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| Definition: | A disorder of the kidneys that affects the structures (glomeruli) which include small capillaries surrounded by membranes through which the blood is filtered to form urine.
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| Alternative Names: | Minimal change nephrotic syndrome; Nil disease; Lipoid nephrosis; Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome of childhood
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: | Minimal change disease is one cause of nephrotic syndrome. It is named because under a light microscope the glomeruli appear totally normal. Under an electron microscope characteristic changes in the glomeruli can be seen, including the fusion of a portion of the epithelial layer.
Minimal change disease is most common in children but occasionally occurs 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 renal failure.
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Review Date: 12/2/2001
Reviewed By: Andrew Koren, M.D., Department of Nephrology, NYU-Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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