What is Membranous Nephropathy?
Membranous Nephropathy is a kidney disease that can occur by itself (primary) or in conjunction with several other diseases (secondary) discussed below. Membranous Nephropathy (MN) is one of the most common causes of the Nephrotic Syndrome (see below) in adults, and over time can lead to renal failure as well. Membranous Nephropathy (MN) is caused by the accumulation of immune complexes within the kidney itself. Immune Complexes are created when a person’s antibodies attack something they consider foreign to the body (an antigen), often an infection of some sort. An antibody +an antigen = an immune complex. These immune complexes are normally eliminated while still in the circulation, but under certain conditions can accumulate in different parts of the body. Both the immune complexes and the parts of the kidney where they accumulate are extremely small and can only be seen under a microscope. Therefore, in order to be diagnosed with Membranous Nephropathy, a person must first undergo
