Nephrotic syndrome

• Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder that causes excess protein to be excreted in the urine. Many diseases can cause damage to the glomerular capillary filtration membrane, leading to nephrotic syndrome. About two thirds of adults and most children suffer from primary nephrotic syndrome, which includes primary glomerulonephropathy, acute glomerulonephritis, chronic glomerulonephritis, and rapidly progressive nephritis.

• Nephrotic syndrome usually occurs when the clusters of small blood vessels in the kidneys that filter waste and excess water from the blood are damaged. This condition can cause swelling, especially in the feet and ankles, and increase the risk of other health problems.

• Effective treatment of nephrotic syndrome requires prompt diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional. Treatment options may include medications to treat the underlying disease and control symptoms, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes to improve kidney function. In some cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary.

• Symptoms: Edema (especially around eyes, ankles and feet), foamy urine, weight gain, fatigue, loss of appetite

• Diseases that may cause nephrotic syndrome: diabetes, minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, membranous nephropathy, systemic Lupus erythematosus, amyloidosis.