What is the most common presentation of IgA nephropathy?

The most common presentation of IgA nephropathy, also known as Berger's disease, is recurrent episodes of gross hematuria. This condition typically manifests as visible blood in the urine, which can occur following upper respiratory infections or other illnesses. Many patients may experience this hematuria intermittently, often without significant proteinuria or decline in kidney function initially.

IgA nephropathy is characterized by the deposition of IgA antibodies in the mesangial region of the glomeruli, leading to inflammation and injury. While patients may eventually develop chronic kidney disease, especially in more severe cases, the hallmark initial symptom tends to be the presence of blood in the urine rather than a significant amount of protein or sudden renal failure.