Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Analyses of Proteinuria, Renal Infiltration of Leukocytes, and Renal Deposition of Proteins in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr Mice
Published on: June 8, 2022
Minimal Change Disease with Progression to Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis: Support for an Immune-Mediated Disease
Ritika Muthyala1, Abhinav R Thummala2, Michael Neinast3
1Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine University of North Texas Health Science Center.
Abstract:
Minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are among the most common causes of primary nephrotic syndrome in adults. A 32-year-old female with diagnosed MCD, characterized by podocyte effacement and immunoglobulin G (IgG) dusting on initial biopsy, developed worsening renal function unresponsive to first-line treatment with corticosteroids. Persistence of symptoms led to repeat biopsy, which identified collapsing FSGS that was effectively treated with plasmapheresis (PLEX). This case explores the hypothesis that MCD and FSGS lie along a continuous spectrum of podocyte injury and emphasizes the need for early consideration of PLEX in the management of nephrotic syndrome associated with IgG dusting.
Insights
Minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) may represent a spectrum of podocyte injury. Early plasmapheresis (PLEX) may be crucial for nephrotic syndrome with IgG deposits.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pathology
Background:
- Minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are leading causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults.
- Podocyte injury is central to the pathogenesis of both conditions.
Related Concept Videos
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction
Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
Tumor Progression
Colon cancer is one of the best-documented examples of tumor progression. Early mutation in the APC gene in colon cells causes a small growth on the colon wall called a polyp. With time, this polyp grows into a benign, pre-cancerous tumor. Further...

