The kidneys are one of the vital organs in our body, performing important functions such as filtering blood, excreting waste products, and regulating electrolyte and fluid balance. However, the kidneys are also an organ that is susceptible to damage, and nephritis is one of the common kidney diseases. In the diagnosis of nephritis, pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, and interstitial nephritis are three common types that differ in etiology, symptoms, and treatment. This article will delve into the differences between these three types of nephritis, hoping to bring you more knowledge about kidney health.
Pyelonephritis: the source of bacterial invasion
Pyelonephritis is an inflammation of the kidneys caused by a bacterial infection, usually originating from a urinary tract infection. This disease is common in women because their urethra is relatively short and more susceptible to bacterial infections. The cause of pyelonephritis is mainly bacteria, of which Escherichia coli is one of the most common pathogens. When these bacteria enter the urethra and spread further to the kidneys, pyelonephritis is triggered.
symptoms
Frequent urination: People feel the need to urinate frequently, especially at night.
Urinary urgency: People feel an urgent need to urinate, which can sometimes be difficult to control.
Dysuria: Burning or painful sensation when urine is discharged.
Fever: Patients may have fever symptoms due to infection.
diagnosis
Diagnosis of pyelonephritis is usually based on a history and physical examination, combined with laboratory tests such as urinalysis and urine culture. Urinalysis usually shows leukocytosis and is positive for protein and bacteria. Urine culture can identify the type of causative organism and guide subsequent treatment.
treat
For the treatment of pyelonephritis, it is mainly treated with antibiotics. Sensitive antibiotics are selected based on the results of the susceptibility test of the bacteria, and in general, antibiotics such as penicillins, cephalosporins, and fluoroquinolones are effective in treating pyelonephritis. At the same time, patients also need to get enough rest, eat a light diet, and drink plenty of water to help speed up the elimination of bacteria.
With prompt diagnosis and treatment, most patients can recover in a short period of time. However, if left untreated, pyelonephritis may lead to impaired kidney function and even serious complications such as hydronephrosis, perirenal abscess, etc. Therefore, once the symptoms of pyelonephritis appear, you should seek medical diagnosis and treatment in time to avoid delaying the condition.
Glomerulonephritis: "Accidental injury" of the immune system that accidentally injures the kidneys
Glomerulonephritis is a glomerular disease caused by abnormalities in the immune system, characterized by the deposition of immune complexes in the glomeruli, causing an inflammatory response in the glomerulus. This condition can damage glomerular structure and function, leading to symptoms such as protein in the urine.
Causes of glomerulonephritis
The etiology of glomerulonephritis is complex and may be related to a variety of factors such as genetic factors, infection, and autoimmunity. Among them, autoimmunity is one of the important pathogenesis. When the immune system is abnormal, the glomerular tissue is mistaken for a foreign invading substance and attacks, resulting in glomerular damage.
Symptoms of glomerulonephritis
The symptoms of glomerulonephritis are varied, and the common ones include protein in the urine, edema (especially in the face and legs), and high blood pressure. Protein in the urine is one of the most common symptoms, and patients may experience foamy urine due to the high amount of protein in the urine.
Diagnosis and treatment of glomerulonephritis
The diagnosis of glomerulonephritis requires a combination of clinical presentations, urine tests, renal function tests, and renal biopsy. Renal biopsy is the most reliable diagnostic method to determine the type and extent of the lesion and guide the development of a treatment plan.
The main goals of treatment for glomerulonephritis are to control inflammation, reduce symptoms, and delay the progression of the disease as much as possible. Commonly used treatments include drug therapy such as hormone therapy and immunosuppressants, as well as symptomatic treatment, such as control of hypertension and edema.
Prevention of glomerulonephritis
The occurrence of glomerulonephritis is related to abnormalities of the immune system, and there is no specific preventive measure. However, measures such as maintaining good lifestyle habits, regular check-ups, and timely treatment of infections can reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Interstitial nephritis: the hidden kidney "traitor"
Interstitial nephritis is an inflammatory disease that affects the interstitium of the kidneys and is often overlooked. The disease can be caused by a variety of factors, such as infections and drugs, and the lesions mainly occur in the renal interstitium.
Causes of interstitial nephritis
The etiology of interstitial nephritis is complex and may be related to factors such as infection and drug reactions. Drugs are one of the common triggers, and some drugs may have a direct toxic effect on the renal interstitium, triggering an inflammatory response.
Symptoms of interstitial nephritis
The symptoms of interstitial nephritis are varied, ranging from mild cases to insignificant urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, painful urination, and fever. Sometimes, patients may experience nonspecific symptoms such as general malaise and fatigue.
Diagnosis and treatment of interstitial nephritis
The diagnosis of interstitial nephritis is mainly based on clinical manifestations, urine tests, renal function tests, etc. Renal biopsy can determine the type and extent of the lesion and guide the development of a treatment plan.
The key to treating interstitial nephritis is to treat the underlying disease and control the inflammation. For drug-induced interstitial nephritis, the drug that caused the lesion should be stopped in time and active treatment measures should be taken.