Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is the commonest manifestation of glomerular disease in children. The syndrome is characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, generalized edema, and hyperlipidemia. Although genetic or congenital forms are now well recognized, nephrotic syndrome is largely acquired. The latter form can be idiopathic or primary (the causes are unknown) and secondary (the causes are known renal or non-renal diseases). Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome consists of the following glomerulonephritides: minimal change nephropathy (MCN), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN), mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MesPGN), and membranous nephritis (MN). The etiopathogenesis of nephrotic syndrome has evolved through several hypotheses ranging from immune dysregulation theory and increased glomerular permeability theory to the current concept of podocytopathy. Podocyte injury is now thought to be the basic pathology in the syndrome. The book chapter aims to highlight the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of nephrotic syndrome as a podocytopathy.

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) - characterized by heavy glomerular protein loss (proteinuria), edema, hypoalbuminemia, and hyperlipidemia - has diverse causes and frequently leads to chronic kidney disease. This E-book encompasses articles on a variety of topics in NS, including a historical perspective on understanding and treatment of NS, followed by state-of-the-art reviews of the molecular pathomechanisms, clinical outcomes, as well as current and emerging treatment strategies for NS. We hope that this comprehensive review will help to reduce the gaps between the research and the day-to-day care of patients with NS and inspire new research efforts towards updating and expanding the treatment armamentarium for the future.

Chronic kidney disease is a worldwide disease affecting up to 4% of the population. In many cases, glomerulonephritis is the underlying disease leading to kidney failure. One hallmark of glomerulonephritis is proteinuria, which may in its most severe form lead to nephrotic syndrome. In seven chapters, this book puts light on different aspects related to the pathophysiology and clinical aspects of glomerulonephritis. In addition, chapters dealing with the importance of biomarkers in patients with glomerulonephritis will be beneficial for the open-minded reader. Nevertheless, new insights in renal rehabilitation in patients with chronic kidney disease will be provided.

The podocyte is a key cell that forms the last barrier of the kidney filtration unit. One of the most exciting developments in the field of nephrology in the last decade has been the elucidation of its biology and its role in the pathophysiology of inherited and acquired glomerular disease, termed podocytopathy. In this publication, world-renowned experts summarize the most recent findings and advances in the field: they describe the unique biological features and injury mechanisms of the podocyte, novel techniques used in their study, and diagnosis and potential therapeutic approaches to glomerular diseases. Due to its broad scope, this publication is of great value not only for clinical nephrologists and researchers, but also for students, residents, fellows, and postdocs.

An algorithmic approach to interpreting renal pathology, updated in light of recent advances in understanding and new classification schemes.

Nephrotic Syndrome in Children - ECAB - E-Book