Nephrotic syndrome

N04.9


DESCRIPTION

Glomerular disease characterised by:

  • severe proteinuria defined as:
    • children: ≥ 3 + proteinuria on dipstick test, or urine protein: creatinine ratio (PCR) ≥ 0.2 g/mmol on spot urine sample
    • adults: ≥ 2.5 g/day, as determined by a spot urine protein measurement, i.e. PCR > 0.25 g/mmol
  • and resultant ‘classic’ clinical picture (not always present) which includes:
    • oedema
    • hypoalbuminaemia
    • hyperlipidaemia

Accurate diagnosis requires a renal biopsy.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

The management of glomerular disease depends on the type/cause of the disease and is individualised, guided by a specialist according to the biopsy result.

REFERRAL

All cases.