Is there any treatment to prevent kidney failure in Alport’ syndrome?

There is no genetic cure for Alport’s. At present, the abnormal gene cannot be replaced with a normal one.

However, as in all types of kidney disease, much can be done to try and reduce the rate of kidney damage, and to make someone feel as normal as possible as kidney failure develops.

High blood pressure is the most important factor that can speed up the decline in kidney function. Damaged kidneys cause high blood pressure, because one of the jobs of the kidneys is to control the level of blood pressure. High blood pressure damages the kidneys further, and so a vicious cycle develops. Strict control of the blood pressure can break this cycle, delaying the need for dialysis by years in some cases. There is some evidence that high blood pressure can start in childhood, so that starting treatment for high blood pressure even before the age of 10 can be beneficial. Click here for information on high blood pressure.

Treatment for high blood pressure consists of a healthy, salt free diet with exercise. Any excess weight should be lost. Stop smoking and drink no alcohol, or have only a moderate intake. In most people with significant kidney disease, it is also necessary to use drugs to reduce the blood pressure. Up to 4 or 5 different types of drugs may be necessary in some people. Click here for information on drugs for controlling blood pressure.

As kidney failure becomes advanced, anaemia may develop, which can be treated effectively with a drug called EPO. Click here for information on EPO.

NKF Controlled Document No. 54, Is there any treatment to prevent kidney failure in Alport’ syndrome?, written 2 September 2002. Last reviewed 29 November 2010.

The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.

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