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Nephrotic syndrome
Diabetic glomerulosclerosis (1) HE.jpg
Microscopic image of diabetic glomerulosclerosis,
the main cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults.
SpecialtyNephrology
SymptomsSwelling, weight gain, feeling tired, foamy urine
ComplicationsBlood clots, infections, high blood pressure
CausesFocal segmental glomerulosclerosis,
membranous nephropathy,
minimal change disease, diabetes, lupus
Diagnostic methodUrine testing, kidney biopsy
Differential diagnosisNephritic syndrome, cirrhosis, severe malnutrition
TreatmentDirected at underlying cause
Frequency5 per 100,000 per year

Nephrotic syndrome is a collection of symptoms due to kidney damage. This includes protein in the urine, low blood albumin levels, high blood lipids, and significant swelling. Other symptoms may include weight gain, feeling tired, and foamy urine. Complications may include blood clots, infections, and high blood pressure.

Causes include a number of kidney diseases such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, membranous nephropathy, and minimal change disease. It may also occur as a complication of diabetes or lupus. The underlying mechanism typically involves damage to the glomeruli of the kidney. Diagnosis is typically based on urine testing and sometimes a kidney biopsy. It differs from nephritic syndrome in that there are no red blood cells in the urine.

Treatment is directed at the underlying cause. Other efforts include managing high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and infection risk. A low salt diet and limiting fluids is often recommended. About 5 per 100,000 people are affected per year. The usual underlying cause varies between children and adults.

Signs and symptoms