Minimal change disease

Alternative names:

idiopathic nephrotic syndrome of childhood; lipoid nephrosis; minimal change nephrotic syndrome; nil disease

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.

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. It affects about 2 out of 10,000 people. The cause is unknown, but the risk is increased if there is a history of immune disorders, recent immunization, or bee sting.

Minimal change disease does not reduce the amount of urine produced. It does not progress to renal failure.