What is Minimal Change Disease?
Minimal Change Disease is a condition characterized by damage to the tiny filters in the kidneys, known as glomeruli. Despite its name, the changes that occur in the kidneys of individuals with MCD are often not visible under a regular microscope, hence the term "minimal change."
This condition is considered idiopathic, meaning its exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve abnormalities in the immune system.
Side Effects of Minimal Change Disease:
The hallmark symptom of Minimal Change Disease is proteinuria, which is the presence of excess protein in the urine. This can lead to edema, or swelling, particularly in the legs, ankles, and around the eyes.
Other symptoms may include fatigue, foamy urine, and a decrease in urine output. In severe cases, MCD can progress to nephrotic syndrome, a condition characterized by high levels of protein in the urine, low levels of protein in the blood, and high cholesterol levels.
How is Minimal Change Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Minimal Change Disease typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and laboratory tests. A urine test will often reveal high levels of protein, while blood tests may show low levels of protein and high cholesterol.
A kidney biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis by examining a small sample of kidney tissue under a microscope.
Potential Treatments of Minimal Change Disease:
The primary goal of treating Minimal Change Disease is to reduce proteinuria and prevent further kidney damage. In Germany, treatment may involve a combination of medications, including corticosteroids such as prednisone, which help to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in the kidneys.
Other medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), may also be prescribed to help control blood pressure and reduce proteinuria.
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