Nephrotic syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome

Follows substantial loss of protein in urine

Aetiology:
Diabetic nephropathy; glomerulonephritis; amyloidosis

Clinical features:
Gradual onset of peripheral oedema – also swelling of eyelids; froth in urine from protein;

Complications of nephrotic syndrome:
• oedema – mostly in lower limb (due to sodium retention, hypoalbuminaemia)
• hypercoaguability (may be due to renal loss of inhibitors of coagulation)
• hypercholesterolaemia
• infection
• thromboembolism

Management:
Identify and treat cause; symptomatic relief; prevention of complications; fluid restriction; salt restricted diet; frusemide