Histopathological Outcomes and Clinical Correlates of IgA Nephropathy: A 10-Year Single-Center Study of 68 Biopsy-Confirmed Cases in Saudi Arabia

Background: IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common form of primary glomerulonephritis worldwide, and often leads to cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), This study analyzes trends in biopsy-confirmed IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) over a ten-year period and evaluates correlations between clinical/laboratory parameters and histopathological features to identify factors influencing disease progression and patient prognosis. Methods: A retrospective observational study of 68 biopsy confirmed IgAN cases from 2013 to 2022 was conducted. Correlations between clinical/laboratory parameters and histopathological features were examined using statistical methods, including trend and correlation analysis. Results: The incidence rate of IgAN showed variability over the years. Significant correlations were found between age, serum creatinine, eGFR, and histopathological features. Age positively correlated with mesangial hypercellularity (p=0.22) and interstitial fibrosis (p=0.12), while serum creatinine positively correlated with mesangial hypercellularity (p=0.04), tubular atrophy (p=0.09), and interstitial fibrosis (p=0.01). eGFR negatively correlated with these features (all p<0.05). The comparison between non-COVID-19 (2013-2019) and COVID-19 (2020-2022) periods showed no significant difference in incidence rates (p=0.158). Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of tailored treatment strategies for IgAN and underscores the need for further research into factors influencing disease progression. The positive correlations between age, serum creatinine, and histopathological severity highlight the need for comprehensive patient monitoring.