FSGS stands for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. It is a type of kidney disease that causes scarring in the tiny filters of the kidney, which can lead to protein in the urine and loss of kidney function over time.
Focal means only some of the kidney filters are affected.
Segmental means only part of an individual filter is scarred.
Glomerulo refers to the glomeruli, the tiny filters inside your kidneys.
Sclerosis means scarring.
Put together, FSGS means scarring in parts of some kidney filters. That scarring makes it easier for protein to leak out into the urine and harder for the kidneys to do their filtering job.
Some people feel well at first and only find out because a urine test shows protein. Others develop major swelling or see their kidney numbers worsen over time.
This means the disease starts in the kidney filters themselves, without another clear cause found.
This happens when another condition or stress on the kidneys leads to scarring. Examples can include obesity, reduced kidney mass, reflux, past kidney injury, or some infections and medications.
Some people have inherited changes that affect the kidney filters. Genetic testing may be considered in selected cases.
Urine testing to measure protein, including urine albumin or total protein levels
Blood tests to check creatinine, eGFR, albumin, and cholesterol
Blood pressure review and symptom history
Kidney biopsy in many cases, because biopsy helps confirm the diagnosis
Additional workup to look for possible secondary or genetic causes
A biopsy matters because many kidney diseases can cause protein in the urine. Treatment decisions are stronger when the diagnosis is specific.
ACE inhibitors or ARBs are commonly used because they can lower protein in the urine and help protect kidney function.
Diuretics, sodium reduction, and fluid guidance may help if swelling is a major problem.
Some patients with primary FSGS may need steroids or other immune-suppressing medicines. Secondary FSGS is often treated by addressing the underlying stress on the kidneys.
Blood pressure control, medication review, and regular lab follow-up are key. Some patients may also be candidates for other kidney-protective medicines depending on their situation.
With diseases like FSGS, small changes over time matter. Keeping your labs, symptoms, and blood pressure organized makes appointments more useful.
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