Overview

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is a kidney disorder characterized by scarring in some of the glomeruli, which are the tiny filtering units of the kidneys. The term focal means that only some glomeruli are affected, and segmental means that only part of each affected glomerulus is scarred. Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis can lead to significant protein loss in the urine and may progress to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure if not managed appropriately.

Symptoms

Symptoms of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis often relate to kidney damage and protein loss:

  • Swelling of the legs, ankles, feet, or face

  • Foamy urine due to excess protein

  • Weight gain from fluid retention

  • Fatigue

  • Decreased urine output in advanced stages

  • High blood pressure

Some individuals may have mild symptoms early in the disease.

Causes

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis can develop due to damage to specialized kidney cells called podocytes. It may be classified as primary or secondary:

  • Primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis with no identifiable cause

  • Secondary forms related to obesity, diabetes, infections, reduced kidney mass, or certain medications

  • Genetic mutations affecting kidney structure

  • Viral infections such as HIV

The underlying cause influences disease progression and treatment response.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase the risk of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis include:

  • Family history of kidney disease

  • Obesity

  • Diabetes

  • Infections affecting the kidneys

  • Use of certain drugs that affect kidney function

  • African ancestry

These factors may increase susceptibility to kidney injury.

Complications

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis can lead to serious kidney-related complications:

  • Nephrotic syndrome

  • Chronic kidney disease

  • End-stage kidney failure

  • Increased risk of blood clots

  • High cholesterol levels

  • Increased risk of infections

Early diagnosis and treatment help slow disease progression.

Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, but kidney health can be protected:

  • Managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels

  • Maintaining a healthy body weight

  • Avoiding unnecessary use of kidney-harming medications

  • Treating underlying conditions promptly

  • Regular monitoring for individuals at risk of kidney disease

Ongoing medical care is essential to reduce complications and preserve kidney function.

Request an appointment

Advertisement

Advertisement