Post-infectious glomerulonephritis (PIGN) is a type of glomerulonephritis, a group of conditions that affect the kidneys.

Inside the kidneys, there are many tiny filters called glomeruli. They help to remove extra water, salt and waste, which are passed out of the body as urine. They also make sure the body keeps what it needs, such as blood cells, protein and other important chemicals.

About the urinary system and kidneys

In PIGN and other types of glomerulonephritis, the glomeruli become inflamed (swollen) or damaged. The damaged glomeruli cannot properly filter the blood cells and protein, which means they go into the urine.

What happens in PIGN?

PIGN usually happens after an infection. The infection is not in the kidney, but rather a different part of the body, such as the throat, nose or sinuses, or the skin. The infection is often caused by a bacteria (germ) called Streptococcus. When glomerulonephritis occurs after an infection from Streptococcus, the condition is often called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN).

Most children fully recover from these infections. However, a very small number of children get glomerulonephritis after about two weeks from the start of the infection. It is not always clear why a few children get this condition after an infection.

Read more about the immune system

Can PIGN affect other family members?

Doctors do not think that PIGN runs in families. If one of your children has this type of glomerulonephritis, it is unlikely that another of your children or another family member will get it.

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