What is a primary cause of nephrotic syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome is primarily characterized by increased proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema, which result from damage to the glomeruli, the filtering units of the kidneys. Glomerular damage leads to a breakdown in the normal barrier function that prevents protein from leaking into the urine. When this barrier is compromised, large amounts of protein are excreted, leading to the symptoms associated with nephrotic syndrome.

Understanding the types of conditions that cause glomerular damage can further clarify the primary cause of nephrotic syndrome. This damage can occur due to various diseases, including minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, and membranous nephropathy, among others. Each of these conditions disrupts the structural integrity of the glomeruli, resulting in the classic signs of nephrotic syndrome.

Obesity, hypertension, and dehydration can influence renal health and function but are not primary causes of nephrotic syndrome itself. While obesity and hypertension may lead to chronic kidney disease or exacerbate existing conditions, they do not directly cause the glomerular damage that is the hallmark of nephrotic syndrome. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine or acute kidney issues but does not relate to the underlying glomer