Kidney Disorder Overview

Renal failure and proteinuria are closely associated conditions commonly linked to kidney disorders, particularly in nephrotic syndrome, where they frequently co-occur.

Proteinuria, which is the presence of an abnormal amount of protein in the urine, serves as a hallmark of nephrotic syndrome. Normally, proteins are too large to pass through the kidney’s filtering system, but when there is kidney damage, proteins can leak into the urine. This symptom is indicative of significant damage to the glomeruli, the kidney's filtering units.

Renal failure refers to the kidneys' inability to adequately filter waste products from the blood, leading to the accumulation of toxins and waste materials. This condition can be either acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (progressive and long-term). Chronic kidney damage, which can be a consequence of ongoing nephrotic syndrome, might eventually lead to renal failure if not effectively managed.

Nephrotic syndrome itself is characterized by severe proteinuria, low blood protein levels (hypoalbuminemia), high cholesterol levels (hyperlipidemia), and swelling (edema), particularly in the ankles and feet. While not a primary symptom of nephrotic syndrome, high blood pressure (hypertension) often develops in association with kidney diseases. Hypertension in the context of kidney disorders can be a complicating factor, as it further strains the kidneys, exacerbating damage and potentially accelerating the progression toward renal failure. Hypertension can also arise as a result of fluid retention and hormonal imbalances due to impaired kidney function.

In managing nephrotic syndrome and preventing renal failure, it is crucial to treat the underlying causes, which may involve immunosuppressive therapies if driven by autoimmune processes, and supportive treatments such as diuretics for swelling, and medications to manage blood pressure and cholesterol. Addressing hypertension is particularly important, as controlling blood pressure can help mitigate further kidney damage and reduce the risk of additional complications.

Reference: "Prevalence of Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome Stages in US Adults, 2011-2020"

Excerpt: Cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic (CKM) diseases are pathophysiologically interrelated,¹ have affected more than 25% of US adults between 2015-2020,² and were the leading causes of death in 2021.³ In 2023, the American Heart Association introduced a novel staging construct, termed CKM syndrome,¹ to enhance multidisciplinary approaches to prevention, risk stratification, and management of these disorders. Based on risk factors and established disease, the stages range from 0 (no risk factors) to 4 (established cardiovascular disease [CVD]).