Dialysis and Kidney Transplant for IgA Nephropathy

For most people with IgA nephropathy, treatment focuses on protecting the kidneys and slowing the disease. But if IgA nephropathy leads to kidney failure, the kidneys can no longer filter the blood well enough on their own. When this happens, dialysis or a kidney transplant can take over that job and help you live for many more years.^1-4

When are dialysis or a transplant needed?

IgA nephropathy progresses slowly for many people, and some never reach kidney failure. But over time, the disease can cause the kidneys to stop working well enough to support the body. This stage is called kidney failure, or end-stage kidney disease. At that point, your care team will talk with you about dialysis or a transplant.^1-4

What is dialysis?

Dialysis is a treatment that filters waste and extra fluid from your blood when your kidneys can no longer do it. There are 2 main types:⁴

• Hemodialysis – A machine filters your blood, usually at a dialysis center, though some people do it at home.
• Peritoneal dialysis – The lining of your own belly is used to filter your blood, often done at home.

Your care team will help you choose the option that best fits your health and your daily life.

What is a kidney transplant?

A kidney transplant is surgery to place a healthy kidney from a donor into your body. For people whose IgA nephropathy has progressed to kidney failure, a transplant is often the preferred treatment. A transplant is not a cure, but it can let you return to many of your usual activities.^1,3

IgA nephropathy can come back after a transplant

It is important to know that IgA nephropathy can return in a transplanted kidney. This is called recurrent IgA nephropathy, and it happens in about 20 to 50 percent of people who receive a transplant. The good news is that, when it does return, it is often less severe and may not cause major kidney damage. Your transplant team will watch for it and can check a transplanted kidney with a biopsy if needed.¹

Living well with these treatments

Both dialysis and transplant come with their own routines, and many people live full lives while managing them. With some planning, many people are even able to continue working and traveling.^1,3,4

Taking your medicines as prescribed, keeping up with your appointments and checkups, and leaning on your care team and loved ones all help. If you have had a transplant, you will need to take anti-rejection medicines for the rest of your life. These medicines prevent rejection of the new kidney and are critical for transplant recipients.^1,3,4

Talk to your doctor

Thinking about dialysis or a transplant can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to make these decisions alone. Your care team will walk you through your options well before you need them, so you have time to ask questions and plan. Talk with your doctor about which path fits your health, your goals, and your life.^3,4