Inflammation of the kidneys, specifically affecting the nephrons (filtering units), which can impair kidney function and cause symptoms like blood in urine, swelling, and high blood pressure. It can be acute or chronic.
From Greek 'nephros' meaning 'kidney' and '-itis' meaning 'inflammation.' The term has been used in medicine since the 17th century, initially describing any kidney inflammation before more specific classifications developed.
Glomerulonephritis, a type of nephritis, can follow a simple strep throat infection when antibodies meant to fight the bacteria accidentally attack kidney filters instead. It's like friendly fire in your immune system that can lead to kidney failure.
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