The cause of primary IgA nephropathy is unknown. Additionally, there are no known infectious or environmental associated factors. However, IgA nephropathy is associated with some genetic mutations and familial clustering as a postulated cause of primary IgAN. Liver cirrhosis, celiac disease, HIV infection are the most common etiologies associated with glomerular IgA deposits and thus secondary IgA nephropathy.

• The cause of primary IgA nephropathy is unknown. Additionally, there are no known infectious or environmental associated factors.
• However, IgA nephropathy is associated with some genetic mutations and familial clustering as a postulated cause of primary IgAN ^[1].
• These genetic associations are poorly studied and are largely inconclusive. There are ongoing studies in this field.
• Primary IgA nephropathy is caused by a genetic predisposition in patients who typically present immediately following a respiratory or gastrointestinal tract infections. The environmental exposure to these infectious agents may thus facilitate the subsequent pathogenesis of the disease.

The most common etiologies associated with glomerular IgA deposits and thus secondary IgA nephropathy include:

• Liver cirrhosis^[2]

• Celiac disease^[2]

• HIV infection^[2]