Glomerular Disease
The Glomerular Disease Collaborative Clinic at UI Health offers comprehensive, high-quality care for patients with glomerular diseases. Our expert team of nephrologists and rheumatologists, nurse practitioners, nutritionists, and pharmacists provide the only comprehensive care of its kind in the Chicago area.
At UI Health, we prioritize patient-centered, collaborative care, ensuring you and your family receive the clinical expertise and support you deserve. Our goal is to identify the cause of your disease and work in partnership with you to select the best treatment plan.
We Treat Many Glomerular Diseases, Including:
- Lupus nephritis
- Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)
- Minimal Change Disease (MCD)
- Iga Nephropathy
- Vasculitides
What are Glomerular Diseases?
Glomerular diseases encompass a variety of conditions with genetic, systemic, and environmental causes. Most glomerular diseases have specific names but might also be called either:
- Glomerulonephritis (gloh-MEHR-yoo-loh-nef-RY-tis) describes the inflammation of the membrane tissue in the glomerulus of the kidney that serves as a filter, separating wastes and extra fluid from the blood.
- Glomerulosclerosis (gloh-MEHR-yoo-loh-skleh-ROH-sis) describes the scarring or permanent damage to the tiny blood vessels within the kidney.
Glomerular diseases damage the glomeruli, the kidney's tiny filters where blood is cleaned. When these filters become damaged or clogged, waste and toxins accumulate in the body while beneficial substances such as blood and protein are released into the urine. While many patients may not initially exhibit symptoms, eventual buildup of waste in the blood can lead to swelling of the face, hands, feet, or legs.
Over time, glomerular disease can result in serious health issues, such as:
- High blood pressure
- Chronic kidney disease
- Kidney failure, which may require dialysis or a kidney transplant
How are glomerular diseases diagnosed and treated?
Our expert team may recommend blood tests, urinalysis, imaging such as ultrasound, or, in some cases, a kidney biopsy to help diagnose. Our multidisciplinary team at UI Health will create a tailored treatment plan for you, which may include medications to lower blood pressure, reduce swelling, decrease cholesterol, and limit inflammation.
Our team may also include nutritionists to assist you in managing your disease effectively. Your treatment plan will be customized to meet your unique needs.
Make an Appointment
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 866.600.2273.
