Saturday, August 22, 2015

Minimal Change Nephropathy

Minimal Change Nephropathy (MCN)

There are a few common questions for MRCP Part 1 and 2 about nephrology, minimal change nephropathy is one of them.

There are a few important facts to remember,

1) Minimal change nephropathy is the commonest cause of nephrotic syndrome in children as well as in adult. Another important cause of nephrotic syndrome in adult is Focal Segmental glomerulosclerosis.

2) Minimal change literally means the kidney biopsy of  MCN will be normal unless your have electron miscroscope which shows efficement of foot processes.

3) More than 90% will respond to steroid.

4) There are a few secondary causes of minimal change nepropathy causing nephrotic syndrome- Gold, penicillamine, tumour etc

If a patient with nephrotic syndrome patient comes in with severe abdominal pain, always think of

1) Renal vein thrombosis
2) Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis