IgA

Immunoglobulins are proteins the body makes to fight infection. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is usually made in the lungs and intestines to help fight infections in those areas. People with IgA nephropathy make IgA that is different than normal. Medical science does not know why this different IgA is made but we do know that it enters the bloodstream and builds up in the kidney and causes inflammation. The result is blood or protein in the urine, high blood pressure, and a decrease in kidney function, sometimes severe enough to require long-term dialysis or kidney transplantation.  

At Tufts Medical Center, our kidney doctors care for many patients with IgA nephropathy. We use the most recent medical science to make a plan of care for each individual patient. We use both non-immune therapies (including blood pressure control, dietary modification, glucose control in patients with diabetes) and immune therapy to treat your disease. We are also part of an ongoing clinical trial, the Omeros Trial, which is testing the effect of a drug that acts on a very specific part of the immune system (called complement) in patients with IgA nephropathy. Patients with IgA nephropathy that meet specific criteria can choose to join this clinical trial.

Our goal is to give each patients a lifetime of individualized care. We help patients understand what is known and what is not known about their disease and treatments to help them make the best treatment decisions. We understand what it's like to live with kidney disease. The glomerular disease team are experienced and dedicated kidney doctors who can help you and your family life your life with kidney disease.

Programs + Services

Nephrology

The Division of Nephrology at Tufts Medical Center in Boston specializes in the study, diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease and high blood pressure and more.
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Center for Glomerular Disease

Our Glomerular Disease clinic is a multi-disciplinary clinic designed to provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of kidney glomerular disorders. We will use an evidence–based approach combined with individualized decision making to take care of you.
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