Nephrotic Syndrome

Heavy Proteinuria, Hypoalbuminemia, and Edema

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Published: February 1, 2026

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Nephrotic Syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by urinary protein excretion above 3.5 g/day, serum albumin <3 g/dL, generalized edema, and hyperlipidemia.

Primary causes include minimal change disease, FSGS, membranous nephropathy, and MPGN.

Secondary causes encompass diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephritis, amyloidosis, infection-related glomerulonephritis, and malignancy.

Complications include thromboembolism, infection (hypogammaglobulinemia), hyperlipidemia, acute kidney injury, and protein malnutrition.

Symptoms

Generalized edema, especially periorbital, lower extremities, and genital

Foamy urine from massive proteinuria

Weight gain, ascites, or pleural effusion

Fatigue and poor appetite

Susceptibility to infections (pneumonia, cellulitis, SBP)

Thromboembolic complications (DVT, renal vein thrombosis, PE)

Risk Factors

Diabetes mellitus (leading secondary cause in adults)

Systemic lupus erythematosus and autoimmune disease

Hepatitis B, C, HIV, or syphilis infection

Malignancy (solid tumors, lymphoma)

Drugs (NSAIDs, gold, penicillamine, lithium)

Amyloidosis or monoclonal gammopathy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

New-onset generalized edema or persistent foamy urine
Signs of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
Features of infection (fever, abdominal pain, erythema)

Treatment Methods

Identify and treat underlying cause — kidney biopsy guides specific therapy

RAS blockade (ACEi or ARB) with sodium restriction (<2 g/day) for proteinuria

Loop diuretics for edema with careful monitoring of volume status and electrolytes

Statins for hyperlipidemia; anticoagulation prophylaxis if albumin <2.0–2.5 g/dL or thrombotic features

SGLT2 inhibitor to reduce proteinuria and slow CKD progression

Disease-specific immunosuppression (corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, rituximab, cyclophosphamide) based on histology

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.