What condition is characterized by edema and proteinuria?

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by a combination of edema (swelling often seen in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes) and significant proteinuria, which is the presence of excess protein in the urine. This condition results from damage to the glomeruli, the structures in the kidneys that filter waste and excess substances from the blood. When the glomeruli are damaged, they allow protein, which is normally retained in the bloodstream, to leak into the urine. The loss of this protein can lead to low levels of albumin in the blood, causing fluid to accumulate in tissues and resulting in edema.

In children, nephrotic syndrome can often present itself with these symptoms and may also include elevated cholesterol levels and changes in kidney function. The presence of these hallmark symptoms helps differentiate nephrotic syndrome from other conditions, such as nephritis, which typically involves inflammation of the kidneys and may not primarily present with proteinuria or edema. Similarly, celiac disease primarily affects the digestive system and does not typically manifest with the renal symptoms characteristic of nephrotic syndrome. Hydronephrosis, an abnormal dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces due to urine outflow obstruction, may lead to kidney damage but does not primarily cause protein