Recurrence of glomerulonephritis: an underestimated and unmet medical need.

Abstract

Recurrent glomerulonephritis is increasingly recognized as an important contributor to premature renal allograft failure. The incidence of recurrent glomerulonephritis varies widely depending on original disease, renal biopsy policy, and time of observation. Biopsy-documented clinical recurrence rates underestimate the true prevalence. The impact of recurrent glomerulonephritis on graft survival parameters also widely varies and requires large collaborative efforts with more detailed and balanced evaluations, such as other major causes for chronic renal allograft dysfunction.