Focal segmental glomerulonephritis (FSGS)

Question 1

Focal Segmental Glomerulonephritis: causes

Answer 1

Affects parts (segmental) of some (focal) glomeruli of nephron.

• Foot processes of podocytes damaged: permeable to plasma proteins and lipids
• Proteins, lipids trapped → build up inside glomeruli → hyalinosis -> scar tissue (glomerulosclerosis)

Question 2

Focal Segmental Glomerulonephritis: S, C

Answer 2

• proteinuria

Complication -> kidney failure

Question 3

Focal Segmental Glomerulonephritis: D

Answer 3

• Light microscopy: segmental sclerosis, hyalinosis of glomeruli
• Electron microscope: effacement of foot processes of podocytes
• Immunofluorescence: nonspecific focal deposits of IgM, complement proteins not always seen (sometimes trapped in hyalinosis)

Question 4

Focal Segmental Glomerulonephritis:

Answer 4

• Blood pressure reduction- >ACE inhibitors
• Edema -> Diuretics
• Prednisone/calcineurin inhibitors