It is the result of an infection, not of the kidneys but of a remote site such as the skin or pharynx, with a specific type of Group A hemolytic streptococcus bacterium. Protein and blood may be present in the urine, and excess fluid commonly accumulates in the body.
Hypertension characteristically is present.
The disorder is uncommon, affecting about 1 out of 10,000 people. The actual incidence may be higher, as asymptomatic cases are predicted to be as many as 4 to 5 times the number that are seen by health care providers. It may occur in people of any age, especially children 6 to 10 years old. The disorder develops 1 to 2 weeks after the skin or throat infection began, and often after the infection has subsided. Risk factors include recent having a history of sore throat , strep throat , streptococcal skin infections such as impetigo , and other streptococcal infections.