Membranous Nephropathy

Membranous nephropathy is a kidney disease in which the membranes of the small filters called glomeruli thicken, which alters their ability to retain proteins. It is one of the causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults.

Common symptoms: swelling in the legs, eyelids, or abdomen, foamy urine due to protein loss, and weight gain from fluid retention.

When should you see a doctor? The appearance of persistent edema or changes in the appearance of the urine are reasons for a kidney evaluation.

Which specialist treats it? The nephrologist —and the pediatric nephrologist when it affects children— studies kidney function; the urologist may collaborate on related aspects. If you recognize these signs, it's a good idea to raise it with one of these professionals.