What is the Difference Between Pyelonephritis and Glomerulonephritis?

Pyelonephritis and glomerulonephritis are two types of kidney inflammations that differ in their causes, symptoms, and effects on the kidneys. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Causes: Pyelonephritis is typically caused by a bacterial infection in the urinary tract, such as E. coli, and is usually acute. Glomerulonephritis, on the other hand, can be caused by a bacterial infection in the throat, an abscessed tooth, or even autoimmune diseases like lupus. It may be acute or chronic.
2. Location: Pyelonephritis involves the inflammation of the kidney itself, resulting from a urinary tract infection. Glomerulonephritis, on the other hand, is the inflammation of tiny blood-filtering vessels known as glomeruli in the kidneys.
3. Symptoms: Common signs and symptoms of pyelonephritis include back pain (due to the location of the kidneys), fever, nausea or vomiting, and gross hematuria (visible blood in the urine). Glomerulonephritis symptoms may vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition.
4. Diagnosis: Diagnosis of pyelonephritis may involve testing for leukocyte esterase and nitrite levels in the urine, as well as imaging of the kidneys in high-risk patients. Glomerulonephritis diagnosis may require further testing to determine the underlying cause and severity of the condition.
5. Treatment: Pyelonephritis can be treated with either oral or intravenous antibiotics, including penicillins, cephalosporins, vancomycin, fluoroquinolones, and carbapenems. Glomerulonephritis treatment depends on the causative factor and may involve addressing the underlying infection or autoimmune disease.

In summary, pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection of the kidney, usually acute, and typically caused by a urinary tract infection. Glomerulonephritis, on the other hand, is an inflammation of the glomeruli in the kidneys and can be either acute or chronic, with various potential causes.

Comparative Table: Pyelonephritis vs Glomerulonephritis

The main difference between pyelonephritis and glomerulonephritis lies in the part of the kidney that is affected. Pyelonephritis is the inflammation of the kidney caused due to a urinary tract infection that reaches the renal pelvis of the kidney. In contrast, glomerulonephritis is the inflammation of tiny blood vessels of the kidney known as glomeruli. Here is a table summarizing the differences between pyelonephritis and glomerulonephritis:

Both conditions are types of nephritis, which is the inflammation of the kidneys, and can be caused by infections, toxins, or autoimmune diseases.