Causes of nephrotic syndrome in children

The occurrence of nephrotic syndrome in children may be related to genetic factors, environmental factors, physiological abnormalities and certain underlying diseases. Understanding the specific causes can help better prevent and manage this disease.

1) Genetic factors

Some children with nephrotic syndrome may be related to genetics, especially families with a similar history of the disease need to pay more attention. Certain gene mutations can cause abnormal glomerular function, thus inducing the disease. It is recommended that if there is a family history of the disease, urine and kidney function tests should be performed regularly after the child is born to detect problems early.

2) Environmental factors

Environmental factors, including viral infections (such as herpes virus, influenza virus, etc.) and bacterial infections (such as group A hemolytic streptococci), may be the cause of nephrotic syndrome. These pathogens can damage the immune system and thus damage kidney function. Parents should pay attention to their children's hygiene habits, reduce the chance of contact with crowded people, and vaccinate them in time.

3) Physiological factors

Children's immune systems are not yet fully mature, so they are more likely to suffer kidney damage due to immune abnormalities. Immune disorders can increase the permeability of the glomerular basement membrane, causing a large amount of protein to be lost in the urine. Improving children's nutritional intake and ensuring adequate rest and moderate exercise can help enhance immune function.

4) Traumatic factors

Although uncommon, severe physical injuries may damage the kidney structure and induce syndrome, such as severe impact on the kidney in a car accident. In such cases, parents need to cultivate their children's safety awareness and strengthen daily care.

5) Pathological factors

Pathological changes in certain diseases such as Henoch-Schonlein purpura and lupus nephritis may further develop into nephrotic syndrome. Chronic diseases such as diabetes may also damage the glomeruli and cause children to become ill. It is particularly important to detect and actively treat the primary disease as early as possible. Parents who find abnormal urine or frequent edema in their children should take their children to the doctor in time for a comprehensive examination.

Parents need to pay close attention to the early manifestations of nephrotic syndrome in children in their daily lives, and maintain a healthy lifestyle and good disease prevention and control behaviors. If a child has abnormal edema, fatigue, or abnormal urine, he or she should seek medical attention in time to avoid delaying the disease. Through multiple measures such as genetic screening, immune function assessment, and environmental health improvement, it is expected to effectively reduce the risk of nephrotic syndrome in children.