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Nephrotic Syndrome

Definition

It is basically a group of systems that together give a clear picture of non-functional kidney. In this kidney disorder, there is too much protein excretion in the urine. This condition for a long time eventually leads to a low level of protein, high levels of fat/cholesterol in the blood.  

Causes of Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome occurs when there is a problem with your kidney filtration system. When kidney filters don’t work properly, it leads to symptoms of nephrotic syndrome. Some diseases affect the kidney and are called primary causes of nephrotic syndrome. Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is the most common primary cause. 

Whereas, people who have nephrotic syndrome have secondary causes like diabetes in children, diabetic kidney disease, membranous nephropathy, systemic lupus erythematosus, amyloidosis.

Risk Of Having Nephrotic Syndrome

Risk of having nephrotic syndrome is unpredictable. Anyone can have this kidney disorder. However, it is more common in men than in women. Children at the age of 2 and 6 are at high risk of developing this disease. 

Signs and Symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome 

• Anorexia
• Blurred Vision
• Edema
• Fatigueness
• Foamy Urine
• Hematuria
• Proteinuria
• Pale Skin
• Hyperlipidemia
• Vomiting
• Weight Gain

Investigations for Nephrotic Syndrome

Tests and procedures used to diagnose nephrotic syndrome include:

Urine Tests: You may be asked to give a urine sample over 24 hours for an accurate measure of the protein in your urine.

Blood Tests: You may be asked to give a blood sample and if you are having nephrotic syndrome, there will be a low level of albumin protein in your blood. This loss in blood protein results in increased cholesterol and triglycerides level in the blood. 

Sample Kidney Tissue For Testing: Doctor may recommend a kidney biopsy. In this procedure, a special needle is inserted through your skin into your kidney. The tissue is collected and sent to the lab for testing. Other tests include

• Heat Coagulation Test
• 24 Hours Total Urinary Protein
• Serum Total Protein
• Serum C3 Level, Creatinine, Urea
• Renal Biopsy 

Complications of Nephrotic Syndrome

• Acute Renal Failure
• Hyper Lipidemia
• Hypovolemia
• Infections
• Malnutrition
• Thromboembolism

Treatment of Nephrotic Syndrome

Treatment of nephrotic syndrome involves the treatment of an underlying medical condition. Medicines may include blood pressure medications, water pills, cholesterol-reducing medications, blood thinners, and immune system-suppressing medications. 

Often, treatment is done with Steroid, Oral Prednisolone. Oral Prednisolone 60mg/m2/day (2mg/kg/day) daily in 2 - 3 divided doses for 6 weeks followed by 40mg/m2/day(or1.5mg/kg/day) as  single morning dose on alternate day for 6 weeks. Don’t forget to take some serious general care. 

Possible Complications of Nephrotic Syndrome

• Blood clots
• High blood cholesterol
• Poor nutrition
• High Blood Pressure
• Acute Kidney failure
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Infections

Contact Doctor At Right Time

If you have signs and symptoms that cause concern, start by seeing your primary care doctor. Go to a nephrologist if your doctor suspects kidney problems. Book an appointment by registering at Global Patient Transfer platform. 

What you can do is be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions, write down symptoms you are experiencing, make a list of all medications, or write down questions to ask.