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Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Glomerulonephritis

Unknown
3
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Chronic Kidney Disease

Moderate
3
Symptoms
6
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs

Overview

Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is inflammation or injury involving the glomeruli, the microscopic filtering structures of the kidneys. Damage can interfere with the kidneys’ ability to remove waste and regulate fluid and electrolytes. Depending on the cause and severity, it may produce blood or protein in the urine, swelling, high blood pressure, reduced urine output, or impaired kidney function. Glomerulonephritis may occur suddenly or develop gradually and can result from infections, immune-system disorders, medications, or other medical conditions.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition in which the kidneys become damaged or lose function over time. Healthy kidneys remove waste and excess fluid from the blood and help regulate blood pressure, electrolytes, and other important processes. Chronic kidney disease may progress gradually and can eventually lead to kidney failure. Early disease may cause few or no noticeable symptoms.

Symptoms

Shared
Upper Abdominal Pain
Only in Left Disease
Cloudy Urine Urinary Retention
Only in Right Disease
Fatigue Weight Loss

Causes

Shared
Autoimmune Disorder Infection
Only in Left Disease
None
Only in Right Disease
Genetics Kidney Disease Obesity Smoking

Diagnosis

Glomerulonephritis
Evaluation begins with a medical history, physical examination, urine testing, blood tests, and assessment of kidney function. Urinalysis may show blood or protein, while blood tests can demonstrate impaired filtration or other abnormalities. Complement levels and tests for autoimmune or infectious causes may help identify the underlying process. Kidney ultrasound may assess kidney structure, while a kidney biopsy may be required in selected cases to determine the exact type and severity of glomerular injury.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Diagnosis uses blood and urine tests to assess kidney function and look for evidence of kidney damage. Blood creatinine is used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate, while urine testing can detect albumin or other abnormalities. Blood pressure measurement and review of medical history are also important. Ultrasound or other imaging may help identify structural abnormalities, obstruction, or other causes. Additional testing may be required when the cause is uncertain.

Prevention

Glomerulonephritis
Not all forms of glomerulonephritis can be prevented because some are related to autoimmune or inherited conditions. Prompt treatment of certain infections and appropriate management of autoimmune, inflammatory, and systemic diseases may reduce kidney complications in susceptible people. Avoiding unnecessary medicines that may injure the kidneys and maintaining appropriate blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health can also support kidney function. People with known risk factors may benefit from periodic medical monitoring.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Not all chronic kidney disease can be prevented, but controlling conditions that damage the kidneys can reduce risk or slow progression. Maintain healthy blood pressure and blood glucose levels, avoid smoking, stay physically active, and maintain a healthy weight. Use medicines as directed and avoid unnecessary use of medicines that can harm the kidneys. People at increased risk should follow recommended kidney-function and urine testing and seek medical advice for persistent abnormalities.

Risk Factors

Glomerulonephritis
Risk factors depend on the specific form of glomerulonephritis and may include recent infections, autoimmune diseases, systemic inflammatory disorders, certain inherited conditions, and diseases affecting blood vessels. A family history of kidney disease can be relevant for some forms. Certain medications and chronic medical conditions may also contribute. Because different forms have different risk profiles, clinical history and appropriate testing are important when kidney inflammation is suspected.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Risk is increased by diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, older age, smoking, and a family history of kidney disease. Previous acute kidney injury and certain inherited or inflammatory kidney disorders can also increase risk. Long-term use of some medicines or exposure to kidney-toxic substances may contribute. Risk is particularly important when several of these factors occur together.

Treatment

Glomerulonephritis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Treatment comparison will be available soon.