Is there another name for anti-GBM disease?
Yes, anti-GBM disease is also called Goodpasture's syndrome.
What causes anti-GBM disease?
The cause of anti-GBM disease is not fully understood, but it is thought to be an autoimmune reaction. In people with this condition, the body's immune system produces antibodies that attack a protein
How common is anti-GBM disease?
Anti-GBM disease is a rare condition. It affects men and women equally. It is most common in young adults, but can occur at any age.
About one in a million new cases of anti-GBM illness are recorded each year, making it a very uncommon condition.
Who is more likely to develop anti-GBM disease?
Anti-GBM illness typically strikes men in their twenties and women in their sixties, while it can afflict anyone of any age. Although cases in children are relatively unusual, they do occur.
There are some factors that may increase your risk of developing anti-GBM disease, including:
• Having another autoimmune condition, such as lupus or Wegener's granulomatosis
• Being a smoker
• Having a family member with the condition
• Being of Caucasian ethnicity
What are the complications of having anti-GBM disease?
Anti-GBM illness can lead to major complications if not treated quickly.
renal inflammation of a severe degree, which can rapidly progress to kidney failure
significant lung haemorrhage that can lead to death from lack of oxygen
Acute kidney failure – this is the most common complication of anti-GBM disease and can occur suddenly.
• Pulmonary hemorrhage – this is another common complication of anti-GBM disease and can occur without warning. In some cases, it can be fatal.
• Permanent kidney damage – this is a potential complication of anti-GBM disease, even with treatment.
• Death – unfortunately, despite treatment, about 20 percent of people with anti-GBM disease will die from the condition.