IgA glomerulonephritis and pregnancy

One hundred and sixteen pregnancies in 70 women with a biopsy-proven diagnosis of IgA glomerulonephritis have been analysed. Thirty percent (35) of the fetuses died, 22% (26) were premature and 44% (52) were full term. Maternal renal function declined during pregnancy in 26% (30) and in 2% (2) this was irreversible post-partum. Hypertension developed in 52% (61) of the pregnancies and in 13% (15) this was irreversible. Increased proteinuria was recorded in 62% (74) of the pregnancies. Fetal loss in pregnancies taking place after biopsy diagnosis was lower (16%) than those in which biopsy was performed either during or following the pregnancy (36%).