From the Research
IgA nephropathy is associated with various eye signs, including episcleritis, scleritis, hypertensive retinopathy, and uveitis, as reported in a recent study published in 2023 1. These ocular manifestations are thought to be related to the same immune complex deposition mechanism that affects the kidneys in IgA nephropathy. The most common ocular manifestations of IgA nephropathy are:
- Episcleritis (23.6%)
- Scleritis (16.4%)
- Hypertensive retinopathy or retinal vasculopathy (20.0%)
- Uveitis (14.5%) Some patients with IgA nephropathy may also develop papilledema and retinopathy, which can lead to diagnosis of the disease, as seen in a case report published in 2023 2. While these eye conditions are not present in all patients with IgA nephropathy, their occurrence should prompt consideration of this renal disease, especially in patients with hematuria or proteinuria. Treatment of the eye manifestations typically involves addressing the underlying IgA nephropathy with immunosuppressive therapy, along with specific ocular treatments such as topical corticosteroids for uveitis, as reported in a study published in 2023 1. Regular ophthalmologic examinations may be beneficial for patients with IgA nephropathy, particularly those with systemic symptoms or known eye involvement. It is essential to consider IgA nephropathy in patients with ocular inflammatory conditions, as timely recognition and comanagement of the disease with a nephrologist could reduce disease morbidity, as highlighted in a study published in 2023 1.