MPGN
Also written as: MPGN — Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, a pattern of glomerular injury characterized by mesangial proliferation and capillary wall thickening with double contours.
Full Definition
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is a histological pattern of glomerular injury characterized by mesangial hypercellularity, endocapillary proliferation, and capillary wall remodeling with basement membrane duplication creating a 'double contour' or 'tram-track' appearance on electron microscopy. In pediatric nephrology, MPGN is classified into primary (idiopathic) forms and secondary forms associated with infections, autoimmune diseases, or complement abnormalities. Clinical presentation typically includes hematuria, proteinuria, hypertension, and reduced complement levels. The condition may present as acute nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, or asymptomatic urinary abnormalities. Current classification focuses on complement pathway involvement rather than traditional morphological types, with C3 glomerulopathy representing a distinct category within the MPGN pattern.
Usage
Usage note: Current classification emphasizes complement pathway involvement; specify primary vs. secondary and complement profile.
In Context
- "Renal biopsy showed MPGN pattern with prominent double contours and low C3 levels." — Nephrology consultation
- "The patient's MPGN was classified as C3 glomerulopathy based on complement studies." — Pathology conference presentation