Secondary glomerular disease

Secondary glomerular diseases are common worldwide and can manifest in many ways. Bacterial and viral infections, especially hepatitis and HIV, can cause a variety of patterns of glomerular injury often presenting with nephrotic syndrome, as can tumours and drugs. Diabetes mellitus and systemic lupus erythematosus are also important causes. Identifying underlying agents leads to specific treatments and can lead to resolution of the glomerular injury. This review explores the commonest secondary glomerular diseases and their management.