The cause of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is usually unknown. A small number of cases result from reflux nephropathy . The condition affects both children and adults. Males are affected slightly more often than females, and it also occurs more frequently in African-Americans.

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis causes about 10 - 15% of all cases of nephrotic syndrome .

• Foamy urine
• Swelling of the body, called generalized edema , from retained fluids
• Weight gain
• Poor appetite

There are no strong clues to the diagnosis on physical examination, other than evidence of edema and elevated blood pressure . Signs of kidney renal failure and associated fluid overload may develop as the illness gets worse.

Tests may include:

• Urinalysis
• Kidney biopsy
• Immunofluorescence microscopy test

The goal of treatment is to control the symptoms associated with nephrotic syndrome and chronic kidney failure.

See also:

• Nephrotic syndrome
• Chronic kidney failure

In general, treatments may include:

• Low or moderate protein diet (1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day)
• Low fat diet
• Salt-free diet
• Fluid restriction
• Powerful anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce the immune response
• Medicines to treat high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol , and high triglyceride levels
• Antibiotics to control infections
• Vitamin D supplementation
• Dialysis
• Kidney transplantation

See also: Kidney disease - diet

Over half of all persons with focal or segmental glomerulosclerosis develop chronic kidney failure within 10 years.

• Chronic kidney failure
• End-stage kidney disease
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Malnutrition
• Infection

You should call your doctor if symptoms develop, especially if there is fever , pain with urination , or decreased urine output .

No prevention is known.