How to Diagnose Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic Syndrome (NS) is a nonspecific disorder in which the kidneys are damaged, causing them to leak large amount of protein from the blood into the urine (>3.5g/d). In clinic, it can be divided into primary Nephrotic Syndrome and secondary Nephrotic Syndrome. Then how to diagnose Nephrotic Syndrome? You can find the answer in the following text.

Ⅰ. Health history

The doctor will ask about patient's medical history, through which he can gather more data about the symptoms, prior history or family history of allergy or related diseases. Generally, a detailed and precise history gives definite intimation to the diagnosis.

Ⅱ. Physical examination

More than 95% of patients with Nephrotic Syndrome have edema. Generalized edema is dependent and pitting in character. In children with marked ascites, mechanical restriction of breathing may be present, and the child may have fast and shallow breathing. Hypertension may appear in majority of Nephrotic Syndrome patients. Besides, other signs may also include a concurrent upper respiratory tract infection, abdominal tenderness, etc.

Ⅲ. Medical tests

Tests and procedures used to diagnose Nephrotic Syndrome include:

● Urinalysis

A urinalysis can reveal abnormalities in the urine, such as large amounts of protein, is you have Nephrotic Syndrome. In order to determine the exact amount of proteins in the urine, a 24-hour quantitative test may be ordered.

● Blood tests

A blood test often shows low albumin (hypoalbuminemia) specifically and often, decreased levels of blood protein overall. Loss of albumin is often associated with elevated blood cholesterol and blood triglycerides. The doctor may take a blood sample to see how well the kidneys are removing wastes. If the blood contains high levels of creatinine and urea, some kidney damage may have already occurred.

● Kidney biopsy

Your doctor usually perform with a long needle passes through the skin after the patient lies flat on his stomach. Then the doctor will use an ultrasound scan to find out exactly where the kidneys are and where to insert the needle. The sample is then examined under the microscope and it may take several days before the answer is available.