minimal change disease


minimal change disease

 subtle alterations in kidney function demonstrable by clinical albuminuria and the presence of lipid droplets in cells of the proximal tubules; abnormalities of foot processes of the glomerular epithelial cells are present but too subtle to be seen with light microscopy. It is seen primarily in children under 6 but sometimes in adults with the nephrotic syndrome and may or may not progress to glomerulosclerosis or glomerulonephritis.

minimal change disease

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome of childhood, lipoid nephrosis, minimal change nephrotic syndrome, nil disease Nephrology A cause of nephrotic syndrome, so named because, by LM, the glomeruli appear normal; by EM, characteristic glomerular changes are seen–eg, fusing of the epithelial layer; MCD is most common in children Etiology Unknown; risk is ↑ in those with immune disorders, recent immunizations, bee stings Prognosis MCD is not linked to oliguria or progressive renal failure. Cf Renal failure.

minimal change disease

The form of nephrotic syndrome most often found in children, in which renal biopsies reveal little if any pathological change under the light microscope. With electron microscopy, effacement of the foot processes of the glomerulus becomes evident. See: nephrotic syndrome