Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies-associated glomerulonephritis: From bench to bedside

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a group of autoimmune disorders that predominantly affects small vessels. The onset of the disease is closely associated with ANCA. Renal involvement, also known as ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis (AGN), is one of the most common manifestations of AAV. In this mini-review, we described the clinical and pathological features of AGN. We then focused on recent studies on the mechanism of acute kidney lesions, including fibrinoid necrosis and crescent formation. Following the basic aspects of kidney injury in AGN, we demonstrated the clinical importance of kidney injury in determining the outcome of patients with AGN. The prognostic value of the 2010 Histopathological Classification of AGN and validating studies were summarized. Finally, treatment and novel therapeutic strategies were introduced addressing the importance of optimizing management of this patient population.