Thin Basement Membrane Nephropathy

A type of nephritic syndrome, hereditary and usually autosomal dominant.

Clinical features

Most patients are asymptomatic, incidentally found to have microscopic haematuria on routine urinalysis. Mild proteinuria and gross haematuria occasionally occur. Renal function is typically normal, though a few patients develop progressive renal failure for unknown reasons. Recurrent flank pain (similar to IgA nephropathy — see iga-nephropathy.md) is a rare manifestation.

Diagnosis

Based on family history plus haematuria without other symptoms or pathology. Renal biopsy isn’t necessary but is often done as part of a broader haematuria evaluation.

Management

Long-term prognosis is excellent and no treatment is necessary in most cases. For frequent gross haematuria, flank pain, or proteinuria (urine protein:creatinine ratio >0.2), use an ACEi or ARB.