Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder. It affects people of any age; nephrotic syndrome usually occurs in children between 2 and 9 years of age.
Nephrotic syndrome in children leads to injury of glomeruli (tiny filters in kidneys). Due to this protein leaks out of the blood into the urine and causes edema (swelling) in legs, arms, face, and belly.
Symptoms:
Each child displays the symptoms differently, which include:
- Fatigue (Tiredness)
- Loss or decreased appetite
- Facial swelling
- Fluid build-up in the body
- Dull hair
- Food allergy
- Foamy urine
- Pain in the abdomen (belly)
- Pale fingernail beds
Causes:
Nephrotic syndrome occurs when tiny filters in the kidneys called glomeruli leak too much protein into urine. It can happen at any age but is most common in kids 1–6 years old. It affects boys more than girls.
Diagnosis:
Your child’s doctor will perform a thorough physical examination, medical history and suggest the below laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis of Nephrotic syndrome:
- Urine tests: Tests to check for protein
- Blood tests: Tests to check the levels of cholesterol and a special blood protein called albumin
- Renal ultrasound: A noninvasive test in which a transducer is passed over the kidney producing sound waves which bounce off the kidney, transmitting a picture of the organ on a video screen. The test is used to determine the size and shape of the kidney and to detect a mass, kidney stone, cyst, or other obstruction or abnormalities.
- Renal biopsy: A procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from the kidney through a needle. The tissue is sent for special testing to determine the specific disease.
Treatment:
Nephrotic syndrome is almost always treatable, but the treatment depends on the cause. The treatment’s goal is to stop the loss of protein in the urine and increase the amount of urine passed from the body. Your doctor probably will prescribe a drug called prednisone for your child. Most children get better on this drug.
