Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis

Alternative names:

focal and segmental hyalinosis; focal glomerulosclerosis; focal sclerosis with hyalinosis; segmental glomerulosclerosis

Definition:

A kidney disorder involving formation of scar tissue in some of the glomeruli.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is usually unknown. A minority of cases result from reflux nephropathy. Some (but not all) of the glomeruli become scarred. It affects about 1 out of 10,000 people, both children and adults. Men are affected slightly more often than women. It can occur in children.

The main result of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is nephrotic syndrome. It causes about 10 to 15% of cases of nephrotic syndrome. Protein is persistently excreted in the urine, especially urine albumin, . Most cases will progress to chronic renal failure.

Although the disorder seems to be immune-system related, response to corticosteroid or immunosuppressive medications is inconsistent.