage?
It triggers inflammation, causing neutrophil infiltration and damage to the glomerular filtration barrier.
What symptom might a patient report due to decreased glomerular filtration rate?
Oliguria, or decreased urine output.
How might glomerulonephritis impact the hematologic system?
It can lead to anemia due to decreased erythropoietin production by damaged kidneys.
What respiratory assessment finding might indicate a complication of glomerulonephritis?
Crackles in the lungs, suggesting pulmonary edema from fluid overload.
What is the key pathophysiological change in the glomeruli during glomerulonephritis?
Increased permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier, leading to leakage of proteins and blood into the urine.
What systemic symptom may accompany glomerulonephritis, particularly in poststreptococcal cases?
Fatigue or malaise, often related to uremia or systemic inflammation.
What systemic complication can arise from severe glomerulonephritis affecting fluid balance?
Pulmonary edema due to fluid overload from impaired kidney excretion.
What neurological assessment is important to monitor in a patient with severe glomerulonephritis?
Mental status, to detect confusion or lethargy from uremia or electrolyte imbalances.