Q 10: Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis for a 41-year-old man who presents with complaints of swollen ankles, marked lower extremity edema, and periorbital swelling, along with a urine dipstick showing 4+ protein but negative for blood and glucose, and a 24-hour urine collection indicating proteinuria of 6 grams per day? (Question Id: 507008)
(Option C) Membranous glomerulonephritis: Membranous glomerulonephritis is a type of glomerular disease characterized by thickening of the glomerular basement membrane due to immune complex deposition. It often presents with nephrotic syndrome, which includes proteinuria, edema, and hypoalbuminemia (low levels of albumin in the blood). The symptoms described in the case, including marked lower extremity edema, periorbital swelling, and significant proteinuria, are consistent with membranous glomerulonephritis. Therefore, this is the most likely diagnosis.
(Option A) Diabetic nephropathy: Diabetic nephropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and is characterized by proteinuria, high blood pressure, and progressive kidney damage. However, in this case, there is no mention of a history of diabetes or elevated blood glucose levels, so this is an unlikely diagnosis.
(Option B) Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis: Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis is a type of glomerulonephritis characterized by immune complex deposition and inflammation in the glomeruli. It typically presents with hematuria (blood in urine) and low levels of proteinuria. In this case, the urine dipstick is negative for blood and positive for protein, and the proteinuria is quite high (6 grams per day), making membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis less likely.
(Option D) Minimal change disease: Minimal change disease is another type of glomerular disease that primarily affects children. It is characterized by the absence of visible changes in the glomeruli under a microscope. It typically presents with nephrotic syndrome and often has a rapid response to corticosteroid therapy. The age of the patient (41 years old) and the absence of mention of any response to corticosteroids make minimal change disease less likely.
(Option E) Berger disease (IgA nephropathy): Berger disease is a type of glomerulonephritis caused by the deposition of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the glomeruli. It commonly presents with episodes of gross hematuria (visible blood in the urine) following upper respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. In this case, there is no mention of hematuria or a history of recent infections, so Berger disease is less likely.
Subject: Internal Medicine
System: Renal System
Topic: Glomerular Diseases
Aspect |
Description |
Definition |
A group of conditions affecting the glomeruli in the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering blood. |
Common Features |
Proteinuria (presence of excess protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), and reduced kidney function. |
Types |
- Diabetic Nephropathy
- Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis
- Membranous Glomerulonephritis
- Minimal Change Disease
- Berger's Disease (IgA Nephropathy)
|
|
Causes |
|
Diabetes |
Infections (e.g., streptococcal infections) |
Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus) |
Medications and toxins |
Symptoms |
|
Swelling (edema) in the legs, face, or abdomen |
High blood pressure (hypertension) |
Fatigue |
Diagnosis |
|
Urine tests (proteinuria, hematuria) |
Blood tests (creatinine, BUN) |
Kidney biopsy (to confirm the type and extent of damage) |
Treatment |
Treatment varies based on the specific type and underlying cause. Common approaches include: |
Blood pressure control |
Medications to reduce proteinuria and inflammation |
Immunosuppressive therapy (in autoimmune cases) |
Dietary and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and protect kidney function. |
Prognosis |
The prognosis depends on the type, stage, and the individual's response to treatment. Some glomerular diseases can progress to end-stage kidney disease if left untreated. |