SPARK 2025 CHICAGO
By patients, for patients
The IgA Nephropathy Foundation’s mission is to be a patient-centric organization focused on finding a cure for IgA Nephropathy. Using the power of the patient community, we are focused on funding research, using patient advocacy to empower our patients, and building a network of support.
Latest News & Resources About IgAN
Ambassador Program
The IgA Nephropathy Foundation Ambassador Program will bring together and train a select group of inspired patients and caregivers.
Guides & Fact Sheets
Use this guide to learn more about IgA Nephropathy, including common tests used to check your kidney health, what to look for and expect at different stages, and various treatment options.
International IgAN Network
Learn more about the International IgA Nephropathy Network. For Clinicians and Patients with IgA Nephropathy.
“Knowing you’re not alone is very powerful. So is knowing it’s not fully out of my control and I can take steps every day to help.”
CHRIS
IgA Nephropathy Facts
What is IgA Nephropathy?
IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) is a rare, autoimmune disease that attacks the kidneys. It affects how blood is filtered in the small blood vessels of the kidneys. IgAN occurs when an abnormal protein damages the filtering unit (glomerulus) inside the kidneys. It is estimated that 20-40% of the people who have IgAN will develop end-stage kidney disease, which means they will need dialysis or kidney transplantation to survive.
How is IgA Nephropathy Diagnosed?
The first sign of IgAN is often blood in the urine. Should this occur, you should immediately consult your doctor.
How is IgA Nephropathy Treated?
There is no current cure for IgAN and that is why the IgA Nephropathy Foundation was founded.
Faces of IgA Nephropathy
Our mission is to be a patient-centric organization focused on finding a cure for IgA Nephropathy. Using the power of the patient community we are focused on funding research, using patient advocacy to empower our patients, and building a network of support.As a patient run organization, we will work together with the hope of finding better treatment options and ultimate cure. By patients, for patients.
What is IgA Nephropathy and How Does It Affect Your Kidneys?
IgAN occurs when abnormal antibody immunoglobulin A’s (IgA) are produced. The exact reason why Abnormal IgA’s are produced is unclear, but genetic factors likely play an important role. The body produces other antibodies (IgG) to attack the IgA antibodies that it no longer recognizes as ‘self’.
The IgG antibodies form a complex with the abnormal IgA antibodies and this complex often gets trapped at sites of filtration, specifically the kidneys. As a result, the body’s immune system attacks the abnormal IgA antibodies in the kidney, and affects the kidney’s ability to filter the wastes from your blood and produce healthy urine.
Latest From The IgAN Foundation
The IgAN Blog
Understanding Salt/Sodium Restrictions in IGA Nephropathy: A Comprehensive Guide
5 Ways to Lower Protein in the Urine with IgAN
Considerations for Post-Transplant Diet for IgA Nephropathy
Gluten-Free Diet and IgA Nephropathy
Ways to Make Your Diet More Plant-Forward
10 IgAN-Friendly Recipes
Lemon Oregano Chicken
Kidney-Friendly Blueberry Compote
Easy Red Bean and Lentil Chili
Tofu Scramble w. Avocado Toast
Creamy Berry & Peaches Smoothie
