Several cases of acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) have been recorded in communities throughout the Northern Territory (NT) since 28 March 2022. APSGN is a legislated notifiable disease in the NT.
The inflammatory kidney disease typically occurs 2-3 weeks after a group A streptococcus (GAS) skin infection (impetigo) or throat infection (tonsillitis). In some cases, bacteria groups C and G streptococcus also lead to the disease. Due to the more common nature of skin infections in the NT, they are a more predominant precursor to APSGN over throat infections.
Health Professionals should be vigilant for children with impetigo or tonsillitis and treat them immediately. If children present with a puffy face, sores or dark coloured urine, they should be checked for:
- a sudden increase in weight
- an increase in BP
- blood or protein in the urine
- oedema.
If a HP believes there is a case of APSGN, notify the GP or DMO. As APSGN is a notifiable disease, public health action is required for all probable and confirmed cases.
For more information about APSGN, visit the Northern Territory Guidelines for Acute Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis or contact the RAHC Clinical team.