Which statement correctly describes minimal change disease in children?

Which statement correctly describes minimal change disease in children?

• A. It is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and is typically steroid-responsive with selective albuminuria.
• B. It is usually steroid-resistant and associated with FSGS.
• C. It presents with non-selective proteinuria and hypertension.
• D. It is best treated with calcium supplements.

Answer: (A)

Minimal change disease is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and is known for its dramatic, rapid response to steroids. Kids typically present with swelling, low serum albumin, high cholesterol, and heavy proteinuria, but renal function remains preserved. A key feature is selective albuminuria—loss of albumin predominates while larger proteins like immunoglobulins are less affected—which reflects a specific pattern of glomerular permeability change at the podocytes. Blood pressure is usually normal, not hypertensive, helping distinguish it from other nephrotic disorders. The appropriate treatment is corticosteroids, not calcium supplements, making that steroid-responsive, selectively protein-losing profile the best-supported description of the condition.

Minimal change disease is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and is known for its dramatic, rapid response to steroids. Kids typically present with swelling, low serum albumin, high cholesterol, and heavy proteinuria, but renal function remains preserved. A key feature is selective albuminuria—loss of albumin predominates while larger proteins like immunoglobulins are less affected—which reflects a specific pattern of glomerular permeability change at the podocytes. Blood pressure is usually normal, not hypertensive, helping distinguish it from other nephrotic disorders. The appropriate treatment is corticosteroids, not calcium supplements, making that steroid-responsive, selectively protein-losing profile the best-supported description of the condition.