Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder in which the kidneys excrete (leak) too much protein in urine.
Nephrotic syndrome is usually caused by damage to the small filters in the kidneys, called nephrons, which filter waste and excess water from the blood. It causes swelling (edema) in the feet, face and sometimes the whole body and can increase the risk of infections and blood clots.
Treatment for nephrotic syndrome includes treating the underlying condition that is causing it. The condition may require medications and dietary changes to prevent these and other complications of nephrotic syndrome.
Disease progression depends on many factors. Some factors which increase the risk are:
NOTE: The nephrons filter the blood as it passes through the kidneys. Of the 180 liters of filtrate per day, the kidneys reabsorb up to 98% back, while excreting the remaining toxic wastes. Healthy nephrons hold back the protein (mainly albumin) — which is needed to maintain the right amount of fluid in the body — from seeping into the urine. When damaged, these nephrons leak high amounts of protein into the urine, leading to nephrotic syndrome.
Nephrotic syndrome progresses in stages marked by the level of protein leakage, kidney function, and severity of swelling and other complications. Early stages may show no symptoms, but as the condition advances, it can lead to significant fluid buildup, an increased risk of blood clots, and, if untreated, eventual kidney failure.
Nephrotic syndrome can result from various conditions that damage the nephrons, including:
Treatment aims to manage the underlying causes, control symptoms, and prevent complications. Medications commonly used include:
If you’re experiencing symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome or have been diagnosed with a related issue, it’s essential to seek specialized care.
Dr. Kamal Kiran offers expert treatment and personalized care plans to help manage your condition and improve your quality of life.Trust his expertise for top-notch nephrology services tailored to your unique needs.
Managing nephrotic syndrome involves medication, dietary changes, and regular monitoring of kidney function. Key management strategies include:
Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder that can also affect children, causing the kidneys to lose too much protein into the urine. In children, this syndrome is most often due to a condition called minimal change disease (MCD). In MCD, the kidney tissue appears normal when viewed under a microscope, yet the kidneys' function is impaired, leading to protein loss in the urine.
Nephrotic Syndrome Symptoms in Children
Nephrotic syndrome in children shares some symptoms with adults, though signs may be more intense. Common symptoms in children include:
Nephrotic Syndrome Causes in Children
The most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children is minimal change disease (MCD). Occasionally, this condition may be triggered by infections, vaccinations, or allergens, though the exact cause often remains unknown. In rare cases, other conditions, such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), can also lead to nephrotic syndrome in children.
Possible complications of nephrotic syndrome include:
The kidneys typically filter out waste while retaining essential proteins. In nephrotic syndrome, damage to the glomeruli—the filtering units in the nephrons—causes proteins like albumin to leak into the urine. This leads to a series of complications:
Possible complications of nephrotic syndrome include:
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