Skip to content

Patient case: Acute Glomerulonephritis in a Paediatric Patient in Sub-Saharan Africa

Patient details
Patient details.
Name: F Age: 10 years Gender: Female Residence: Rural Ethiopia Occupation: Student
Patient case fields
Presenting Complaint

F’s parents brought her to the local clinic after noticing that her face, particularly around her eyes, had become swollen over the past three days. The swelling was worse in the mornings and improved slightly during the day. They also reported that her urine appeared dark, like “tea,” and that her urine output had decreased significantly. F has been complaining of mild headaches and some discomfort in her abdomen but has no fever. The family mentions that she had a sore throat two weeks ago, which was treated with traditional remedies, but she did not visit a healthcare facility.

Past Medical History

F has no known history of kidney disease or other chronic illnesses. She has had occasional sore throats but otherwise enjoys good health. The family relies on untreated river water for drinking and household purposes.

Physical Examination

Vital signs: Blood pressure: 130/85 mmHg (elevated for her age), pulse 90 bpm, afebrile

General appearance: Appears well-nourished but with noticeable puffiness around her eyes and mild swelling in her lower legs

Cardiovascular and respiratory: Normal heart sounds, clear lung fields

Abdomen: Mild tenderness, no palpable masses

Extremities: Bilateral pitting oedema of the lower limbs

Urine output: Decreased, dark-coloured urine

Laboratory Results:

Urinalysis: Haematuria (gross blood), proteinuria (+), no significant white blood cells

Serum creatinine: Mildly elevated

Electrolytes: Mild hyperkalaemia

ASO titer: Elevated, suggestive of recent streptococcal infection

Renal ultrasound: Normal kidney size and shape, no evidence of chronic disease

Diagnosis

F is diagnosed with acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN), likely triggered by a recent streptococcal throat infection. The presence of hematuria, proteinuria, and recent sore throat, along with elevated ASO titer, support the diagnosis.

Plan and Management
  1. Blood pressure control: Begin antihypertensive therapy (nifedipine) to manage her elevated blood pressure.
  2. Fluid management: Limit fluid and salt intake to reduce edema and hypertension.
  3. Monitor kidney function: Serial measurements of serum creatinine, electrolytes, and urine output.
  4. Treat the underlying infection: While the acute infection is likely resolved, antibiotic therapy (penicillin) may be considered to prevent future streptococcal infections.
  5. Follow-up: Monitor F for resolution of symptoms and improvement in kidney function over the next few weeks, as APSGN is usually self-limiting with appropriate supportive care.

F's prognosis is generally good, with most cases of acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis resolving spontaneously, though close monitoring is needed to ensure no progression to chronic kidney disease.

Discussion
No data was found
Questions
1.What is the most likely cause of F’s acute glomerulonephritis?

(a). Viral infection

(b). Recent streptococcal throat infection

(c). Malaria

(d). Dehydration

2. Which clinical feature is most characteristic of acute glomerulonephritis?

(a). Hyperglycaemia

(b). Dark, tea-coloured urine and facial swelling

(c). Frequent urination

(d). Hypotension

3. What is the most likely mechanism behind F’s kidney condition?

(a). Autoimmune attack on the kidney due to a recent infection

(b). Direct bacterial infection of the kidneys

(c). Chronic high blood pressure

(d). Genetic kidney disorder

4. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management for F’s elevated blood pressure?

(a). Corticosteroids

(b). Nifedipine (calcium channel blocker)

(c). ACE inhibitors

(d). Diuretics

Reveal answers

Answers

  1. (b) Recent streptococcal throat infection
  2. (b) Dark, tea-colored urine and facial swelling
  3. (a) Autoimmune attack on the kidney due to a recent infection
  4. (b) Nifedipine (calcium channel blocker)

Are you a Medical Doctor?