An 8 year old boy was seen by his family physician for sudden weight gain.Otherwise,he was completely well.Upon physical examination,the child had obvious severe peripheral oedema (grade 4+).Urinalysis showed a markedly increased protein level,but no RBCs.A few fat droplets were seen in the sediment.A renal biopsy was recommended,and the results are shown in the accompanying photomicrograph.The child eventually recovered completely after several doses of systemic corticosteroids.Which one of the following is the best diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is a classic clinical presentation of minimal change disease,or lipoid nephrosis,so-called because of the lipid often seen in the urine sediment.Biopsy is often unnecessary.Corticosteroid treatment is often curative,although some children recover without treatment.

An 8 Year Old Boy Was Seen by His Family