Kulsum International Hospital

Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Signs
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Congenital nephrotic syndrome is usually inherited. Babies lose protein in their urine, which leads to swelling and other problems. Specialist kidney care is needed.

Signs

  • Swelling of the face, abdomen and legs
  • Poor feeding and slow growth
  • Foamy urine
  • Frequent infections

Causes and risk factors

Most cases are caused by inherited gene changes. Some are caused by infections in the mother during pregnancy.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis uses urine and blood tests, genetic tests and sometimes a kidney biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment includes protein replacement, medicines to reduce protein loss, prevention of infection and blood clots, and good nutrition. Some children eventually need dialysis and a kidney transplant.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor promptly if a baby develops swelling or is not feeding or growing well.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome.

Dr. Sameeh Javed Khan
Nephrology & Dialysis

Dr. Sameeh Javed Khan

Consultant Nephrologist

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Prof. Dr. Sajid Rafiq Abbasi
Nephrology & Dialysis

Prof. Dr. Sajid Rafiq Abbasi

Consultant Nephrologist

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