Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (patient information)

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Overview
What are the symptoms?
What are the causes?
Who is at highest risk?
Diagnosis
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis?
Prevention
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Possible complications
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis On the Web
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Risk calculators and risk factors for Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Raviteja Guddeti, M.B.B.S. [2]

Overview

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is scar tissue that forms in parts of the kidney called glomeruli. The glomeruli serve as filters, helping rid the body of unnecessary or harmful substances. Each kidney has thousands of glomeruli. One glomeruli is called a glomerulus.

"Focal" means that some of the glomeruli become scarred, while others remain normal. "Segmental" means that only part of an individual glomerulus is damaged.

What are the symptoms of Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis?

• Foamy urine (from excess protein in the urine)
• Poor appetite
• Swelling, called generalized edema, from fluids held in the body
• Weight gain