FSGS (focal segmental glomerulosclerosis) is a disease that affects the
kidney’s filtering system causing scarring and loss of large amounts of protein
in the urine. It is a cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and adolescents,
as well as an important cause of kidney failure in adults. It accounts for a
sixth of nephrotic syndrome.
It is normally only diagnosed after a biopsy test of the kidney. What you see
under the microscope is that the “glomeruli”, which are the tiny structures
which filter the blood to make urine, are scarred.
A person suffering from FSGS may experience edema,
hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia and hypertension. In adults it may also present
as kidney failure and proteinuria.
Is FSGS curable?
The out come is very variable, and you will need to ask your specialist how
thins are likely to be in your case. FSGS may continue for many years, requiring
only regular check-ups with blood tests. In some cases, FSGS may go away. When a
person get fluid retention with ankle swelling, it is an indication of worsen
kidney disease. A lot of people with FSGS may develop end-stage renal failure
and receive dialysis or transplantation.
Besides the symptoms, a lot of complications draw patient’s attention. High
blood pressure may develop. This damages the kidneys and puts strain on the
heart and the rest of the circulation. Therefore, high blood pressure should be
treated vigorously. High cholesterol level may occur, requiring diet change and
sometimes lowering drugs as well.
“Is FSGS Curable?” All in all, there is not a unique answer to this question.
If you are diagnosed with FSGS, we are here to help you!
