Nephrotic Syndrome

In addition to a Reference medical history and physical exam, other tests to diagnose nephrotic syndrome include:

• A Reference 24-hour urine collection, which measures the total amount of protein in the urine collected over 24 hours. You will be diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome if you have more than 3 Reference grams Opens New Window of protein in your urine.
• Reference Blood test for albumin. Lower levels of albumin in the blood can cause fluid to collect in the ankles, lungs, or abdomen.
• Reference Creatinine and creatinine clearance. Results of these tests give information on how well your kidneys are working.
• Reference Blood profile tests to measure the amount of protein, cholesterol, and sugar (glucose) in the blood.
• Reference Kidney ultrasound to look at the kidneys. This exam can rule out other causes of your symptoms.

You may need other tests before treatment for nephrotic syndrome begins. These include:

• A test for Reference varicella (chickenpox) antibodies Opens New Window.
• A Reference bone density scan.

In adults, testing usually includes:

• Reference Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP).
• Reference Antinuclear antibodies (ANA).
• Reference Antibody tests for systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Reference C3 and C4 complement, proteins normally found in the blood.
• Tests for Reference hepatitis B, Reference hepatitis C, and Reference HIV.

Unless nephrotic syndrome is clearly caused by diabetes, a Reference kidney biopsy is usually done to find the cause. Children do not usually have a biopsy.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.