A review of clinical features, pathogenesis, investigation and management of glomerulonephritis (GN). GN can occur as a primary isolated renal disease, as a manifestation of systemic diseases such as vasculitis or lupus, or secondary to drugs, infections or tumours. It is an important cause of morbidity and mortality and a potentially preventable cause of end-stage renal disease; early diagnosis is vital to allow timely referral to specialist units where renal biopsy can be performed. Proteinuria and/or haematuria are typical findings.