General Information About Nephrotic Syndrome
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a kidney disease that occurs when the structure of the kidney filters (glomeruli) is disrupted, causing their pores to enlarge and leak proteins into the urine—which should normally remain in the blood—acting just like a colander.
In children, it is mostly caused by Minimal Change Disease, where the kidney reacts autoimmune-wise; whereas in adults, uncontrolled diabetes, lupus, amyloidosis, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), which disrupts kidney tissue, are the primary causes.
The 'albumin' protein excreted in the urine acts as a sponge that holds water inside the blood vessels. When albumin decreases, the water in the blood vessels leaks outward into tissues, forming severe, soft pitting edema, particularly in the eyelids, legs, ankles, and peritoneum.
Due to the excessive protein leakage, the patient's urine takes on an extremely frothy appearance when voided into the toilet, resembling dish soap foam or beer foam.
Diagnosis is established when protein excretion over 3.5 grams is detected in a 24-hour urine collection (proteinuria), alongside very low albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia) and elevated cholesterol in blood tests. A Kidney Biopsy is requested to visualize the exact underlying cellular damage.
To eliminate fluid from the body and stabilize blood pressure, potent diuretics and nephroprotective medications are prescribed. High-dose corticosteroids (steroids) and, when necessary, immunosuppressive drugs are utilized to repair the damage in the kidney (close the pores). Dietary salt and fluid intake are strictly restricted.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
