Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) is a rapid deterioration in kidney function over a short time. This condition usually occurs when there is an acute inflammation of the kidneys.
RPGN is linked to an immune reaction against the glomerulus, the filtering unit of the kidney. Antibodies that form against an infection can become trapped in the glomeruli. The resulting inflammation causes protein and blood to be excreted in the urine. The ability of the kidneys to get rid of toxic wastes is impaired.
The causes of RPGN include: