PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the main cause of nephrotic syndrome?

1. Chronic hypertension

2. Diabetes Mellitus

3. Glomerulonephritis

4. Systemic lupus erythematosus

The correct answer is: Glomerulonephritis

Nephrotic syndrome is primarily characterized by significant proteinuria, low serum albumin levels, and edema. The main underlying cause of nephrotic syndrome can often be traced back to various forms of glomerulonephritis, particularly those that involve damage to the glomerular filtration barrier, allowing for excessive protein leakage into the urine. Glomerulonephritis encompasses a variety of inflammatory conditions that affect the kidneys and is one of the most prevalent causes of nephrotic syndrome in both children and adults. It can be further categorized into primary causes, such as minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, or membranous nephropathy, and secondary causes related to infections, autoimmune diseases, or other systemic conditions. While chronic hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and systemic lupus erythematosus can contribute to kidney disease and even lead to nephrotic syndrome in certain contexts, they are not as direct and frequent causes as glomerulonephritis. For instance, while diabetes can lead to diabetic nephropathy, which ultimately may present with nephrotic syndrome, it is not the primary cause compared to the direct impacts of glomerular inflammation and damage seen in glomerulonephritis. Therefore