**Core Concept**
Glomerulonephritis associated with AIDS is a form of kidney damage caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that compromises the immune system. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the glomeruli, the filtering units of the kidneys. The underlying pathophysiology involves the direct effects of HIV on the renal tissue and the secondary effects of opportunistic infections.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN), a type of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). HIVAN is caused by the direct infection of renal cells by HIV, leading to the production of viral proteins that damage the glomeruli. This results in the characteristic lesions of FSGS, including podocyte injury, mesangial cell proliferation, and glomerular basement membrane thickening.

*Option A: Membranous nephropathy* is incorrect because it is typically associated with autoimmune diseases, infections, and cancers, rather than HIV infection.
*Option B: IgA nephropathy* is incorrect because it is a common cause of glomerulonephritis in the general population, but it is not specifically associated with AIDS.
*Option C: Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis* is incorrect because it is a type of glomerulonephritis caused by a streptococcal infection, which is not related to HIV or AIDS.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
HIVAN is a significant cause of kidney disease in patients with AIDS, and it is often diagnosed incidentally during evaluation for HIV-related complications. Early recognition and treatment of HIVAN can help preserve renal function and prevent progression to end-stage renal disease.

**Correct Answer: C. HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN)**