People with post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis may bruise due to a combination of factors, including the effects of inflammation on blood vessels and changes in platelet function or clotting factors caused by the underlying kidney condition. The kidneys' impaired ability to filter waste and regulate blood components can lead to alterations in blood pressure and increased fragility of blood vessels. Additionally, fluid retention and changes in blood volume can further contribute to bruising.
ASO (Anti-streptolysin O) titers are raised in conditions such as streptococcal infections, rheumatic fever, and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. These conditions are typically associated with an immune response to Group A Streptococcus bacteria.
Antistreptolysin O (ASO) is an antibody produced in response to streptolysin O, a toxin released by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Elevated ASO levels indicate recent streptococcal infection, which can be associated with conditions like rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Testing for ASO helps in diagnosing these complications, but it does not have direct therapeutic effects. Instead, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying streptococcal infection.
Untreated streptococcal infections, particularly strep throat, can lead to serious complications such as acute rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart, joints, and nervous system. Additionally, these infections may cause post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, leading to kidney damage. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial to prevent these potentially severe outcomes. Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of long-term health issues associated with streptococcal infections.
DefinitionPost-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (GN) is a disorder of the kidneys that occurs after infection with certain strains of Streptococcus bacteria.Alternative NamesGlomerulonephritis - post-streptococcal; Post-infectious glomerulonephritisCauses, incidence, and risk factorsPost-streptococcal GN is a form of glomerulonephritis. It is the result of an infection, not of the kidneys, but of a completely different area, such as the skin or throat, with a specific type of Group A beta hemolytic streptococcus bacteria.The strep bacterial infection causes the tiny blood vessels called glomeruli in the kidneys to become inflamed, making the kidneys less able to filter and control the content of the urine.Post-streptococcal GN is uncommon these days because infections that can lead to the disorder are commonly treated with antibiotics. The disorder may develop 1 - 2 weeks after an untreated throat infection, or 3 - 4 weeks after a skin infection.It may occur in people of any age, but most often occurs in children ages 6 - 10. Although skin and throat infections are not uncommon in children, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is a rare complication of these infections.Risk factors include:Strep throatStreptococcal skin infections (such as impetigo)SymptomsDecreased urine outputEdema (swelling) Generalized swellingSwelling of the abdomenSwelling of the face or eyesSwelling of the feet, ankles, extremitiesRust-colored urineVisible blood in the urineOther symptoms that may be associated with this disease:Joint painJoint stiffnessor swellingSigns and testsAbnormal sounds may be heard when listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope (auscultation).Anti-DNase Btest may be abnormal.Blood pressureis often high.Kidney biopsyconfirms post-streptococcal GN (although biopsy is not usually necessary).Physical examination shows swelling (edema), especially of the faceSerum ASO may be raised.Serum complement levels usually decrease.Urinalysisshows protein and blood in the urine.TreatmentThere is no specific treatment for post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms.Antibiotics, such as penicillin, should be used to destroy any streptococcal bacteria that remain in the body. Blood pressure medications and diuretic medications may be needed to control swelling and high blood pressure. Corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory medications are generally not effective.Dietary salt restriction may be necessary to control swelling and high blood pressure.Expectations (prognosis)Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis usually goes away by itself after several weeks to months. In a minority of adults, it may progress to chronic kidney failure.ComplicationsAcute renal failureChronic glomerulonephritisChronic renal failureCongestive heart failure or pulmonary edemaEnd-stage renal diseaseHyperkalemiaHigh blood pressure (hypertension)Nephrotic syndromeCalling your health care providerCall your health care provider if you have symptoms of post-streptococcal GN.If you have experienced post-streptococcal GN, call your health care provider if you have decreased urine output or other new symptoms.PreventionTreating known streptococcal infections may prevent post-streptococcal GN.ReferencesAppel GB. Glomerular disorders and nephrotic syndromes. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 122.
This test shows a past infection of Group A Streptococcal bacteria, which can cause a sore throat and is seen fairly commonly in children. It will go away by itself and doesn't normally need medication. There is a possible, rare complication that may occur that affects the kidneys called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Watch out for any swelling, lower back pain, difficulty urinating or feeling tired.
Beta-hemolytic streptococci, particularly Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes), can cause several diseases, the most notable being strep throat (streptococcal pharyngitis). This bacterium can also lead to skin infections, such as impetigo, and more severe conditions like rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae) is associated with serious infections in newborns, including sepsis and meningitis.
High ASLO (Anti-Streptolysin O) blood levels typically indicate a recent or ongoing infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria, often associated with illnesses like rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Elevated levels suggest that the immune system has responded to the streptococcal toxins. However, high ASLO alone is not diagnostic; it should be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other laboratory findings.
Strep throat, caused by Streptococcus bacteria, typically does not lead directly to blood in the urine (hematuria). However, if a strep infection leads to complications such as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, it can affect the kidneys and potentially result in hematuria. It's important to consult a healthcare professional if there are symptoms of blood in the urine, as it can indicate various underlying conditions.
Streptococci bacteria can cause a variety of diseases, ranging from mild to severe. Common illnesses caused by these bacteria include strep throat, impetigo, and scarlet fever. Certain strains, particularly Streptococcus pneumoniae, can lead to more serious conditions like pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia. Additionally, some groups of streptococci are implicated in post-infectious complications such as rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
Residuals of scarlet fever can include various long-term effects that may arise after the acute phase of the illness. These can include complications such as rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart, joints, and nervous system, as well as kidney issues like post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Some individuals may also experience lingering symptoms like skin issues or behavioral changes. However, many people recover completely without long-term consequences.
A positive ASO (anti-streptolysin O) titer indicates a recent infection with Group A Streptococcus, which can lead to conditions like rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. While a positive titer itself does not mean you are currently infected or at risk of complications, it suggests a past infection that may require monitoring or treatment. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate evaluation and management.
When certain strains of group A Streptococcus infect an individual and lead to the accumulation of antibody-antigen complexes in the kidneys, the disease is called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. This condition can occur following infections such as strep throat or skin infections and is characterized by inflammation of the glomeruli, which can affect kidney function. Symptoms may include hematuria, edema, and hypertension.