Typically a disease of childhood.
Caused by antibodies to unknown antigens of type 12 group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.
Patients develop symptoms 1-4 weeks after streptococcal infection of the pharynx or skin.
Typically a self-limited process with 95% of children recovering spontaneously.
Associated with low complement levels.
Progresses to chronic renal failure and up to 20% of adults.
In adults who recovery spontaneously renal insufficiency returns to baseline within four weeks and associated complement levels normalize within eight weeks.
Associate hematuria usually resolves within six months.
Proteinurea may persist for up to three years.