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Schematic Diagram of the Pathophysiology of Nephrotic Syndrome

Damage to the glomerular
filtering membrane
Defect in permeability of
membranes (increased pore size
and effacement)
Massive proteinuria (>3.5
per 24hr period)
Loss of antithrombin III
and protein S and C
Loss of
immunoglobulin G
in the urine Hypoalbuminemia
a
Hypercoagulation
state
Decreased oncotic
pressure
Foamy urine
Increased
risk for
infection
Salt and water retention;
movement of fluids from
intravascular to interstitial
Hepatic
lipoprotein
synthesis
Edema
Primary NS
(Idiopathic)
Secondary NS
Weight gain
Hyperlipidemia
Increased
risk for
cardiovascul
ar diseases