CME: Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults: Presentation, Diagnosis, Therapy

CME: Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults: Presentation, Diagnosis, Therapy Abstract. The nephrotic syndrome is defined by renal protein loss with hypalbuminaemia and edema. Hyperlipoproteinemia and thrombophilia are not diagnostic criteria, but are frequently associated conditions. Patients with nephrotic syndrome are at higher risk for infections. Primary causes of a nephrotic syndrome are differentiated from secondary glomerulopathies due to systemic diseases. To confirm the diagnosis and for prognostic reasons, a kidney biopsy is performed in most cases. Steroids and other immunosuppressive agents are frontline therapies in primary forms. Secondary forms are treated by addressing the underlying disease. Therapeutic cornerstones include an adequate RAAS blockade with ACE inhibitors or AT-II receptor blockers. Loop diuretics are used to control edemas. In addition, the need for anticoagulation and statin therapy must be evaluated.