Nephrotic Syndrome

Overview

Nephrotic Syndrome is a collection of symptoms that indicates kidney damage. It can affect bothchildren and adults. It happens due to increased permeability of the glomerulus leading to loss of proteins from the body.

Signs and Symptoms

Periorbital edema or facial puffiness, Frothy urine, Lethargy or fatigue, Weight gain, Reduced appetite, Leukonychia, Breathlessness

Common Causes

Minimal change disease, Focal segmental glomerulonephritis, Membranous nephropathy, Diabetic nephropathy, Autoimmune disease such as SLE, Infections such as Hepatitis B or HIV, Amyloidosis, Malignancy, Certain drugs

Risk Factors

Certain medications, Medical conditions such as amyloidosis or diabetes, Presence of autoimmune diseases, Infections

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Urine FEME, Urine dipstick, Liver function test, Lipid profile, Renal function, Blood urea and serum creatinine

Treatment and Prevention

No/Low salt diet and normal protein diet, Penicillin prophylaxis, Human albumin, Diuretics, Corticosteroid therapy