HEREDITARY NEPHRITIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Hereditary nephritis, also known as Alport syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the progressive deterioration of the kidneys and other complications primarily affecting the renal system. This condition is typically inherited in an X-linked dominant pattern, although autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant inheritance patterns can also occur.
The primary feature of hereditary nephritis is the abnormal structure and function of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM), a vital component of the kidneys that filters waste from the blood. Due to defects in the genes responsible for producing basement membrane proteins, the GBM becomes progressively scarred, leading to impaired filtration and eventual loss of kidney function.
Individuals with hereditary nephritis often experience symptoms such as blood in the urine (hematuria), proteinuria (excessive protein in the urine), high blood pressure (hypertension), and swelling (edema) in the legs and ankles. The disease can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring lifelong dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Apart from renal complications, hereditary nephritis can affect other organs and systems. It may cause sensorineural hearing loss, ocular abnormalities (e.g., lens dislocation, cataracts), and a thickened basement membrane in the lungs leading to respiratory issues. Additionally, males with Alport syndrome may present with characteristic abnormalities in the shape and function of the lens of the eye.
Treatment of hereditary nephritis primarily focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of renal damage. This may include medication to control blood pressure, dietary modifications to reduce proteinuria, and regular monitoring of kidney function. Genetic counseling is essential for affected individuals and their families to understand the risk of passing on the condition to future generations.
Common Misspellings for HEREDITARY NEPHRITIS
- gereditary nephritis
- bereditary nephritis
- nereditary nephritis
- jereditary nephritis
- uereditary nephritis
- yereditary nephritis
- hwreditary nephritis
- hsreditary nephritis
- hdreditary nephritis
- hrreditary nephritis
- h4reditary nephritis
- h3reditary nephritis
- heeeditary nephritis
- hededitary nephritis
- hefeditary nephritis
- heteditary nephritis
- he5editary nephritis
- he4editary nephritis
- herwditary nephritis
- hersditary nephritis
Etymology of HEREDITARY NEPHRITIS
The word "hereditary nephritis" originates from the combination of two terms: "hereditary" and "nephritis".
1. Hereditary: The term "hereditary" comes from the Latin word "hereditarius", which is derived from "heres" meaning "heir". It indicates something that is passed down from generation to generation through genetic inheritance.
2. Nephritis: The word "nephritis" is derived from the Greek word "nephros", which means "kidney", and the suffix "-itis", which signifies inflammation. Nephritis refers to the inflammation or infection of the kidneys.
Therefore, "hereditary nephritis" refers to a condition in which inflammation of the kidneys is inherited or passed down through generations. This condition, also known as Alport syndrome, is characterized by progressive kidney disease affecting both males and females.
