Which are the symptoms of Minimal change disease?

Symptoms of Minimal Change Disease

Minimal Change Disease (MCD) is a kidney disorder that primarily affects children but can also occur in adults. It is characterized by damage to the glomeruli, which are tiny blood vessels in the kidneys responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood. MCD is called "minimal change" because the damage to the glomeruli is not visible under a microscope, making it difficult to diagnose without further testing.

1. Edema: One of the most common symptoms of MCD is edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the body tissues. Edema often presents as swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, and sometimes the face. The swelling may be more noticeable in the morning and can worsen throughout the day.

2. Proteinuria: Another hallmark symptom of MCD is proteinuria, which is the presence of excess protein in the urine. Normally, the kidneys filter out waste products while retaining essential proteins in the blood. However, in MCD, the damaged glomeruli allow proteins, particularly albumin, to leak into the urine. This can lead to a condition called nephrotic syndrome.

3. Nephrotic Syndrome: Nephrotic syndrome is a collection of symptoms that occur due to excessive protein loss in the urine. In addition to proteinuria, other symptoms of nephrotic syndrome include low levels of albumin in the blood (hypoalbuminemia), high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, and elevated blood pressure. These symptoms can contribute to further complications such as increased susceptibility to infections and blood clotting disorders.

4. Fatigue and Weakness: MCD can cause fatigue and weakness due to the loss of essential proteins and nutrients in the urine. The body may not receive an adequate supply of nutrients, leading to feelings of tiredness and reduced energy levels.

5. Foamy Urine: The presence of excess protein in the urine can cause it to appear foamy or frothy. This is often noticed by individuals with MCD and can be a visual indicator of proteinuria.

6. Decreased Appetite: Children with MCD may experience a decreased appetite, leading to weight loss or poor growth. This can be attributed to the overall impact of the disease on the body's nutritional status.

7. Swelling around the Eyes: In some cases, swelling may be particularly noticeable around the eyes, giving the appearance of puffy or swollen eyelids. This symptom is known as periorbital edema and is commonly seen in children with MCD.

8. Frequent Infections: Due to the loss of immunoglobulins (antibodies) in the urine, individuals with MCD may experience an increased susceptibility to infections. This can manifest as recurrent respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, or skin infections.

9. Blood Clots: In rare cases, MCD can lead to blood clotting disorders, increasing the risk of developing blood clots in veins or arteries. This can result in complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.

10. High Blood Pressure: Some individuals with MCD may develop high blood pressure (hypertension) as a result of the kidney damage. Hypertension can further contribute to the progression of kidney disease and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.

If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. While MCD can be a chronic condition, it is generally responsive to treatment, and early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.