Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of glomerulonephritis?

The correct choice indicates that not all cases of glomerulonephritis produce symptoms. Glomerulonephritis can manifest in a variety of ways, and in some instances, individuals may remain asymptomatic even in the presence of renal dysfunction. This asymptomatic presentation can occur particularly in mild cases or in the initial stages of the disease. Consequently, it is possible for glomerulonephritis to be present without significant symptoms, which indicates that this statement does not accurately describe the condition.

The other characteristics mentioned are indeed true for glomerulonephritis. Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is a classic symptom associated with this condition due to inflammation of the glomeruli. Autoimmune processes, such as in lupus nephritis, can trigger glomerulonephritis, as can infectious agents, like in post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Hence, these other aspects accurately reflect the characteristics of glomerulonephritis and affirm that sometimes the disease can present without noticeable symptoms.