CME/CE Test

In humans there are 2 subclasses of immunoglobulin A (IgA): IgA1 and IgA2.

Is there any morphological difference between IgA1 and IgA2?

Yes, IgA1 has a short hinge region and IgA2 has an extended hinge region

Yes, IgA1 has an extended hinge region and IgA2 has a short hinge region

No, there is no morphological difference between IgA1 and IgA2 and they have a short hinge region

No, there is no morphological difference between IgA1 and IgA2 and they have an extended hinge region
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a rare, progressive, autoimmune disease.

Which of the following best characterizes the pathophysiology of IgAN?

Accumulation of immune complexes consisting of galactose-deficient IgA2 bound by antibodies

Accumulation of immune complexes consisting of galactose-deficient IgA1 antibodies bound by antibodies

Accumulation of galactose-enriched IgA1 in the systemic circulation

Accumulation of galactose-deficient IgA2 in the systemic circulation
What is the major site of production for the type of IgA1 found in the glomerular mesangium of patients with IgAN?

Glomeruli

B cells in the Peyer's Patches

Bone marrow

Mesenteric lymph nodes
Targeted-release formulation-budesonide is the first disease-modifying therapy conditionally approved for patients with primary IgAN at risk for end-stage kidney disease. The NefIgArd study is an ongoing phase 3 trial of targeted budesonide in patients with IgAN who are receiving optimized renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockade. Results for the first part of this study (Part A) are available.

According to the NefIgArd Part A study findings, how did the effectiveness of enteric budesonide compare with that of optimized supportive care alone after 9 months, as measured by the urine protein/creatinine ratio (UPCR) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)?

Reduced UPCR and no change in eGFR

Reduced UPCR and increased eGFR

No change in UPCR and increased eGFR

No change in either UPCR or eGFR

CME/CE Test

Understanding IgA Nephropathy: Evolving Insights Into Disease State Pathophysiology as a Foundation for Novel Treatment Options