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APOL1-Mediated 
Kidney Disease (AMKD) 
Infographic
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Learn more about APOL1 mediated kidney disease (AMKD) with National Kidney Foundation's interactive online infographic. This visually engaging resource will help answer question about what AMKD is and how it can be tested. You can also test your knowledge with a brief quiz.

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Managing your Health

APOL1 &Kidney Disease

Reasons for Genetic Testing

Genetic Testing

Test for Kidney Disease

About AMKD

This content is provided for informational use only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for the medical advice of a healthcare professional.

APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease (AMKD) Infographic

  • The gene codes (or contains instructions) for making a protein involved in the immune system.
  • We all inherit two copies of the APOL1 gene, one from our mother and one from our father.

The APOL1 gene

(changes) in the APOL1 (apolipoprotein L1) gene.

AMKD is a type of kidney disease caused by variants

About AMKD

  • Kidney disease can be the result of multiple factors.

Studies have shown a higher risk for kidney disease with two APOL1 risk variants, known as G1 and G2.

  • It is believed that APOL1 variants arose as protection from certain parasites in Western and Central Africa thousands of years ago, but some variants can also raise kidney disease risk.

APOL1 and kidney disease

  • Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR): A blood test that checks how well the kidneys are functioning.
  • Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR): A urine test that checks for high protein (albumin) in the urine, which is a sign of kidney damage.
  • Other tests (kidney biopsy, ultrasound, or CT scan) may be used if more information is needed for a diagnosis.

Tests for kidney disease

  • APOL1 gene testing can be ordered by a physician or genetic counselor.
  • Samples are sent to a lab which determines whether they contain an APOL1 risk variant that causes kidney disease (G1, G2).
  • The test uses a sample of blood or saliva to look for gene variants (changes in the gene).
  • Genetic testing is the only way to find out if a person has APOL1 variants (G1, G2) with higher risk for AMKD.

Genetic testing

Possible reasons to have a genetic test include:

  • Help diagnose AMKD
  • Check if a person is at higher risk for AMKD
  • Find out if family members are at risk for AMKD
  • Can be considered for living kidney donor candidates. Any decisions should include a discussion with your healthcare team.

The decision to have a genetic test is made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Reasons for genetic testing

These steps may include:

  • Regular medical visits
  • Taking your prescribed medicines
  • Exercise or physical activity
  • Healthier eating, such as lowering salt in your diet

Studies on new treatments for AMKD and related kidney diseases are ongoing. You can speak with your healthcare team for more information on clinical trials and if it would be right for you.

Your healthcare team will work with you to create a treatment plan to help manage your health.

Managing your health

  • Kidney Tests
  • Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR)
  • Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)
  • Clinical trials
  • Chronic Kidney Disease
  • Social Determinants of Health and Chronic Kidney Disease

Resources

Question 1 of 4

APOL1 quiz

Question 2 of 4

APOL1 quiz

Question 3 of 4

APOL1 quiz

Question 4 of 4

APOL1 quiz

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