Nephrology MCQ
Question: A 35-year-old man presents with edema, frothy urine, and fatigue. Laboratory investigations show proteinuria >3.5 g/day, hypoalbuminemia, and hyperlipidemia. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Answer: C. Nephrotic syndrome
Explanation:
Nephrotic syndrome is defined by proteinuria >3.5 g/day, hypoalbuminemia, edema, and often hyperlipidemia. Clinical features include generalized edema (periorbital first), frothy urine, and fatigue. Common causes: minimal change disease (children), FSGS, membranous nephropathy (adults). Nephritic syndrome shows hematuria, hypertension, and mild proteinuria. Management includes treating underlying cause, salt restriction, diuretics, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, and immunosuppressive therapy for selected causes.
Key Laboratory Findings:
| Parameter | Finding |
|---|---|
| Proteinuria | >3.5 g/day |
| Serum Albumin | Low (<3 .0="" dl="" g="" td=""> 3> |
| Serum Lipids | High (hyperlipidemia) |
| Edema | Generalized, periorbital first |
References:
Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st Ed, Ch. 226;
UpToDate: Nephrotic syndrome in adults.
Comments
Post a Comment