DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Back to Globe
Nephrologic Disease

Nephrotic Syndrome

HIGH SEVERITY

A clinical syndrome characterized by massive proteinuria (>3.5g/day), hypoalbuminemia, edema, and hyperlipidemia. Not a single disease but a manifestation of various glomerular disorders including minimal change disease, FSGS, membranous nephropathy, and diabetic nephropathy.

Global Affected

5.0M

Countries

17

Symptoms

Severe edema (periorbital, peripheral, ascites)
Foamy urine
Fatigue
Weight gain
Anorexia
Increased infection risk
Hypercoagulability (clot risk)
Dyspnea (pleural effusion)

Treatment Options

Corticosteroids
ACE inhibitors/ARBs
Diuretics
Albumin infusion
Statins
Anticoagulation
Immunosuppressants
Treat underlying cause

Risk Factors

1Diabetes mellitus
2Autoimmune diseases
3Infections (HIV, hepatitis B/C, malaria)
4Certain cancers
5Medications (NSAIDs, lithium)
6Genetic factors

Diagnostic Methods

  • 124-hour urine protein
  • 2Spot urine protein/creatinine ratio
  • 3Serum albumin
  • 4Lipid panel
  • 5Kidney biopsy
  • 6Glucose testing
  • 7Hepatitis/HIV screening

Prognosis

Highly variable; depends on underlying cause. Minimal change: excellent. FSGS: more guarded. Diabetic nephropathy: progressive. Complications include infections, thrombosis, and cardiovascular disease.

Prevention

  • Control diabetes
  • Avoid nephrotoxic drugs
  • Treat infections promptly
  • Vaccinations (pneumococcal, flu)
  • Regular monitoring

Research Status

Treatment depends on underlying cause. Corticosteroids for minimal change and some other types. ACE inhibitors/ARBs for proteinuria. Diuretics and albumin for edema. Anticoagulation when indicated.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilIndiaChinaNigeriaSouth AfricaBangladeshPakistanMexico

Sources

  • https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/nephrotic
  • https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/nephrotic-syndrome-adults
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534232

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.