Most people may not know of Alport Syndrome, however this March, you can help raise awareness about this rare genetic disease. It affects nearly 200,000 people in the United States, according to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF).
Alport Syndrome is caused by genetic mutations in certain tissue structures, which affects the tiny tuffs of capillaries in the kidneys and can also affect the ears and eyes.
The kidneys are always affected by the disease, which could eventually cause the organ to fail. Those with Alport Syndrome will most commonly show signs of blood in their urine. Information from the Alport Syndrome Foundation (ASF) list other symptoms such as protein in urine, high blood pressure and swelling of the legs, ankles, feet and areas around the eyes, In addition, people with Alport Syndrome experience hearing problems and eye abnormalities.
The ASF lists the three different variations of Alport Syndrome:
- X-linked Alport Syndrome (XLAS), which is most common
- Autosomal Recessive Alport Syndrome (ARAS), which affects males and females similarly
- Autosomal Dominant form (ADAS), which equally affects males and females
Early diagnosis is key with the disease. Tests include skin and kidney biopsies and an ultrasound of the kidneys. Medications can help slow down the effects of kidney disease.
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