Rare Disease Threatens Young Boy’s Life: How Acute Glomerulonephritis nearly Killed a 12-Year-Old from Ho Chi Minh City

Twelve-year-old Quan from Ho Chi Minh City was recently diagnosed with acute glomerulonephritis caused by streptococcus. The condition resulted in facial swelling, reduced urination, rapid weight gain up to 55 kg, and overall body swelling. His family initially believed his symptoms were a sore throat and treated him with fever-reducing medicine before realizing the severity of the situation.

Quan’s symptoms worsened last week, prompting his family to bring him from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City for a medical examination. Upon arriving at Tan Son Nhat airport, Quan experienced headaches and difficulty breathing, requiring emergency treatment at Tam Anh General Hospital.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Minh Hien of the Department of Pediatrics diagnosed Quan with acute glomerulonephritis after identifying pleural effusion, diffuse interstitial lung damage, hematuria, and nephrotic-range proteinuria on April 17th. The doctor emphasized the risks of uncontrolled hypertension in children with acute glomerulonephritis.

Quan’s condition improved significantly over the next few days with diuretics, antihypertensive medications, and a low-salt diet. His blood pressure was under control by day four; edema reduced gradually; weight returned to normal; and blood tests showed no worsening kidney damage. Quan was discharged from the hospital and scheduled for a follow-up appointment in a week.

Acute glomerulonephritis is a common kidney disease in children aged two to twelve years old and can be triggered by acute respiratory or skin infections. Symptoms can manifest suddenly and may include edema, oliguria (reduced urination), hematuria (blood in the urine), elevated blood pressure, life-threatening complications such as pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs) or renal failure (complete loss of kidney function). Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these severe complications.

It is vital for parents to seek medical attention promptly if their child exhibits any signs of these symptoms or has had recent contact with someone who has been diagnosed with an infection that could trigger acute glomerulonephritis.

In conclusion, acute glomerulonephritis can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early enough or treated appropriately. It is essential for families to recognize the warning signs of this condition and seek medical help as soon as possible to prevent severe complications such as pulmonary edema or renal failure.