Nephrotic Syndrome and The Latino Community
Function of the Kidneys
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatments
Nephrotic Syndrome and Latinos
Links
INTRODUCTION
The worldwide web has little or no information regarding Nephrotic syndrome (also called nephrosis) and the Latino community. This site has been designed to provide information on this particular disease and discuss how it relates to or affects Latinos. Nephrotic syndrome is a disease of the renal system, particularly the kidney. It is characterized by excess amounts of protein in the urine, low levels of protein in the blood, excess fat in the blood, and the swelling of body tissue.1 This condition is ultimately caused by the leakage of protein in the urine, but may be caused by many medical conditions.
FUNCTION OF THE KIDNEYS
Each individual has two kidneys. They are located in the back of the upper abdomen at either side of the spinal column. The kidneys are highly vascular (system of channels for conveyance of body fluids) organs. The kidneys monitor the amount of salts and chemicals, which the body needs to function properly. Their production and secretion of various hormones aid in red blood cell formation and assist in maintaining normal blood pressure. The kidneys also produce the active form of vitamin D, which helps to keep bones strong.2 They each filter about 1700 liters of blood per day and concentrates fluid and waste products into about one liter of urine a day. That is why kidneys receive more exposure to toxic substances in the body than any other organ, making them prone to injury from toxic substances. More information about kidneys, its functions, and kidney failures can be found on the National Kidney Foundation home page.
CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
Nephrotic syndrome is hereditary and may also occur because of many medical conditions. Some of these include infection of the renal system or kidneys, systemic lupus, diabetes mellitus, or disorders of the kidney such as segmental glomerulosclerosis, and minimal change disease. The most common cause of Nephrotic syndrome among adults is diabetes mellitus (More information on causes and treatments of diabetes mellitus can be found on the