What is Nephrotic syndrome?
Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by the following symptoms that result from changes that occur to the
small, functional structures in the kidneys, such as:
very high levels of protein in the urine
low levels of protein in the blood due to its loss in the urine
tissue swelling all over the body (edema) especially in the abdomen (ascites)
high cholesterol levels in the blood
What are the different types of Nephrotic syndrome?
The type of Nephrotic syndrome that is most common in children is called idiopathic Nephrotic syndrome.
Idiopathic means that a disease occurs with no known cause. The most common type of idiopathic
Nephrotic syndrome is called minimal-change Nephrotic syndrome (MCNS). Idiopathic Nephrotic syndrome
is more common in boys than girls.
With MCNS, the child usually has relapses of the illness, but the disease can usually be managed and
prognosis is good. In rare cases, a child may develop kidney failure that requires dialysis.
There is a rare Nephrotic syndrome present in the first week of life called "congenital Nephrotic syndrome."
Congenital Nephrotic syndrome is inherited by an autosomal recessive gene, which means that males and
females are equally affected, and the child inherited one copy of the gene from each parent, who are
carriers. The chance for carrier parents to have a child with congenital Nephrotic syndrome is one in four,
or 25 percent, with each pregnancy. The outcome for this type of Nephrotic syndrome is extremely poor.
What are the symptoms of Nephrotic syndrome?
The following are the most common symptoms of Nephrotic syndrome. However, each child may
experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
fatigue and malaise
decreased appetite
weight gain and facial swelling
abdominal swelling or pain
foamy urine
fluid accumulation in the body spaces (edema)
pale fingernail beds
dull hair
ears cartilage may feel less firm
food intolerances or allergies
The symptoms of Nephrotic syndrome may resemble other conditions and medical problems. Always
consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
How is Nephrotic syndrome diagnosed?
In addition to a thorough physical examination and complete medical history, your child's physician may
recommend the following diagnostic tests:
urine tests (to check for protein)
blood tests (to check the levels of cholesterol and a special blood protein called albumin)
renal ultrasound - a non-invasive test in which a transducer is passed over the kidney producing sound
waves which bounce off of the kidney, transmitting a picture of the organ on a video screen. The test is
used to determine the size and shape of the kidney, and to detect a mass, kidney stone, cyst, or other
obstruction or abnormalities.
renal biopsy - a procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from the kidney through a needle. The
tissue is sent for special testing to determine the specific disease.
Treatment for Nephrotic syndrome:
Specific treatment for Nephrotic syndrome will be determined by your child's physician based on:
your child's age, overall health, and medical history
the extent of the disease
your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference
During the initial episode of Nephrotic syndrome, your child may require hospitalization. He/She may need
to be monitored if the edema is severe or if he/she has blood pressure and/or breathing problems.
Medications may be required to treat initial symptoms and during relapses, including:
corticosteroids
immunosuppressive drug therapy
diuretics (to reduce the edema)
intravenous (IV) albumin - a blood protein that can be administered to replace the low levels.
A special diet that restricts salt and has other specifications
The medications used to treat Nephrotic syndrome weaken the immune system so your child should not
receive live vaccines. If your child has been exposed to chickenpox and has not already had the vaccine,
the vaccine may be recommended.
Long-term outlook for Nephrotic syndrome:
Relapses do occur throughout childhood. However, once a child reaches puberty, the disease usually
stays in remission (complete or partial absence of symptoms). It is uncommon for symptoms to return
during adulthood, however, it is possible.
Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by the following symptoms that result from changes that occur to the
small, functional structures in the kidneys, such as:
very high levels of protein in the urine
low levels of protein in the blood due to its loss in the urine
tissue swelling all over the body (edema) especially in the abdomen (ascites)
high cholesterol levels in the blood
What are the different types of Nephrotic syndrome?
The type of Nephrotic syndrome that is most common in children is called idiopathic Nephrotic syndrome.
Idiopathic means that a disease occurs with no known cause. The most common type of idiopathic
Nephrotic syndrome is called minimal-change Nephrotic syndrome (MCNS). Idiopathic Nephrotic syndrome
is more common in boys than girls.
With MCNS, the child usually has relapses of the illness, but the disease can usually be managed and
prognosis is good. In rare cases, a child may develop kidney failure that requires dialysis.
There is a rare Nephrotic syndrome present in the first week of life called "congenital Nephrotic syndrome."
Congenital Nephrotic syndrome is inherited by an autosomal recessive gene, which means that males and
females are equally affected, and the child inherited one copy of the gene from each parent, who are
carriers. The chance for carrier parents to have a child with congenital Nephrotic syndrome is one in four,
or 25 percent, with each pregnancy. The outcome for this type of Nephrotic syndrome is extremely poor.
What are the symptoms of Nephrotic syndrome?
The following are the most common symptoms of Nephrotic syndrome. However, each child may
experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
fatigue and malaise
decreased appetite
weight gain and facial swelling
abdominal swelling or pain
foamy urine
fluid accumulation in the body spaces (edema)
pale fingernail beds
dull hair
ears cartilage may feel less firm
food intolerances or allergies
The symptoms of Nephrotic syndrome may resemble other conditions and medical problems. Always
consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
How is Nephrotic syndrome diagnosed?
In addition to a thorough physical examination and complete medical history, your child's physician may
recommend the following diagnostic tests:
urine tests (to check for protein)
blood tests (to check the levels of cholesterol and a special blood protein called albumin)
renal ultrasound - a non-invasive test in which a transducer is passed over the kidney producing sound
waves which bounce off of the kidney, transmitting a picture of the organ on a video screen. The test is
used to determine the size and shape of the kidney, and to detect a mass, kidney stone, cyst, or other
obstruction or abnormalities.
renal biopsy - a procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken from the kidney through a needle. The
tissue is sent for special testing to determine the specific disease.
Treatment for Nephrotic syndrome:
Specific treatment for Nephrotic syndrome will be determined by your child's physician based on:
your child's age, overall health, and medical history
the extent of the disease
your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference
During the initial episode of Nephrotic syndrome, your child may require hospitalization. He/She may need
to be monitored if the edema is severe or if he/she has blood pressure and/or breathing problems.
Medications may be required to treat initial symptoms and during relapses, including:
corticosteroids
immunosuppressive drug therapy
diuretics (to reduce the edema)
intravenous (IV) albumin - a blood protein that can be administered to replace the low levels.
A special diet that restricts salt and has other specifications
The medications used to treat Nephrotic syndrome weaken the immune system so your child should not
receive live vaccines. If your child has been exposed to chickenpox and has not already had the vaccine,
the vaccine may be recommended.
Long-term outlook for Nephrotic syndrome:
Relapses do occur throughout childhood. However, once a child reaches puberty, the disease usually
stays in remission (complete or partial absence of symptoms). It is uncommon for symptoms to return
during adulthood, however, it is possible.
 |  |  |  |  |
Info About Inter cranial Bleed/Stroke still to come
What is kidney failure?
Kidney failure refers to temporary or permanent damage to the kidneys that results in loss of normal
kidney function. There are two different types of kidney failure - acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure
has an abrupt onset and is potentially reversible. Chronic failure progresses slowly over at least three
months and can lead to permanent kidney failure. The causes, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes of
acute and chronic are different.
Conditions that may lead to acute or chronic kidney failure may include, but are not limited to, the
following:
Acute Kidney Failure
Decreased blood flow to the kidneys for a period of time. This may occur from blood loss or shock.
An obstruction or blockage along the urinary tract.
Hemolytic uremic syndrome - usually caused by an E. coli infection, kidney failure develops as a result of
obstruction to the small functional structures and vessels inside the kidney.
Ingestion of certain medications that may cause toxicity to the kidneys.
Glomerulonephritis - a type of kidney disease that involves glomeruli. During glomerulonephritis, the
glomeruli become inflamed and impair the kidney's ability to filter urine.
Any condition that may impair the flow of oxygen and blood to the kidneys such as cardiac arrest.
Chronic Kidney Failure
A prolonged urinary tract obstruction or blockage.
Alport syndrome - an inherited disorder that causes deafness, progressive kidney damage, and eye
defects.
Nephrotic syndrome - a condition that has several different causes. Nephrotic syndrome is characterized
by protein in the urine, low protein in the blood, high cholesterol levels, and tissue swelling.
Polycystic kidney disease - a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts filled with
fluid in the kidneys.
Cystinosis - an inherited disorder whereby the kidneys have excessive excretion or certain amino acids.
This leads to severe kidney stones
What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
The symptoms for acute and chronic kidney failure may be different. The following are the most common
symptoms of acute and chronic kidney failure. However, each child may experience symptoms differently.
Symptoms may include:
Acute:
(Symptoms of acute kidney failure depend largely on the underlying cause.)
hemorrhage
fever
rash
bloody diarrhea
severe vomiting
abdominal pain
no urine output or high urine output
history of recent infection
pale skin
history of taking certain medications
history of trauma
swelling of the tissues
inflammation of the eye
detectable abdominal mass
exposure to heavy metals or toxic solvents
Chronic:
poor appetite
vomiting
bone pain
headache
stunted growth
malaise
high urine output or no urine output
recurrent urinary tract infections
urinary incontinence
pale skin
bad breath
hearing deficit
detectable abdominal mass
tissue swelling
irritability
poor muscle tone
change in mental alertness
The symptoms of acute and chronic kidney failure may resemble other conditions or medical problems.
Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
How is kidney failure diagnosed?
In addition to a physical examination and complete medical history, your child's physician may order the
following diagnostic tests:
7 blood tests - to determine blood cell counts, electrolyte levels, and kidney function
7 urine tests - to measure waste materials rid from the body as well as body chemical changes.
7 chest x-ray - a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of
internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film.
7 bone scan - a nuclear imaging method to evaluate any degenerative and/or arthritic changes in the
joints; to detect bone diseases and tumors; to determine the cause of bone pain or inflammation.
7 renal ultrasound (Also called sonography.) - a non-invasive test in which a transducer is passed over
the kidney producing sound waves which bounce off the kidney, transmitting a picture of the organ on a
video screen. The test is used to determine the size and shape of the kidney, and to detect a mass,
kidney stone, cyst, or other obstruction or abnormalities.
7 electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) - a test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows
abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias), detects heart muscle damage, and can demonstrate
dangerous accumulations of toxic materials.
7 renal biopsy - a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from
the body for examination under a microscope.
Treatment for acute and chronic kidney failure:
Specific treatment for kidney failure will be determined by your child's physician based on:
your child's age, overall health, and medical history
the extent of the disease
the type of disease (acute or chronic)
your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference
Treatment of acute kidney failure depends on the underlying cause. Treatment may include:
hospitalization
administration of intravenous (IV) fluids in large volumes (to replace depleted blood volume)
diuretic therapy or medications (to increase urine output)
close monitoring of important electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and calcium
medications (to control blood pressure)
specific diet requirements
In some cases, children may develop severe electrolyte disturbances and toxic levels of certain waste
products normally eliminated by the kidneys. Children may also develop fluid overload. Dialysis may be
indicated in these cases.
Treatment of chronic kidney failure depends on the degree of kidney function that remains. Treatment
may include:
medications (to help with growth, prevent bone density loss, and/or to treat anemia)
diuretic therapy or medications (to increase urine output)
specific diet restrictions
dialysis
kidney transplantation
Most children with kidney failure are followed by a pediatrician and a nephrologist (a physician who
specializes in disorders or diseases of the kidneys
This information is from http://www.childrenshospital.org/
Kidney failure refers to temporary or permanent damage to the kidneys that results in loss of normal
kidney function. There are two different types of kidney failure - acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure
has an abrupt onset and is potentially reversible. Chronic failure progresses slowly over at least three
months and can lead to permanent kidney failure. The causes, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes of
acute and chronic are different.
Conditions that may lead to acute or chronic kidney failure may include, but are not limited to, the
following:
Acute Kidney Failure
Decreased blood flow to the kidneys for a period of time. This may occur from blood loss or shock.
An obstruction or blockage along the urinary tract.
Hemolytic uremic syndrome - usually caused by an E. coli infection, kidney failure develops as a result of
obstruction to the small functional structures and vessels inside the kidney.
Ingestion of certain medications that may cause toxicity to the kidneys.
Glomerulonephritis - a type of kidney disease that involves glomeruli. During glomerulonephritis, the
glomeruli become inflamed and impair the kidney's ability to filter urine.
Any condition that may impair the flow of oxygen and blood to the kidneys such as cardiac arrest.
Chronic Kidney Failure
A prolonged urinary tract obstruction or blockage.
Alport syndrome - an inherited disorder that causes deafness, progressive kidney damage, and eye
defects.
Nephrotic syndrome - a condition that has several different causes. Nephrotic syndrome is characterized
by protein in the urine, low protein in the blood, high cholesterol levels, and tissue swelling.
Polycystic kidney disease - a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts filled with
fluid in the kidneys.
Cystinosis - an inherited disorder whereby the kidneys have excessive excretion or certain amino acids.
This leads to severe kidney stones
What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
The symptoms for acute and chronic kidney failure may be different. The following are the most common
symptoms of acute and chronic kidney failure. However, each child may experience symptoms differently.
Symptoms may include:
Acute:
(Symptoms of acute kidney failure depend largely on the underlying cause.)
hemorrhage
fever
rash
bloody diarrhea
severe vomiting
abdominal pain
no urine output or high urine output
history of recent infection
pale skin
history of taking certain medications
history of trauma
swelling of the tissues
inflammation of the eye
detectable abdominal mass
exposure to heavy metals or toxic solvents
Chronic:
poor appetite
vomiting
bone pain
headache
stunted growth
malaise
high urine output or no urine output
recurrent urinary tract infections
urinary incontinence
pale skin
bad breath
hearing deficit
detectable abdominal mass
tissue swelling
irritability
poor muscle tone
change in mental alertness
The symptoms of acute and chronic kidney failure may resemble other conditions or medical problems.
Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
How is kidney failure diagnosed?
In addition to a physical examination and complete medical history, your child's physician may order the
following diagnostic tests:
7 blood tests - to determine blood cell counts, electrolyte levels, and kidney function
7 urine tests - to measure waste materials rid from the body as well as body chemical changes.
7 chest x-ray - a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of
internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film.
7 bone scan - a nuclear imaging method to evaluate any degenerative and/or arthritic changes in the
joints; to detect bone diseases and tumors; to determine the cause of bone pain or inflammation.
7 renal ultrasound (Also called sonography.) - a non-invasive test in which a transducer is passed over
the kidney producing sound waves which bounce off the kidney, transmitting a picture of the organ on a
video screen. The test is used to determine the size and shape of the kidney, and to detect a mass,
kidney stone, cyst, or other obstruction or abnormalities.
7 electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) - a test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows
abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias or dysrhythmias), detects heart muscle damage, and can demonstrate
dangerous accumulations of toxic materials.
7 renal biopsy - a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from
the body for examination under a microscope.
Treatment for acute and chronic kidney failure:
Specific treatment for kidney failure will be determined by your child's physician based on:
your child's age, overall health, and medical history
the extent of the disease
the type of disease (acute or chronic)
your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference
Treatment of acute kidney failure depends on the underlying cause. Treatment may include:
hospitalization
administration of intravenous (IV) fluids in large volumes (to replace depleted blood volume)
diuretic therapy or medications (to increase urine output)
close monitoring of important electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and calcium
medications (to control blood pressure)
specific diet requirements
In some cases, children may develop severe electrolyte disturbances and toxic levels of certain waste
products normally eliminated by the kidneys. Children may also develop fluid overload. Dialysis may be
indicated in these cases.
Treatment of chronic kidney failure depends on the degree of kidney function that remains. Treatment
may include:
medications (to help with growth, prevent bone density loss, and/or to treat anemia)
diuretic therapy or medications (to increase urine output)
specific diet restrictions
dialysis
kidney transplantation
Most children with kidney failure are followed by a pediatrician and a nephrologist (a physician who
specializes in disorders or diseases of the kidneys
This information is from http://www.childrenshospital.org/
| Donations can be made by using Pay Pal, using any Bank Of America Branch and depositing to The Caitlyn MacPhee Medical Fund, by Check which can be mailed to The UPS Store at 400 West Cumming Park, Suite 1725, Woburn, MA 01801 or you may Contact Us by Phone or E-Mail |
 |
Pay Pal Donation Button
The Caitlyn MacPhee Medical Fund (A Kidney For Caitlyn) was set up and organized by many friends and family united in
support of Caitlyn MacPhee and her family. Caitlyn MacPhee is a 4 year old girl who has been battling Nephrotic Syndrome (FSGS)
since she was 2 years old. A Kidney for Caitlyn has been set up to help The MacPhee family pay for the expenses associated with a
kidney transplant and long term recovery.
Caitlyn was diagnosed with Nephrotic syndrome on Christmas Eve of 2006. Nephrotic Syndrome is a nonspecific disorder in
which the kidneys are damaged, causing them to leak large amounts of protein from the blood into the urine. Ultimately Caitlyn’s
Kidney’s have gone into End Stage Renal Disease or Chronic Kidney Failure. Caitlyn was hospitalized and put onto Dialysis during
Christmas of 2008. Currently Caitlyn is on Peritoneal Dialysis. She is hooked up to a machine for 12 hours every night. Caitlyn’s
health was starting to turn around until 3/25/2009.On March 25th 2009 Caitlyn had a random bleed in the left Thalamus of her
brain. (Very similar to a stroke) Caitlyn is currently paralyzed on the right side of her body, she has some trouble with speech and she
has neurological damage that causes her a lot of pain that may last long term. Caitlyn is currently at Children's Hospital in Boston
MA. When she leaves she will be attending rehabilitation hospital daily. Caitlyn will be in a wheel chair for some time and may never
get walk again.
We currently have several comics from the Boston area who are putting on a great comedy show at The Sons Of Italy in Woburn
MA located at 168 Lexington St. We are asking anyone and everyone who can for your support. There are many things that you
can do to help. We are accepting cash donations which can be made payable to The Caitlyn MacPhee Medical Fund. You can mail
your donation to 400 W. Cummings Park, Suite 1725 Woburn, MA 01801 or make a deposit at any Bank of America. If you
wish to donate something that we can raffle you can also send it to or drop it off at the UPS Store located at 400 W. Cummings
Park, Suite 1725 Woburn MA 01801. You may also E-Mail us at vernon@akidneyforcaitlyn.com or call us at 781-922-0069 and we
will arrange to pick up the donation.
We realize that with the current economic situation that times are very tight for everyone and we have all been forced to give up
many of the amenities that we enjoy so much. So in advance please accept our sincerest gratitude for your time and your most
generous donation. God Bless and Good Health to your entire family. We hope to see you at A Kidney for Caitlyn Comedy
Fundraiser.
Sincerely,
Friends and Family of Caitlyn MacPhee
support of Caitlyn MacPhee and her family. Caitlyn MacPhee is a 4 year old girl who has been battling Nephrotic Syndrome (FSGS)
since she was 2 years old. A Kidney for Caitlyn has been set up to help The MacPhee family pay for the expenses associated with a
kidney transplant and long term recovery.
Caitlyn was diagnosed with Nephrotic syndrome on Christmas Eve of 2006. Nephrotic Syndrome is a nonspecific disorder in
which the kidneys are damaged, causing them to leak large amounts of protein from the blood into the urine. Ultimately Caitlyn’s
Kidney’s have gone into End Stage Renal Disease or Chronic Kidney Failure. Caitlyn was hospitalized and put onto Dialysis during
Christmas of 2008. Currently Caitlyn is on Peritoneal Dialysis. She is hooked up to a machine for 12 hours every night. Caitlyn’s
health was starting to turn around until 3/25/2009.On March 25th 2009 Caitlyn had a random bleed in the left Thalamus of her
brain. (Very similar to a stroke) Caitlyn is currently paralyzed on the right side of her body, she has some trouble with speech and she
has neurological damage that causes her a lot of pain that may last long term. Caitlyn is currently at Children's Hospital in Boston
MA. When she leaves she will be attending rehabilitation hospital daily. Caitlyn will be in a wheel chair for some time and may never
get walk again.
We currently have several comics from the Boston area who are putting on a great comedy show at The Sons Of Italy in Woburn
MA located at 168 Lexington St. We are asking anyone and everyone who can for your support. There are many things that you
can do to help. We are accepting cash donations which can be made payable to The Caitlyn MacPhee Medical Fund. You can mail
your donation to 400 W. Cummings Park, Suite 1725 Woburn, MA 01801 or make a deposit at any Bank of America. If you
wish to donate something that we can raffle you can also send it to or drop it off at the UPS Store located at 400 W. Cummings
Park, Suite 1725 Woburn MA 01801. You may also E-Mail us at vernon@akidneyforcaitlyn.com or call us at 781-922-0069 and we
will arrange to pick up the donation.
We realize that with the current economic situation that times are very tight for everyone and we have all been forced to give up
many of the amenities that we enjoy so much. So in advance please accept our sincerest gratitude for your time and your most
generous donation. God Bless and Good Health to your entire family. We hope to see you at A Kidney for Caitlyn Comedy
Fundraiser.
Sincerely,
Friends and Family of Caitlyn MacPhee