Etymed
membranous nephropathy
Definition
A kidney disease characterized by the formation of membrane-like deposits in the glomeruli, leading to proteinuria and nephrotic syndrome
Clinical context
A 35-year-old man presents with bilateral lower extremity edema and frothy urine for the past 2 months. Physical examination reveals pitting edema and mild hypertension. Laboratory studies show heavy proteinuria (4.5 g/24 hours) with low serum albumin and elevated cholesterol. Renal biopsy demonstrates subepithelial immune deposits on electron microscopy. This patient has membranous nephropathy, the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults.
Mnemonic
MENBRANE - Membrane-like deposits, Nephrotic syndrome, Antibodies against target antigen, Often idiopathic
These morphemes also unlock…
- membran/o — membrane
- -ous — pertaining to; characterized by
- nephr/o — kidney
- -pathy — disease; suffering