chronic glomerulonephritis, a noninfectious disease of the glomeruli of the kidney characterized by proteinuria, hematuria, edema, and decreased production of urine. Of unknown cause, it is asymptomatic for years. The symptoms develop slowly, and the disease progresses to kidney failure. Transplantation and dialysis are the only treatments available. See also postinfectious glomerulonephritis, subacute glomerulonephritis, uremia.
