WHAT CAUSES PROTEIN IN IgA Nephropathy?

Several conditions can cause protein in your kidneys. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, when blood passes through healthy kidneys, the kidneys filter out waste products and leave things that your body needs, such as proteins, in your blood. Most proteins are too large to pass through your kidneys' filters and into your urine. However, certain diseases, called glomerular diseases, can attack the tiny blood vessels, or glomeruli, in your kidneys, causing protein to accumulate in your kidneys and, eventually, your urine.
IgA Nephropathy
IgA nephropathy can cause protein in your kidneys and urine. The NIDDK states IgA nephropathy, also known as Berger's disease, is a kidney disorder that develops when IgA -- a protein that helps your body ward off infections -- settles in your kidneys. Over time, the IgA deposits can cause your kidneys to leak blood and protein into your urine. IgA nephropathy can occur at any age, reports the NIDDK, even in childhood. Men are more commonly affected than women, and IgA nephropathy is more likely to occur in caucasians and Asians. Along with kidney problems caused by diabetes and elevated blood pressure, IgA nephropathy is one of the most common kidney diseases. According to MayoClinic.com, common signs and symptoms associated with IgA nephropathy include protein in your kidneys and urine, cola- or tea-colored urine, flank pain, foamy-appearing urine, swelling in your hands and feet, high blood pressure and low-grade fever.