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Minimal Change Disease
Alternate Names : Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome of Childhood, Lipoid Nephrosis, Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome, Nil Disease
Definition
Minimal change disease is a kidney disorder. Each kidney is made of more than a million units called nephrons. Each nephron has a tuft of blood vessels called a glomerulus, which is surrounded by a Bowman's Capsule. Together, these structures filter blood and form urine.
Minimal change disease is one cause of nephrotic syndrome. It is named "minimal change" because the nephrons appear totally normal under a light microscope. The condition is only seen using an electron microscope, which reveals changes in the Bowman's Capsule in the nephrons. Urine tests also show high protein levels.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Minimal change disease is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children. It is also frequently seen in adults. The cause is unknown, but the disease may be preceded by viral infection, allergic reactions, or recent immunizations.
Minimal change disease does not reduce the amount of urine produced. It rarely progresses to kidney failure.
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• Definition
• Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Symptoms & Signs
• Prevention
• Diagnosis & Tests
• Treatment
• Prognosis
• Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Acute Kidney Failure
• Nephrotic Syndrome
Tests & Exams
• Immunofluorescence
• Renal Biopsy
Review Date : 11/1/2003
Reviewed By : Irfan A. Agha, M.D., Department of Medicine, Renal Division, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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