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    4. A to Z

    Nephrotic syndrome

    Nephrotic syndrome is a condition that causes the kidneys to leak large amounts of protein into the urine. This can lead to a range of problems, including swelling of body tissues and a greater chance of catching infections.

    About nephrotic syndrome

    Although nephrotic syndrome can affect people of any age, it's usually first diagnosed in children aged between two and five years old. It affects more boys than girls.

    Symptoms of nephrotic syndrome 

    Symptoms of nephrotic syndrome include:

    • severe swelling (oedema), particularly around the eyes, ankles and feet
    • foamy urine -  because of high levels of protein being passed into the urine (pee) sometimes it can cause it to become frothy/ foamy
    • weight gain, due to excess fluid retention
    • tiredness

    When to see your GP

    You should see your GP if you have the symptoms associated with nephrotic syndrome. It can usually be diagnosed with investigations that your GP can arrange for you.

    Your GP will also probably refer you to a specialist for further investigation.

    Problems caused by nephrotic syndrome

    The problems caused by the condition include:

    • blood clots 
    • infections
    • loss of vitamin D leading to bone disease
    • high cholesterol (hyperlipidaemia)
    • acute renal failure

    Blood clots

    Important proteins that help to prevent the blood clotting can be passed in the urine. This can increase the risk of potentially serious blood clots. During a relapse, the blood also becomes more concentrated, which can lead to clotting.

    Infections

    People with nephrotic syndrome are prone to infection, due to loss of proteins that help fight them, such as IgG, and because of the immune system not working as well as usual, so infections need to be treated early and with strong antibiotics.

    Nephrotic syndrome in children

    Most children with nephrotic syndrome have times when their symptoms are under control (remission), followed by times when symptoms return (relapses).

    In most cases, relapses become less frequent as they get older and often stop by their late teens.

    • Nephrotic syndrome in children

    Nephrotic syndrome in adults

    In adults, the outlook is more variable, depending on the cause.

    Remission occurs less often but does occur.

    In adults, there is an increased risk of mortality due to the complications of infection and clots (thromboembolism).

    Causes of nephrotic syndrome

    Nephrotic syndrome can sometimes occur as a result of a kidney problem or another condition, including:

    • glomerulosclerosis – when the inside of the kidney becomes scarred
    • glomerulonephritis – inflammation inside the kidney
    • an infection – such as HIV or hepatitis 
    • lupus
    • diabetes
    • amyloidosis
    • sickle cell anaemia
    • in very rare cases, certain types of cancer, such as leukaemia, multiple myeloma or lymphoma

    It has also been found to sometimes be linked to taking some medication, including:

    • gold
    • some antibiotics
    • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
    • penicillamine
    • lithium

    Managing nephrotic syndrome

    As there are many causes of nephrotic syndrome, your treatment will depend on what is causing the condition. If it is possible to treat the cause, suitable treatment will be recommended.

    Treatment may be given to control the symptoms, such as steroid medication to reduce inflammation or diuretics, ('water tablets') to reduce the fluid build-up.

    The health professional looking after your care will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment options.

    More useful links

    • How to use your health services

    The information on this page has been adapted from original content from the NHS website.

    For further information see terms and conditions.

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